12 Things Boomers Did and Still Do That Save Them a Ton of Money – Simple Tips You Can Use Too
Many people wonder how some generations manage to save money more effectively than others. Boomers, for example, have habits that help stretch their dollars in ways you might find useful.
These money saving actions aren’t just part of the past; many boomers continue to use them today, showing you practical ways to keep more cash in your pocket.
Clip coupons from Sunday newspapers
You probably noticed boomers bring home thick stacks of Sunday newspapers. One main reason is the coupons tucked inside. These coupons help you save money on groceries and household items.
Cutting out coupons might seem old-fashioned, but it works. You find discounts that aren’t available online or through apps.
Using these coupons regularly can lower your weekly expenses. It only takes a few minutes to clip the best deals for your shopping list.
By keeping a small organizer for coupons, you stay ready for sales. That way, you get more value each time you shop.
Use cash envelopes for budgeting
Using cash envelopes can help you control your spending. You allocate a set amount of money to each envelope for things like groceries or entertainment. When the cash runs out, you stop spending in that category.
This method makes your budget real and tangible. You physically see how much you have left, which helps prevent overspending.
It’s a simple system that doesn’t require fancy apps or tracking tools. Many boomers still swear by it because it encourages mindful spending and helps keep finances on track.
You might find that using cash envelopes reduces impulse buys and makes saving easier over time. Give it a try and see how it works for you.
Grow their own vegetables in home gardens
You can save money by growing your own vegetables at home. Boomers have long relied on their gardens to cut grocery costs.
Homegrown veggies mean fewer trips to the store and less spending on produce. Plus, when you grow what you need, you reduce food waste.
Gardening also lets you control what goes into your food, avoiding extra chemicals. It’s a practical and rewarding way to make your money stretch further.
Repair clothes instead of buying new
When you repair clothes, you save money by extending their life. Instead of tossing a favorite shirt or pants, a simple stitch or patch can bring them back to use.
You might think sewing is hard, but basic repairs are often easy to learn. With a needle and thread, you can fix small tears, missing buttons, or loose hems.
By doing these repairs yourself, you avoid spending on replacements. It also helps reduce waste, which is a bonus for your budget and the environment.
Cook meals from scratch
You save money by cooking meals from scratch because you avoid paying extra for pre-made or processed foods. Making your own meals lets you control portions and ingredients, which reduces waste.
When you prepare food yourself, you often use basic, affordable ingredients in larger quantities. This can stretch your dollars much further than buying ready-to-eat meals.
You also avoid hidden costs like added sugars, preservatives, and unhealthy fats found in many convenience foods. Cooking at home helps you eat healthier and save money at the same time.
Shop at thrift stores
When you shop at thrift stores, you can find quality items at a fraction of the price. Boomers often look for clothes, furniture, and household goods that still have plenty of life left.
You might be surprised at the unique and useful things you can discover. Thrift shopping encourages you to be patient and selective, which helps you avoid impulse buying.
By choosing secondhand, you also reduce waste and support local charities. It’s a practical way to save money while finding items that suit your style and needs.
Use a rotary phone to avoid extra fees
You might think rotary phones are outdated, but they can help you avoid some modern fees. Many phone companies charge extra for digital services and features you don’t use with a rotary phone.
Using a rotary phone limits you to basic calling, which means no surprise charges for data or apps. Plus, it encourages you to keep your phone plan simple and affordable.
If you still have a rotary phone, it can be a practical tool to manage costs. It reminds you to prioritize essential communication and steer clear of costly extras.
Collect and reuse glass jars for storage
You can save money by collecting glass jars from foods you buy. Instead of throwing them away, wash them and use them to store leftovers or dry goods.
Glass jars are durable and easy to clean. They also help keep your kitchen organized without needing extra containers.
Using jars reduces the need to buy plastic storage, which can add up in cost. Plus, it’s better for the environment since you’re reusing what you already have.
Turn down thermostat to save heating costs
You can lower your heating bills by turning down the thermostat a few degrees. Even reducing the temperature by just 1 or 2 degrees can lead to noticeable savings.
Boomers often keep their homes cooler and wear warmer clothes indoors instead. This small change helps them avoid high energy costs while staying comfortable.
Using a programmable thermostat can make it easier to lower temperatures when you’re not home or while sleeping. This way, you don’t have to remember to adjust it manually.
Take advantage of loyalty programs at local stores
You can save money by using loyalty programs at your favorite local stores. These programs often offer discounts, special offers, and points that add up to rewards.
Signing up is usually free and easy. You just provide some basic information, and the store tracks your purchases.
Make sure to use your loyalty card or phone number every time you shop. The savings might not be huge each time, but they add up over time.
Local stores value loyal customers, so you might also get exclusive deals or early access to sales. Keep an eye on emails or messages from these programs to not miss out.
Use sunscreen to prevent expensive skin treatments
You might think sunscreen is just for sunny days, but using it daily can protect your skin from damage all year round. Boomers learned early that this simple step helps avoid costly treatments later.
By regularly applying sunscreen, you reduce the risk of sunburns, wrinkles, and skin conditions. These protect your skin’s health and save you money on dermatology visits and procedures.
Making sunscreen part of your routine is an easy habit that pays off over time. It helps keep your skin looking healthier without extra expenses.
Make homemade cleaning products
You can save a lot by making your own cleaning products at home. Simple ingredients like vinegar, baking soda, and lemon juice work well and usually cost less than store-bought cleaners.
Homemade cleaners are easy to mix and customize. Just combine these basics with water or essential oils to freshen things up.
This approach also helps you avoid harsh chemicals. It’s a practical, budget-friendly choice that many Boomers still rely on today.
