Frugal Living

Free Databases and Manuals at Public Libraries

Your library's online portal is filled with valuable resources that could save time and money. Free car repair manuals, do-it-yourself roof repair guides and language lessons are a

The 7 Rules of Budget Travel

Want to save money and protect the environment while on vacation? Get eco-friendly and genuine travel experiences by following these 7 rules of budget travel.

Wage slave, debt slave

This article has its roots in an article I wrote some time ago that used the terms wage slave and debt peonage—terms that some people objected to. Those making free choices aren't

30 Household Products Vinegar Can Replace

Vinegar has at least 30 uses that make it a viable alternative to many household and personal products. Save money — the natural way, with vinegar.

How I'm Conquering My Bag Lady Fears: My 10-Step Program

What keeps me up late at night? I worry about becoming a bag lady. And I have plenty of company; a lot of women (and some men also)have secret fears about living on the streets wit

Will "forced frugality" last?

Lately I have been hearing about the concept of "forced frugality" from the media and my peers. Many colleagues and family members say that they feel a need to be frugal in this

How I Averted an Emotional Spending Binge: My Six-Step Program

When you're tired or feeling blue it is easy to fall prey to emotional spending. Here's my six-point strategy for avoiding frivolous spending when you are at your most vulnerable.

Best Money Tips: Cold Shower Edition

This week in Wise Bread's Best Money Tips roundup: love your money, keep it cool, ignore your mother's advice, savagely murder your debt in its sleep, stop eating so much in the

15 Low Cost Ways to Beat Stress

Emotional spending and expensive junk food binges -- budget busters -- are often triggered by stress. Here are 15 ideas for diminishing stress without spending a lot of money.

Save a Bundle on Your Groceries: Consider Your Local Asian Market

Despite the coupons and the special offers, the major supermarket chains are not cheap. You find a deal now and then, but on the whole they really don’t give you great value for mo

Which Baby Products are a Waste of Money?

My husband and I are expecting a little baby boy this Halloween. Right now I am in the process of researching which baby products are necessary and which are a waste of money. He

Food, Inc. and the Origins of Your Food: 3 Reasons to Remain Ignorant (Plus Free Movie Screenings)

Food, Inc., a movie detailing the origins and production of food, came to theaters last month. While I'm glad I've become more knowledgeable about food, in light of Food, Inc.'s re

Mommy I'm Bored: 25 Frugal Ways to Beat Summer Boredom

My 9-year-old daughter does not start camp until later this month. This means I have to entertain her or endure a steady chorus of: Mommy, I'm Bored! Here's what we're doing to cu

How to Increase the Chance of Someone Returning Your Lost Wallet

It’s not a fun feeling. You’ve reached the checkout at the grocery store, you feel into your pocket, or purse, and realize that your wallet is missing. You heart stops, you walk ou

Close-to-Home Outdoor Adventure Basics

I know many people would like to spend more time outdoors, but may not know where to start. Here are some of my favorite modes of outdoor exploration that doesn't require too much

Pesky Pests: Easy Homemade Mosquito and Insect Traps and Repellent

Keep those insects, ants, wasps, rodents, and other creepy crawlies at bay with these easy homemade recipes.

I Won't Eat or Spend While Standing Up

When we make big purchases or large financial commitments -- a car, a home, college tuition -- at some point in that process, we actually have to sit down. Why don't do we do that

Ready To Buy Some Exercise Equipment? Read This First.

Don’t worry, this is not an exposé on bad equipment or faulty products; I’m no expert on exercise machines and products. But I do know a little about human nature and after many ch

Would You Accept $200,000 If You Didn't Know Where It Came From?

You know, I hear a lot of people say that frugal people would do anything for dime. Personally, I think that applies more to greedy people, but it got me thinking of a question tha

25 Things to Do With Used Corks (Including Making Money With Them)

So you've popped open a bottle of wine...now, what do you do with the wine cork? You have a surprising number of options.

Latest Articles in Frugal Living

The 8 Most Eye-Opening Money Attractions in the U.S.

Make your next vacation money-themed, and check out these eight amazing attractions across the U.S.

5 Ways Gig Economy Workers Can Save for Retirement

Even if your full-time job consists of several gig economy jobs, you can successfully save for retirement — here's how.

5 Renovations That Don't Increase Your Resale Value

Before you get started on a new home renovation, make sure you know if it'll increase your resale value.

How to Protect Yourself From Credit Card Theft

Don't let a scammer get a hold of your credit card number. Here's how to keep your account secure.

5 Reasons Not to Use Debit Cards When You Shop Online

Before you place an order through your favorite online retailer, consider these reasons to use credit instead of debit.

16 Small Steps You Can Take Now to Improve Your Finances

Believe it or not, you can improve your finances in a big way by making several small money moves.

How to Maximize Rewards on Everyday Spending

If you're not using your travel or cash back card for certain expenses, you're leaving valuable rewards on the table.

How to Make Better Financial Decisions

Focusing all your efforts into reaching one financial goal is a fairly straightforward process. But what about when you have more than one financial goal? This guide will help.

5 Things Keeping You From a Life of Financial Independence

These are common obstacles that could be standing between you and sweet financial freedom.

Should You Use a Personal Loan or a Home Equity Loan to Remodel Your Home?

Looking to remodel your home? Here's how to decide between a personal loan and a home equity loan to pay for it.

5 Money Moves to Make Before You Turn 40

Before you hit the big 4-0, make sure you've made these money moves.

The 5 Best Products for Dry Skin

If you're looking for a new product to hydrate your skin, look no further than these five!

The 5 Best Products for Oily Skin

There are thousands of products on the market just for people with oily skin, and many of them are budget-friendly! Here are five excellent options.

The 5 Best Hyaluronic Acid Serums

If you're looking to give hyaluronic acid serum spin, any of the five below are excellent picks that won't break your budget.

The 5 Best Eye Shadow Palettes

Here are some excellent eye shadow palettes that offer a wide range of shades and won't break your budget.

The 5 Best Sheet Masks

If you're new to the sheet mask scene, or are looking for a new one to try, these five are excellent picks that won't break your budget.

The 5 Best Stay-At-Home Haircare Essentials

Whether you're looking for a dry shampoo, or a root cover-up to hide those grays, you can have the best haircare products delivered right to your door.

The 5 Best Cozy Home Essentials

If you look around your living room or bedroom and don't immediately want to take a nap, something's missing.

The 5 Best Stay-At-Home Beauty Essentials

Just because the world has changed doesn't mean you need to neglect your beauty regimens. These products are budget-friendly and will make you feel like a glowing goddess.

The 5 Best Stay-At-Home Skincare Essentials

If you've been missing your regular facials, or you're just looking to switch up your skincare routine, these items will give your skin a fresh glow without breaking your budget.