24 clever ways to save money in 2024 (besides switching to Mint Mobile)

At Mint, we’re all about affordability, transparency and finding clever ways to save money — even if it’s not on wireless. That’s why we’ve put together a bunch of tips on how to save some major moolah in 2024 (besides just switching to Mint, of course). Read on to find out how to make 2024 your most savings-y year ever.

How to save money as a student 

Times can be tough when you’re a student, but it doesn’t have to be all instant ramen (unless you want it to be). In addition to switching to a lower-priced wireless plan for college students, here are some other tips on saving money while you juggle midterms, finals, clubs and more.

1. Start a family plan with your friends

You don’t have to be blood-related to start up a family plan — chosen families can save big, too. Join forces with your pals on a phone plan (Mint Family, anyone?), streaming service subscription or a music subscription like Spotify. Family plans can sometimes be even cheaper than a student discount.

2. Purchase used books

You probably don’t need (or want) the newest copy of The Norton Anthology of World Literature. And if you buy a new copy, you’re probably not even going to pick it up once your class ends. That’s why it makes sense (and cents) to purchase used books or check them out from the library. In addition to textbooks, many libraries have apps that allow you to check out ebooks, audiobooks and even magazines digitally. 

3. Leverage your student discount

Just like seniors can enjoy a special IHOP menu or Mint 55+, students get tons of discounts. Even if one isn’t listed, it never hurts to ask if there’s one available at restaurants, museums and more.

4. Use cashback credit cards

You’re spending that money anyways, so why not get cash back? Getting a cashback card focused on essentials like groceries or gas can be a great way to get a little extra money in your pocket. Just make sure you can pay your card off each month.

5. Lower your student loan payments

Ah, the reason you probably need to save money in the first place: student loans. Consolidating your student loans could potentially lower your overall interest rates. Depending on your income, you could also take a look at income-driven repayment plans.

How to save money on groceries 

Besides not buying $16 smoothies at your local organic grocery store, there are tons of ways to cut the cost of your grocery bill while not sacrificing on eating the food you want to eat. 

1. Utilize coupons 

Have you ever seen those extreme couponers who end up paying 5 cents for an entire shopping cart of groceries? Well, you don’t have to go that far, but it’s always a good idea to clip any coupons you get in the mail (if you want to be old school) or download your local grocery store’s app or sign up for their texts for rewards and discounts. 

2. Meal prep 

Save major time and money by meal prepping, where you make a bunch of lunches, dinner, breakfasts and even snacks ahead of time so you’re not tempted to go out to eat. 

3. Have a shopping list

Believe it or not, a shopping list can help you purchase exactly what you need and stick to the list. Don’t be tempted by dozens of varieties of Pop-Tarts again…unless they’re on your list, of course.

4. Buy in bulk

There’s a reason we offer wireless in bulk: buying in bulk helps you save money. And that goes double for groceries, especially when you buy stuff that lasts a long time like paper products, oils or nut butters.

5. Have a “leftovers day”

Once a week, avoid wasting food and get creative with what you can make with your leftovers. Think of it as your own personal Chopped challenge and clear out the fridge.

6. Don’t go grocery shopping on an empty stomach

Going to the grocery store ravenous is not a good idea when you are trying to save money. Make sure you have a snack (or two) before hitting the aisles. Maybe one of those meal prepped ones from earlier?

How to save money with your partner

Here are a few ways for you and your boo to save some money and still keep the romance alive.

1. Save on transportation

The world was made for two…and so was the carpool lane. See if you and your partner can carpool together and save on gas or even an extra mode of transportation.

2. Free dates

Sharing time together doesn’t have to involve spending money. Whether it’s going on a hike, a walk on the beach or picnicking, there are plenty of ways to spend time together that don’t involve, well, spending.

3. Have a joint bank account

If you and your partner are serious, a joint account can help you keep track of just how much you’re spending, especially if you have a savings goal you want to hit together.

4. Cut down on drinks when going out

Drinking is probably one of the more expensive things you can do while going out. Consider enjoying a drink together at home before heading out to town. Having one of you play bartender can make dinners at home feel extra special, too.

5. Set a savings goal

The couple that saves together, stays together. Encourage yourself and your partner to set a savings goal and see if you can keep each other accountable

How to save money for a house

Here’s how to budget for a Mojo Dojo Casa House of your own. 

1. Downsize your lifestyle

Consider moving to a smaller apartment, getting roommates or just generally paying less than what you can afford to save for a house. That means avoiding lifestyle creep — e.g. spending more just because you start making more.

2. Challenge yourself with no-spend days

Whether it’s a day, a weekend or even a month where you only spend on the absolute essentials, no-spend days can be an awesome way to save money and get clever with how you spend your time.

3. Say “no” when necessary

Don’t let peer pressure get you to start spending money on costly outings. Be confident in loud budgeting: saying “no” when you absolutely don’t want to be dropping cash on the things your friends or family want to do.

4. Reverse budgeting 

When you get paid, always pay yourself first. What does that mean? Once that paycheck hits your account, put anything you need toward debt, put a chunk in savings and then consider spending it on whatever you need to.

How to save money for future plans

Have some other kind of huge savings goal? In addition to earlier tips, here are a few more ways to pad your wallet.

1. Leverage site blocking extensions 

Online shopping is easy…almost too easy. If you have problems spending money online, consider blocking the sites you frequently shop on.

2. Use electricity on off-peak hours

Save some money on your utilities and run the dishwasher in the morning or do laundry at night when electricity costs less.

3. Look into switching to LED light bulbs

LED light bulbs save you more money than traditional lights. Bonus points: they also last longer.

4. Cancel subscriptions you don’t need

Subscription costs can add up. Think about what subscriptions are necessary. Is there a streaming service you can consider canceling? Do you need two meal planning services? You might even comb your statements to see if there are any subscriptions you forgot to cancel.

Now go and save some money…cleverly

Armed with all of these tips, you’re ready to save some major moolah, scratch, dough, coins…you get it. One last tip? Don’t spend money on things you don’t actually need, like pricey wireless plans. At Mint, plans start at just $15 for three months ($45 total, equivalent to $15/mo)*. Tap the button to see why Mint Mobile could be right for you. 

*New activation and upfront payment for 3-month plan req’d. Taxes and fees extra. Addt’l restrictions apply. Unlimited customers using >40/GB will experience lower speeds. Video streams at ~480p.