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If you’re like most people, it can be easy to fall into the habit of buying things just because they’re marketed well, or because everyone else seems to have them. But what if we took a step back and started making more intentional purchases, cutting out the things that don’t add value to our lives?
In today’s post, I’m sharing the surprising things I don’t buy — and how these simple choices have helped me save big over the years. Whether you’re looking to simplify your life, reduce clutter, or just want a smarter way to manage your money, this list will help you rethink your purchasing habits.
1. Adult and Kid Books
I love reading — but I don’t always buy books. Instead, I take full advantage of my local library. It’s an incredible resource that offers free access to a vast collection of adult and children’s books. Not only does this save me money, but it also prevents clutter from piling up in my home.
A few years back everyone was saying libraries are done for, but ours is still thriving in my opinion!
2. Magazines (Say Hello to Free Online Content)
Do people still buy magazines? I seriously hope not! We can get free content about celebrities and gossip on our phones that is more up-to-date. Plus, in reality, who cares what is going on in the lives of celebrities? We should focus on our own lives and quit wasting money on other people that aren’t a part of our lives.
3. Random Toys on Outings
How often have you been out shopping or at a park, only to be bombarded with random toys? Instead of buying toys on a whim, I focus on thoughtful, purposeful gifts that will engage their imagination and creativity.
In our family, you don’t get something every time you visit the store. In fact, you basically never get anything at the store. We go to the store with a purpose and leave with that item.
We do not do impulse buys. Our children get gifts for birthdays and holidays.
4. Holiday Decor (Seasonal Overload)
Holiday decorations are beautiful, but they can also become clutter.
I have not yet really gotten into it and honestly don’t ever see it happening. Decorating just isn’t my thing. Christmas decorations often make me feel stressed and overwhelmed by the extra clutter in the house. Less is more when it comes to holiday décor — and it saves me money, too!
5. Coffee & Smoothies
I am not a coffee drinker so no struggle there, and I choose to make smoothies at home.
There is no need to buy beverages while out and about.
If you like fancy drinks, learn to make them at home before leaving the house.
Buy a single serve blender like this where it is ready to go!
6. Gas Station Food and Snacks
I never go into gas stations. I pay at the pump with my credit card. If we are on a road trip, instead of grabbing overpriced chips or candy during a pit stop, I pack snacks ahead of time for a more affordable option.
Your wallet (and waistline) will thank you!
7. Individual Snacks (Very Limited)
Pre-packaged, single-serve snacks are convenient, but they’re often overpriced and wasteful. I buy snacks in bulk, like nuts or crackers, and portion them out myself.
If we are going somewhere we can put them in a reusable tubber ware container. Do I sometimes use disposable baggies, yes, but I do try to do better with the reusable.
This not only saves me money but also helps reduce packaging waste, which is a win for the environment.
One thing that helps here is not feeling pressured to grab a snack for every walk or outing. We try to eat proper meals and avoid snacking when possible.
8. Impulse Buys on Amazon
Amazon is a great resource for also immediately meeting a need at the moment. But if you wait a few days, you can decide if that really was a needed item.
Do you have an Amazon package multiple times a week? If so, I think you need to cut back. We get one package every month or so. It is infrequent enough that we actually look forward to the package’s arrival.
If you no longer get excited for a delivery you are getting too many.
9. Expensive Birthday Cards
Instead of running out and grabbing an expensive card for every birthday or holiday, I keep a stocked card box. A few times a year, I run to Dollar Tree and stock it with $0.50 cards. This way when a birthday rolls around, I have an affordable card already at home.
No need to spend a fortune on a card. Instead, spend more for the actual gift.
10. Gift Shop Toys at Places Like Disney on Ice or the Zoo
We’ve all been there — a fun outing with the kids and they beg for a souvenir from the gift shop. But I’ve found that most of these items are overpriced and often forgotten about within days. Now, I focus on enjoying the experience rather than buying a trinket. Photos and memories last much longer than a plastic toy.
11. New Clothing (Secondhand Finds)
When it comes to clothing, I’ve shifted my focus to secondhand shopping. Places like Goodwill and Once Upon a Child offer great deals on gently used items. Not only do I save money, but I also contribute to reducing waste by reusing clothing instead of buying new.
Now I do of course buy some new clothing!
