30 Bills Frugal People Don’t Pay and What they Do Instead
Frugal people have a knack for trimming unnecessary expenses, and one of their biggest secrets is knowing which bills they simply don’t pay. While some costs are unavoidable, others can be reduced, negotiated, or eliminated entirely with smart financial habits.
From skipping certain subscriptions to avoiding sneaky fees, they find creative ways to keep more money in their pockets. If you’re looking to tighten your budget and save more each month, here are some bills you might not need to pay—if you play your cards right.
Cable TV
Paying for cable adds up fast. Frugal people skip the high bills and use streaming services or free digital antennas instead.
Plenty of free or low-cost options offer the same entertainment without the hefty price tag. Cutting cable is an easy way to spend less every month.
Gym Memberships
A gym membership sounds good, but it’s often a waste of money. Frugal people stay fit by working out at home or outdoors for free.
Walking, running, or using bodyweight exercises saves money without sacrificing fitness. It’s about making the most of what’s already available.
Brand-Name Groceries
Store brands often have the same ingredients as name brands but cost way less. Frugal shoppers know they’re just paying for the fancy label. They stick to generic alternatives and keep more money in their pockets.
Over time, this simple switch adds up to big savings.
To learn more: 53 Items Not to Buy at the Grocery Store
New Cars
Buying a new car means paying for fast depreciation – specifically have the value within the first five years. Frugal people choose reliable used cars and maintain them well to extend their life.
A well-kept used car saves thousands without sacrificing quality. It’s a smart way to get around for less.
To learn more: Is a Car an Asset or Liability?
Extended Warranties
Most extended warranties are just extra costs with little return. Frugal people skip them and rely on manufacturer warranties or smart maintenance.
The money saved can go toward actual repairs if needed. More often than not, these add-ons aren’t worth the price.
To learn more: Why a Thrifty Lifestyle is Something You Need Today
Bottled Water
Paying for bottled water is like throwing money away. A reusable bottle and a good filter cost less in the long run.
Frugal people avoid the markup and get the same clean water for pennies. It’s a simple way to cut a recurring expense.
To learn more: How to Be Frugal Green: 91+ Tips to Save Money and Environment
Landline Phones
A landline is an unnecessary bill in most homes today. Frugal people cut the cord and rely on cell phones instead.
There’s no reason to pay for two phone services when one does the job. Dropping a landline is an easy way to lower monthly expenses.
High-Interest Credit Card Fees
Carrying a balance on a credit card means paying extra for nothing. Frugal people avoid high-interest charges by paying their balances in full.
This habit keeps money in their pockets instead of sending it to the bank. Smart spending means never paying more than necessary.
To learn more: 7 Things to Give UP to Pay Off Debt Faster
Bank Fees
Monthly fees on checking accounts or ATM withdrawals are wasted money. Frugal people use no-fee banks or credit unions to avoid these charges.
Every dollar saved on fees can go toward something more important. Keeping banking free is an easy way to manage money wisely.
To learn more: This is the Simple Answer…How Many Bank Accounts Should I Have
Daily Coffee Shop Runs
Buying coffee every day adds up fast. Frugal people brew their own at home for a fraction of the cost. A good home setup pays for itself quickly, without sacrificing taste.
Small changes like this keep spending in check without giving up the things you love.
To learn more: The Best Smart Money Moves to Make in 2025
Frequent Takeout/Delivery Fees
Takeout is convenient but pricey, especially with extra fees. Frugal people cook at home to save money and eat healthier.
Meal planning makes it easier to skip costly restaurant meals. Cutting back on takeout keeps both your wallet and your budget in shape.
To learn more: 100+ Frugal Meals for When You’re Broke or on a Budget
Overpriced Insurance Policies
Paying too much for insurance is a common mistake. Frugal people shop around and compare rates to get the best deal.
Many policies have hidden costs that can be reduced or eliminated. Spending less on insurance means more money for what really matters.
Excessive Clothing Purchases
Constantly buying new clothes drains your budget fast. Frugal people buy secondhand or stick to a simple wardrobe.
Classic, well-made pieces last longer and cost less in the long run. The key is buying only what’s needed and making it last.
To learn more: 13 Insider Secrets to Thrift Store Shopping from an Expert
Lottery Tickets
The odds of winning are slim, but the cost adds up over time. You would have a higher return tracking the stock market.
Frugal people skip lottery tickets and put their money where it grows. Investing or saving offers better returns without the risk. It’s a smarter way to build financial security.
To learn more: Left Hand Itching: Money Luck Superstition Coming to You
Subscription Services
It’s easy to sign up for subscriptions and forget about them. Frugal people regularly check and cancel what they don’t use. Even small monthly fees add up over a year.
Cutting back on unused subscriptions is a quick way to save.
To learn more: What You Spend too Much On?
