Stop Paying for These Things to Save Money Now (2024)

Homemade baby food is far cheaper than commercial baby food — and you know exactly what's in it. Youdon't need a gadget designed specifically for making baby food. Just boil or steam whatever produce is in the fridge and blend or mash it up. You may not feel like you have the time or energy while caring for an infant, but try making a big batch and freezing single servings in an ice tray. You may be surprised how easy it is.

Many software programs cost a pretty penny, but there are often open-source alternatives. Rather than keep paying for subscriptions, search online for free software. There are lots of options available at no cost.

Experts agree that extended warranties typically aren't worth the additional cost. Consumer Reportsnotes that products such as appliances rarely break down within the extended warranty period. (There are, however, some folks who should consider the extra coverage.)

Infested with dreaded stinkbugs, spiders, or ants? Save money by forgoing commercial pest control and combatting the bugs using natural remedies. The results can be cheaper, less toxic, and just as effective.

Be sure to review receipts after each purchase. You may spot items that were inadvertently scanned twice, savings or couponsthat weren't credited, or prices that are just plain wrong. Erroneous overcharges happen, so it pays to check — especially before you leave the store or the parking lot.

Warehouse club membership has its perks, but you don't have to join to buy everything sold by Costco and Sam's Club. For one thing, anyone can shop online without being a member (although a nonmember surcharge may apply), the pharmacies are open to non-members, and in many states alcohol can be purchased without paying the membership fee.

Is there a bigger waste of money than bottled water? Consumers spend about 800 times more for it than plain old tap water. Even a filter is cheaperthan plastic bottles over the long term.

PayPal users can avoid fees by requesting money using the "Friends and Family" option. Be aware, however, that a fee-free transaction requires a linked bank account or a PayPal balance. Andsmall businesses found using the feature for commercial purposes may have their accounts suspended.

These policies may seem a good idea (and fairly inexpensive), but chances are you'll never use the insurance — and if you do, a hefty deductible may apply. If paying for phone insurance makes you feel more secure, shop around and get the right package — one that covers accidental damage, including from water. Otherwise, this is an expense you can avoid.

Many popular apps offer a free version that's funded by advertising. But in addition to ads, users often are subjected to offers for in-app purchases, especially in games. Resist the urge to unlock that extra feature. It's useless the moment you move on to the next trendy game.

Many free apps let users read the paper on a tablet or smartphone at no charge. Countless ebooks are also free — and eco-friendly. Although others cost money, the price is typically less than the cost of a paperback. For readers who prefer paper, the local library is the place to seek out information and entertainment.

Cable TV is a luxury, and cutting the cord promises to reduce monthlyspendingdramatically. If you can't live without TV, get your fix for less with the likes of Netflix and Hulu, as well as newcomers such as Disney+ and HBO Max.

After quitting cable, it's easy to turn around and spend that money subscribing to every streaming service out there. Avoid racking up the equivalent of a cable bill — or more — by taking advantage of free channels.

We're all guilty of this one: buying things you never end up using. You probably own plenty of products you shouldn't have bought in the first place — unopened beauty supplies, specialty kitchen tools, and so on. Often you know in your gut when something's just going to collect dust.

Working out at homeis an easy way to stay in shape and ditch the gym, along with the hefty monthly membership fee.

Instead of shelling out tons of cash for gas every month, look for alternative and free (or cheap) means of transportation. Depending on where you liveand whether you need to go to an office to work, public transportation may be an option. (Working from home is a perk more employers have made permanent since the pandemic.)In warmer months, commuters can ride a bike to work.

While each slice of cheese might be the perfect thickness, that convenience costs extra. Buy a block of cheese or meat and slice it yourself. The same goes for precut fruit and vegetables. Theymay save a few minutes in the kitchen, but you can save money if you slice and dice the produce yourself. It will also stay fresh longer.

Before you get an expensive prescription filled, especially if your insurance won't pay the full amount, talk to your doctor about generic options. While your doctor may have a reason to opt for one medication over another, the generic version is often interchangeable with its pricey counterpart, so don't be afraid to ask.

Some are beautiful, others offer a laugh — and almost all end up in the trash, quickly forgotten. Even when you spend time picking one out, it's not the most personal or thoughtful gift. Send an ecard instead, many of which are free, or better yet make a card yourself.

Skip the hefty baggage fees at the airport and fly with an airline that allots free checked luggage. Or learn to pack lightand bring only a carry-on. Tips include rolling clothes instead of folding, and choosing soft-sided luggage that can be squeezed into a baggage sizer or overhead bin.

While a frozen pizza or a heat-and-eat meal will get dinner on the table when you're overwhelmed, making a list of quick and easy recipesyou can whip up in the same length of time is not only doable, it will save your family from eating processed foods. Consider making some big-batch mealsso you always have something on hand and have to cook only once.