Think about your life before the COVID-19 pandemic, and your life now? Has it changed?
Very few people would say no. Life has changed it one way on another. It’s reshaped our lives – our routines, where we work, our priorities, and even our wallets.
While it brought about many challenges and uncertainties, the pandemic did also teach us valuable lessons in resourcefulness and frugality.
As we emerge from the COVID-19 pandemic we’re now diving head-first into a cost-of-living crisis. So, what did we learn from the pandemic that might help us save money now in the cost-of-living crisis?
- Master the Art of DIY Haircuts
One of the first things many of us learned during the pandemic was the art of cutting our own hair or our family’s hair. As salons and barbershops temporarily closed their doors, we had no choice but to take matters into our own hands. Although it may seem daunting at first, you can save a significant amount of money by investing in a quality pair of haircutting scissors and following online tutorials. With practice, you might even discover a hidden talent for hairstyling! Just because hair salons have opened again, doesn’t mean you can’t keep doing home haircuts.
You only need a few things to get started:
A hairdressing kit; and
We would definitely recommend a hairdressers gown so you don’t spend hours trying to get hair out of your best tea towels! (Talking from experience!
- Home Cooking and Meal Planning
The pandemic forced us to stay home and cook our meals, leading to newfound culinary skills and savings. By planning your meals, creating a shopping list, and cooking at home, you can reduce your food expenses significantly. Not only is it healthier, but it also allows you to experiment with new recipes, control portion sizes, and minimize food waste.
- Embrace Thrift Store Treasures
With financial uncertainties looming, thrift stores became a popular destination for budget-conscious individuals. Embrace the thrill of the hunt and explore your local thrift stores for unique fashion finds, furniture, and household items. You’ll be surprised by the quality items you can discover at a fraction of their original price.
- Cancel Unused Subscriptions
The pandemic made us take a closer look at our monthly expenses, leading many to reassess their subscription services. Take some time to evaluate which subscriptions you genuinely use and cancel the ones you rarely or never utilize. It’s a simple step that can lead to substantial savings over time.
- Negotiate Bills and Utilities
During the pandemic, many companies and service providers were willing to negotiate prices or offer flexible payment plans. Take advantage of this situation by contacting your internet, cable, and utility providers to see if they can offer you a better deal. A quick phone call could lead to substantial savings on your monthly bills.
- Ditch Disposable Products
The pandemic highlighted the importance of sustainability and reducing waste. Swap out single-use items like paper towels, disposable cutlery, and plastic water bottles for reusable alternatives. By investing in reusable products, you’ll save money in the long run while helping the environment.
This is my absolute favourite reusable water bottle.
- Grow Your Own Produce
Gardening experienced a surge in popularity during the pandemic as people sought ways to connect with nature and become more self-sufficient. Consider starting a small vegetable or herb garden, even if you only have limited space. Growing your own produce not only provides fresh and organic food but also helps you save money on grocery bills.
- Prioritize Free Entertainment
The pandemic taught us that we don’t always need to spend money to have a good time. Explore free entertainment options like hiking, biking, picnics in the park, or even organizing game nights at home with friends and family. Take advantage of community events, free concerts, and virtual cultural experiences that offer entertainment without draining your wallet.
- DIY Home Repairs
The pandemic encouraged us to become more self-reliant when it came to home repairs. Instead of calling a professional for every minor issue, learn how to tackle basic repairs and maintenance tasks yourself. Numerous online tutorials and DIY guides can help you save money on repairs, renovations, and upkeep.
- Cut Back on Non-Essential Spending
The pandemic served as a wake-up call, reminding us to prioritize our spending on essentials. Review your expenses and identify areas where you can cut back. Limit impulse purchases, avoid unnecessary luxury items, and focus on the things that truly matter. Adopting a minimalist mindset can have a profound impact on your financial well-being.
Get started with our <expense planner> here.
- Explore DIY Beauty and Skincare
Spa visits and beauty treatments were put on hold during the pandemic, inspiring us to find DIY alternatives. Explore homemade face masks, body scrubs, and natural beauty remedies using ingredients you already have in your kitchen. Not only will you save money, but you’ll also indulge in self-care without leaving your home.
We love this peel off mask.
- Plan and Budget for Future Expenses
The pandemic highlighted the importance of having a solid financial plan and emergency fund. Take this opportunity to evaluate your current financial situation and create a budget that includes saving for future expenses, emergencies, and retirement. By being proactive and setting aside money regularly, you’ll be better prepared for unexpected events and avoid unnecessary debt.
Check out <this> for helping you.
The COVID-19 pandemic forced us to adapt to challenging circumstances and re-evaluate our financial habits. By embracing the lessons learned during this time, we can continue to practice smart money-saving strategies in our post-pandemic lives. From DIY haircuts to embracing thriftiness and making informed purchasing decisions, these 12 tips will help you build a stronger financial foundation and foster a more resourceful and resilient mindset.
Let us know about any other money saving tops you learned in the pandemic that help you now.