Impulse Purchases
Buying on impulse leads to wasted money. Frugal people wait at least 48 hours before making non-essential purchases.
This habit cuts down on regret buys and keeps spending in check. A little patience can lead to big savings.
To learn more: 12 Straightforward Ways to Become Minimalist and Save Money
Heating and Cooling Overuse
Cranking up the heat or AC leads to high bills. Frugal people adjust the thermostat, use fans, and dress for the weather to save money or snuggle in their favorite blanket.
Small changes can reduce energy costs without sacrificing comfort. Being mindful of usage makes a big difference.
Car Washes
Professional car washes seem cheap, but the costs add up. Frugal people wash their cars at home to keep them clean without the extra expense.
A bucket, soap, and a little effort save money in the long run. It’s an easy way to cut a recurring cost.
To learn more: 15 Everyday Items to Stop Buying to Save Money and Be Green
Dry Cleaning
Paying for dry cleaning every week isn’t cheap. Frugal people buy machine-washable clothes or use at-home cleaning kits.
Choosing fabrics that don’t require special care saves both time and money. Simple wardrobe choices make a big impact.
To learn more: 20 Unusual Ways to Reduce Spending and Save More
Full-Price Furniture
New furniture is expensive, and frugal people rarely pay full price. They buy secondhand, refurbish old pieces, or hunt for deals.
With a little effort, high-quality furniture can be found for much less. Spending wisely means never overpaying.
Fancy Cell Phone Plans
Big carriers charge a premium for extras most people don’t need. Frugal people switch to budget providers for the same service at a lower cost (and many use the same towers as the expensive carriers).
The savings add up without sacrificing coverage. Paying less for the same thing just makes sense.
To learn more: 20 Simple Budgeting Tips for Everyday Living
ATM Withdrawal Fees
Paying to access your own money is unnecessary. Frugal people use in-network ATMs or switch to banks with no withdrawal fees.
Over time, these small charges can add up to hundreds. Avoiding fees is an easy way to keep more cash in your pocket.
To learn more: Top 20 Brilliant Ways to Save Money Daily
Paper Towels and Disposable Products
Constantly buying disposable items is like throwing money away. Frugal people use reusable cloths, napkins, and containers instead.
Making small switches saves money and cuts down on waste. The upfront cost is worth the long-term savings.
To learn more: 91+ Frugal Tips to Save Money and Environment
Holiday Decorations
Holiday decorations can be overpriced, especially during peak shopping times. Frugal people make their own or buy at post-holiday clearance sales.
Planning ahead keeps costs down while still celebrating in style. Decorating doesn’t have to break the budget.
To learn more: 12 Amazingly Simple Hacks to Save for Christmas
Entertainment Subscriptions
Many streaming or entertainment subscriptions aren’t necessary. Frugal people use free resources like libraries for books, movies, and music.
Cutting back on paid subscriptions saves money without missing out on fun. Free entertainment is everywhere if you know where to look.
To learn more: 62 Fun Things to do with Friends: Activities for Friends To Do
New Tech Gadgets
The latest tech comes with a high price tag. Frugal people keep their devices longer or buy refurbished ones instead. Most upgrades aren’t necessary right away.
Waiting or choosing secondhand saves money without losing function.
To learn more: How Not to Go Broke for those who are Poor
Name-Brand Medications
Name-brand prescriptions cost more without added benefits. Always ask for generic versions, which work the same but cost less.
Checking for discounts or switching pharmacies also helps. Simple swaps like this keep medical costs manageable.
To learn more: Use this Financially Stable Checklist to See if You are on Track
Overpriced Gifts
Expensive gifts aren’t always better. Frugal people give meaningful experiences or handmade items instead. Thoughtful gifts often cost less but mean more.
Saving money doesn’t mean skipping generosity, just spending wisely.
To learn more: Overcome Gift Regret: Experience Gift Ideas That Do Not Go To Waste
Lawn Care Services
Paying someone to mow the lawn is convenient but costly. Frugal people handle it themselves to save money.
A little time spent outside keeps the yard looking great without the extra bill. It’s a simple way to cut unnecessary expenses.
To learn more: 43 Best Side Hustles for Men to Make Money
Credit Card Interest
Paying interest on credit cards is like throwing money away. Frugal people avoid it by paying off balances in full each month.
This habit keeps them from wasting money on fees. Smart credit use makes a big difference over time.
To learn more: How to Get Out of Debt in 5 Easy Steps
Find More Frugal Living Tips
There are plenty of ways to cut expenses and save more. Frugal people focus on needs over wants and make every dollar count. Small changes add up to big savings over time. A thrifty mindset helps build long-term financial security.
Living a frugal lifestyle isn’t about giving up everything—it’s about spending smarter and making your money work for you.
Want more saving money ideas? Follow Money Bliss for simple, practical frugal living tips to help you spend less and live more.
To learn more: The Best Frugal Living Ways to Save Money
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