We all know to clip coupons, buy things in bulk if possible (but only if we'll use it!), buy things on sale, yada yada yada.  But below are some unique tips and ideas that you won't find repeated in every magazine:






1.  Don't buy every pretty wrapping paper you pass, even if it's on sale.  Just buy one roll of white wrapping paper and/or one roll of brown craft paper (the stuff grocery bags are made out of).  Then add ribbons/bows to match the occasion...and get creative!  You can also use this paper to wrap things for shipping, storage and more.


Image by www.transpack.co.uk


2.  Ladies only (warning guys-you may not want to read this one):  Wear only black undies.  (Except obviously if you're wearing white pants!).  When it's that time of the month, you won't have to worry about ruining  expensive underthings.

3.  Buy only one type of sock.  I like the 10-packs from Target.  If one sock wanders off into the laundry abyss, it's no biggie.  Plus it's easier to match them up if they're all the same. (saves time!)


Maybe not this type of sock specifically


4.  Always, ALWAYS search for a coupon ONLINE before you buy.  Before you head out to any retailer, do a Google Search for a coupon to the store.  For example, search " Home Depot Coupons".  If your Google search yields nada, try eBay.  Yes, eBay, especially if you intend to spend a LOT of money.  Using our Home Depot example again, let's say you buy a 20% off coupon on eBay for $3.  You go to Home Depot and spend $1,000 on appliances, use the 20% off coupon and save $200!  Well worth it.

5.  Keep your accessories simple.  Unless you have cash to spare on the latest jewelry, purses and shoes, just buy the essentials.  I have three purses:  brown, white and black.  They go with EVERYTHING.  Trust me, it's hard for me to pass by a pink purse and not buy it, but (so far) I've resisted (OK-that's a lie.  Once I bought one, but then I returned it).  Same goes for shoes and belts.  For jewelry:  I wear a ring, (I have a couple to choose from), a simple watch and cubic zirconia stud earrings.  (I lose them too easily to invest in diamonds).  I never have to worry about coordinating my jewelry to my outfit because it always matches, nor do I have to find a pair of earrings to match my new dress!  With the money saved, I can buy...well...more dresses!


Photo by littlethings1

Have you hacked any unique frugal tips?    Please share them with the rest of us by entering them in the "comments" area below.