7 Small Ways I’m Saving Money This Month (Post-Move Edition)
We recently moved into our new home — and while that’s something we’ve been working toward for a long time, the spending that came along with it added up fast. From security deposits and utility set-up fees to “let’s just grab takeout” moments and a few rushed household purchases, our budget definitely needed a reset.
As a bookkeeper, I help clients look at their finances all the time — organizing, adjusting, and making sense of what’s really going on with their money. And still… sometimes my own budget needs a refocus, too. 🙃
Now that we’re settling in, I’ve been looking at ways to slow the financial roll and bring some intention back into our spending. This isn’t about restriction — it’s about being thoughtful. Here are 7 small, simple things I’m doing this month to save money and feel more in control again.
✅ 1. I Called Our Internet Provider
Since we had to set up service in a new area, I took the opportunity to ask about any current promotions. After a 10-minute call, I ended up with a better monthly rate just by being willing to ask.
📞 Try this: Even if you haven’t moved, it’s worth calling your internet provider once or twice a year to ask about updated pricing, customer loyalty programs, or competitor offers. The worst they can say is no — but often, they’ll offer a deal on the spot.
✅ 2. I Paused Some Subscriptions We Weren’t Using
While reviewing our bank account, I noticed a couple of entertainment and app subscriptions we hadn’t touched in weeks. Between the move and daily life, we just weren’t using them — and that’s an easy place to cut spending without feeling it.
💡 Try this: Take 15 minutes to go through your bank statement and look at all your recurring charges. Pick just one subscription to pause or cancel this month. You can always add it back later, but even small cuts like this make a difference.
✅ 3. Pantry + Freezer Week Is ON
Before I head out to restock our new pantry, I’m making it a mission to use what we already have. I took a quick inventory of the freezer and pantry shelves, and I’m building meals around those ingredients first. It feels good to reduce waste and stretch the grocery budget a bit further.
🍲 Try this: Make a short “use what we have” list. Commit to creating 2–3 meals using pantry or freezer items you already own. It’s a great way to be resourceful and creative — and it lightens the load on your next grocery run.
✅ 4. I’m Batching Errands to Save Time and Gas
Living in a more rural area now means running into town takes more time — and more fuel. So I’m planning ahead and grouping errands together instead of heading out every time I think of something.
🚗 Try this: Look ahead at your week and plan one or two “errand days.” Make a list of what you need (groceries, hardware store, packages, etc.) and get it all done in one go. It saves gas, time, and mental energy.
✅ 5. I’m Scheduling 3 No-Spend Days
This one always helps me feel reset and a little more in control. On no-spend days, we don’t buy anything — outside of pre-planned essentials. It forces me to get creative with what we already have and makes those mindless purchases easier to spot.
📆 Try this: Choose 2–3 no-spend days this month. Mark them on your calendar ahead of time. Make sure the fridge is stocked the night before and plan something cozy at home for entertainment. It can actually be fun (especially if you frame it as a challenge).
✅ 6. Grocery List Only – No Extras
I don’t know about you, but I always end up spending more when I shop without a clear list. Lately, I’ve been challenging myself to go to the store with a simple, no-frills list and stick to it. Even skipping just one impulse item (hello, $6 tub of fancy hummus) makes a difference.
📝 Try this: Write your grocery list based on what you actually need this week — not what you “might want to try.” Even doing this for one trip can help curb overbuying.
✅ 7. We’re Delaying Big Purchases — Even the Fun Ones
Yes, I’ve already started a wishlist for the house (rug, storage cabinet, fire pit… I could go on). But instead of buying right away, I’m giving everything a waiting period — and that alone has helped me separate impulse buys from true needs.
⏳ Try this: The next time you want something new, add it to a “Wish List” note on your phone and wait 72 hours. Still love it? Great — check your budget and go for it. But more often than not, the urge passes and you’ll be glad you waited.
💡 Bonus Tip: Be Intentional With Your Essentials
Moving gave me a good excuse to reevaluate some of our household habits. I took a second look at what we’re using in terms of subscriptions, meals, vitamins, and cleaning products.
For example, we now have a septic system, so I wanted a laundry detergent that was more compatible and natural. It wasn’t necessarily cheaper than what I was using before — but I feel better knowing I made a conscious decision, instead of just tossing something in the cart because it was familiar.
🎯 Try this: Look at 1–2 things you use regularly and ask: “Is this still working for us?” You don’t need to change everything at once — just start paying attention.
🛍️ Bonus Tip: Shop Secondhand First
When you do want something new — like a piece of furniture, kids’ gear, or even kitchen stuff — try checking Facebook Marketplace or your local Buy Nothing group first.
I’ve found so many like-new items — furniture, kids gear, kitchen tools — for a fraction of the price (or free!). Over the years, we’ve saved thousands just by making secondhand our first stop.
🔍 Try this: The next time you need something, spend 5 minutes searching local listings before buying new. Even if you don’t find it right away, you’ll train your brain to check secondhand options first.
🌿 Final Thoughts
Whether you’ve just moved, hit a spending wall, or just want to feel more in control of your finances — these small shifts can really add up.
You don’t have to cut out all the joy or live on beans and rice. You just have to start paying attention and making choices that feel aligned with what you value right now.
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