Best in Budget
There are certain cheap habits that many of us never outgrow. Even if you get rich and no longer need to be thrifty, you may find yourself continuing these practices as a matter of habit. With that in mind, here are 20 budget behaviors that everyone values, no matter the number on their bank account.
1. Points
Even the most affluent consumers like to earn points or rewards when they buy something. It’s a simple pleasure to receive a little more when you’ve already spent money, whether it’s air miles or grocery store points.
2. Sorting Low to High
Some people never lose the excitement of the hunt, no matter how rich they get. Sorting online shopping by "low to high" is an inexpensive vice that scratches that bargain itch every time. It's a little luxury that makes even the wealthiest feel like a winner.
3. Free Parking
Even the most affluent drivers stick to the free spots, no matter how long they have to hunt for them. Avoiding paid parking is an easy way to save a few bucks, whether you’re loaded or not. So, the next time you park in the free zone, you have one more reason to pat yourself on the back for a job well done.
4. Walking
It's hard to find a billionaire who is willing to give up the exercise, fresh air, and simple joy that commuting this way offers, whether that entails walking, biking, or taking advantage of some scenic bus routes.
5. Shopping Flyers
The impulse to buy discounted food is a strong one. A frugal habit that involves meal planning around coupons or flyer offers is a cheap pleasure that never gets old. Cheap is a useful way of describing this sensible, low-cost practice.
6. Store Brand Products
Wealthy or not, some people can't get enough of generic brands. Purchasing store-label goods is an inexpensive habit that cuts costs without a great quality loss. Even if they have unlimited resources, this behavior is kept alive by the pleasure of getting the same item for less.
7. In Season
The cheapest indulgence even the wealthiest people will typically agree to is eating only produce when it's in season. This allows them to experience the most flavor and freshness at the lowest cost, rather than paying more for items that are off-season. It's a timeless and frugal habit that always stays in style, regardless of one's net worth.
8. Using Up Shoes
No matter how much money they make, some people never tire of milking a favorite pair of shoes for every last mile. Wearing them to death is a cheap habit grounded in pragmatism and sentiment. It's an obstinate way to hold on to value, comfort, and familiarity.
9. Dollar Store
Who wants to pay six times more at a drugstore when you can get it for a buck at the Dollar Tree? It's a cheap thrill that cheapens the entire process of shopping for a lot of folks, and it's a habit that doesn't go away with prosperity.
10. Facebook Marketplace
Buying second-hand is cheaper and helps them sleep better at night. Paying cash for a car or sofa instead of financing it boosts their cash flow and eliminates monthly payment anxiety. It's a thrifty and risk-averse habit that tends to stick for life.
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11. Used Cars
Some people just can't get away from the benefits of purchasing used cars. Even if they get very rich, they love to get a good, reliable car for much less than a new model would cost. This is a penny-pinching tendency that never goes away for many.
12. Aldi
There are lots of high-end stores to choose from, but budget-loving customers won't have a hard time finding great savings at Aldi. Even the wealthiest shoppers will surely want to grab affordable groceries on their way out the door.
13. Temperature Control
Heating or cooling systems are used the most in most homes. Even the most affluent people turn down the heat or air conditioning when they are away from home to keep their bills from rising. The payoff is relatively small and immediate; it is the easiest way to get the most benefit for your dollar without any real loss of comfort.
14. Ramen Noodles
Even if they're fabulously wealthy, some people cannot go without buying a cheap pack of ramen noodles. It's a cheap and filling meal that is also easy and quick to make. The price and comfort of ramen can be hard to match even if you have unlimited resources.
15. Grocery Store Bags
There’s something about grocery store bags that even the wealthiest shoppers can’t get enough of. These free plastic or paper sacks seem like they have a million uses. They end up doubling as trash bags, storage containers, or just holding odds and ends from an errand run.
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16. Toothpaste Tube
It’s practically tradition to have to squeeze every last drop out of the toothpaste tube. The thought of wasting something that's still usable can be annoying. Plus, there's also the satisfaction of getting the most out of a product, of course.
17. The Specials
There’s nothing quite like lunch and dinner specials. Getting a cheaper meal makes us feel like a good spender and stretches the value without the compromise of quality and taste. This is a behavior we continue to indulge because who doesn't like to save money when it comes to food?
18. Financing
Buy now, pay later isn't just for people on a tight budget. Even millionaires often prefer to finance purchases instead of paying in full. For example, buying on credit can be a cash flow protection measure, or people may use credit cards to rack up rewards or simply feel more in control of their money.
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19. Costco
It seems like a great deal to stockpile groceries, household essentials, and junk food. After all, you’re just getting more bang for your buck, right? With that in mind, Costco memberships are something even the rich value.
20. How Much
The question on many people’s minds is, “How much?” This isn’t just true for those on a budget: even the richest people ask this question before making a purchase. The habit of checking the price is inescapable, no matter how much money you make.
