5 Smart Ways to Save Money During Inflation

🔎 Disclosure: Heads up, babe: some links here are affiliate links, which means you might throw a tiny commission my way if you buy (zero extra cost to you). Only things you’d actually use and love get shared on this site.

1. Buy Durable Products That Last Longer

You know that feeling when something breaks right after you buy it?

Yeah… that’s inflation’s favorite prank.

Instead of falling for cheap deals, go for products that actually survive years of family life.

The trick is to think about cost per use, not sticker price.

Here’s how that math works in real life:

  • Invest once, save for years: A $60 stainless-steel pan lasts decades versus replacing a $20 one every year.
  • Pick quality over trends: Skip the cute $10 water bottles and grab one that actually survives the dishwasher.
  • Avoid “fast furniture”: It’s called that because it breaks faster than your toddler can find a permanent marker.
👉 Here's How You'll Do It: Check reviews before buying and choose one higher-quality version of something you use daily. It’ll outlast three cheaper ones.

Make It Easy: Consider this: A cast-iron skillet is a one-time purchase that literally lasts generations.


2. Cut Back on Energy Waste at Home

If your electric bill looks like it’s from a big nail salon, it’s time to intervene.

Energy waste sneaks up on families faster than kids opening snacks right after dinner.

Here’s how you can stop it:

  • Unplug energy vampires: Chargers, consoles, and coffee makers still sip power when off.
  • Switch to LED bulbs: They use up to 75% less energy and last way longer.
  • Use smart plugs: They shut off devices automatically when you forget.
👉 Here's How You'll Do It: Walk through your house tonight and unplug three things that don’t need to stay on. It’s shockingly effective.

Make It Easy: Consider this: A smart power strip automatically cuts phantom power without requiring any action on your part.


3. Buy Family-Size Packs and Freeze Portions

Inflation loves attacking grocery budgets. It’s basically its favorite sport.

Buying in bulk can save serious cash, but only if you actually use what you buy.

Here’s how to make it work:

  • Split and store: Divide bulk items like meat or rice into smaller meal portions before freezing.
  • Label everything: Because no one wants to guess if that’s soup or mystery sauce.
  • Rotate what you freeze: Use the oldest items first to prevent waste.
👉 Here's How You'll Do It: Buy one family-size item this week, portion it into meals, and label each one. It’ll stretch your grocery budget instantly.

Make It Easy: Consider this: A vacuum sealer keeps your frozen food fresher way longer period.


4. Buy Secondhand Kids’ Clothes and Toys

Kids outgrow stuff faster than you can say “new size again?”

Buying secondhand keeps your wallet happy and your closets full of things they’ll outgrow anyway.

Here’s what makes it a no-brainer:

  • Check resale apps and local swaps: You’ll find barely used items for half the price.
  • Focus on quality brands: Some last through multiple kids without looking worn.
  • Resell after use: Sell outgrown clothes to fund the next round. It’s the circle of savings life.
👉 Here's How You'll Do It: Pick one resale app and grab a few staple items instead of buying new this season. You’ll save and declutter later.

Make It Easy: Consider this: A set of fabric storage bins keeps all those hand-me-downs organized by size.


5. Simplify Meals to Save Time and Money

Complicated meal plans look cute on Pinterest, but usually end in takeout and regret.

Simpler meals save you both time and grocery money (plus fewer dirty dishes!).

Here’s how to make it easy without losing flavor:

  • Repeat family favorites: Rotate five go-to meals your family actually eats.
  • Use versatile ingredients: Think rice, eggs, chicken, and veggies that fit multiple recipes.
  • Batch cook once a week: Save leftovers for quick lunches or lazy dinners.
👉 Here's How You'll Do It: Write down five easy meals and buy only what you need for those. You’ll save money and mental energy.

Make It Easy: Consider this: A set of glass meal prep containers keeps your fridge organized and dinner stress-free.


📌 SAVE IT FOR LATER! 📌


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Lily Thompson

Hey, I'm Lily! I'm a mom who's really good at two things: stretching a dollar and talking about stretching a dollar. I created Money Vice after one too many grocery trips where I watched my total climb and thought, "There's gotta be a better way." Spoiler: there is. Think of me as your money-savvy friend who's always got a tip (and coffee in hand).