For more on my strategies when it comes to kid clothing check out, Why You NEED to Minimize Your Child’s Wardrobe Immediately!
12. Cleaning Refill Products
I am trying to reduce the number of cleaners in my home as well as cleaning supplies.
Take the Swiffer for example, instead of purchasing disposable refill pads, I am using microfiber cloths that can be washed and reused.
Avoid cleaning products that require multiple purchases in the future. These expenses add up and well as hurt the environment.
If you are ready to tackle a few unique cleaning jobs, check out this list of 7 spring cleaning ideas. 7 Easy Jobs to Get Ready for Spring! Not Your Typical Spring Cleaning List!
13. Kitchen Gadgets
While kitchen gadgets can be fun, I’ve learned that many of them just take up space and don’t actually get used. For example, a grape cutter seems like a good idea, but I can just make do with a knife and cutting board.
Invest in simple staple kitchen items instead of a bunch of cheap gadgets.
14. Fruit Snacks (Not on My Shopping List)
Fruit snacks are often marketed as a healthy option, but they’re packed with sugar and don’t offer the nutritional benefits of whole fruit. Instead, I keep fresh fruit on hand as a snack for myself and the kids.
My kids are allowed to eat fruit “snacks”. If they get them at birthdays or holidays, go for it.
But I will not be paying for this item, bringing it into my home, and then offering it as a “snack.”
I am not trying to fund my kids getting cavities.
15. Pouches (Skipped During Baby Phase)
Pouches for babies and toddlers are convenient, but I skipped them during the baby phase. I chose to make homemade purees and snacks instead. Not only was it cheaper, but I also knew exactly what was going into the food.
And my little one loved it!
16. Lunch Out/Fast Food
The amount of people who eat out multiple times a day astounds me. They grab breakfast on the way to work, maybe a coffee too, go grab a quick lunch, and then because it was a hard day grab a pizza on the way home.
Eating out is not the main place I put my money.
We typically eat out once on the weekend. Never during the week.
I have been a stay-at-home mom for the past 6 months and have eaten out once on my own. I have grabbed lunch a few times with friends.
You can’t constantly be eating out. We may go to the park. I pack a lunch, or we get home in time for lunch.
It is that simple!
17. Pre-Chopped Veggies/Fruit/Salads
While pre-chopped veggies and salads might seem like a time-saver, they come with a hefty markup. I’ve found that prepping my own vegetables and fruits takes just a few minutes longer and saves a lot of money. Plus, I have the satisfaction of knowing exactly how fresh everything is.
Typically I get home the grocery and unload the pantry staples. Throw anything frozen or fresh meat in the fridge and will save fruits and veggies for last. I’ll give them a wash and get them prepared for the week.
I call this “food prep” instead of meal prep.
18. Multiples of Streaming Services
There are certain things that you only need one of. For example, deciding between Netflix or Disney Plus. Get a Children’s Museum pass or a zoo pass, don’t get both!
We don’t need everything at the same time!
19. Frequent Hair and Makeup Products
I don’t buy a lot of beauty products, and I’ve found that a minimalist routine works best for me. I save money by avoiding trends and focusing on products that I know work for my skin and hair.
Simple is more affordable.
20. Frozen Pizza (Making Meals From Scratch)
I’ve started making my own pizza from scratch, and I’ve been experimenting with new recipes. Not only does it save money, but homemade pizza is a lot tastier and more nutritious.
When you start making food from scratch you feel a huge sense of satisfaction.
A while back, when prices were lower, I did an experiment to see if making a few foods from scratch was worth it, How Much Money Do You Save By Making Foods from Scratch?
21. Trendy Products (Goodbye, Stanley Cup, and Dyson Hair Wrap)
I’ve learned not to get caught up in every trend that comes along. While the Stanley Cup and Dyson hair tools might look tempting, they aren’t necessary for my lifestyle.
I stick to what works for me and avoid spending on items that might only be “in” for a short time.
Making intentional choices about what to buy has transformed the way I think about money, time, and even my lifestyle.
By cutting out these unnecessary purchases, I’ve managed to simplify my life, reduce waste, and save a significant amount of money.
If you’re looking to spend smarter and live more intentionally, consider these changes and see how much you could save — it’s all about living with less, but enjoying more!
Let me know in the comments — what’s something you’ve stopped buying that’s helped you save money or live more simply?
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