Taking control of your money can feel like a big step, especially when everyday costs are already high. But it doesn’t have to mean making major changes all at once. In many cases, small, practical steps can make a real difference over time.
In this blog, we’ve outlined 7 ways to save money and reduce your everyday costs. Things you can realistically start doing this week.
You don’t need to get everything right straight away. Even one or two small changes can build into habits that make managing your money that bit easier.
1. Treat saving like a regular bill
One of the simplest ways to build savings is to treat it like anything else you have to pay. Instead of saving what’s left over at the end of the week or month, try setting aside a small, fixed amount as soon as you’re paid.
That might be through a standing order into a savings account. Even €5 a week can add up over time in a way that often surprises people.
For example, Aoife set up a €50 monthly transfer into her savings account. Over the course of a year, that gave her €600 to fall back on when her car needed repairs.
If you’re not sure where to start, tools like the My Budget tool can help you map out what’s realistic.
2. Take a closer look at your subscriptions
Subscriptions can be easy to forget about, especially when they’re paid automatically. But over time, even a few small monthly costs can add up.
It can be worth sitting down and going through what you’re currently paying for. This might include things like streaming services, gym memberships,, or apps. Ask yourself if you’re actually getting value from each one.
Where you do want to keep a service, it’s still worth checking if there’s a cheaper option available. Some providers offer discounts if you’re a student or sometimes offer family plans. In some limited cases, suppliers may offer you a discount to keep you as a customer. This is not guaranteed, but worth asking.
Tip: Some services offer discounts or promotions when you attempt to cancel or after you cancel. It’s always worth checking if you can negotiate a better rate or take advantage of free trials.
3. Make small changes to how you shop for food
For most households, groceries are one of the biggest regular expenses. The good news is that small changes here can make a noticeable difference.
Planning meals in advance, writing a shopping list, and sticking to it can help avoid impulse spending. Choosing own-brand products or buying in bulk (when it makes sense) can also help reduce costs over time.
Some people also find it helpful to check supermarket apps or weekly offers before shopping, as they often highlight discounts on items you already plan to buy.
Anne Marie, a mother of four, found that planning meals and buying in bulk significantly reduced her weekly food costs.
If you’d like more ideas, you can explore our guides on shopping smarter or reducing food waste.
Looking for recipe inspiration? Check out the MABS 101 Square Meals cookbook.
4. Keep an eye on your energy costs
Energy bills can change over time, so it’s worth reviewing your provider now and again to make sure you’re not paying more than you need to.
Alongside that, small day‑to‑day habits can help reduce usage. For example, actions like turning off appliances when they’re not in use or making small adjustments to heating.
Tip: Conducting an energy audit can identify ways to reduce consumption and costs. With some homes now equipped with smart meters, you can check out this blog from SEAI to learn more about using your Smart Meter to understand how much energy each appliance in your home is using: Ruth shares her own experience of learning about smart meters.
You can also borrow an Energy Saving Kit from your local library that will help you understand what appliances in your home are costing you the most.
5. Review your insurance each year
Insurance is one of those costs that can quietly increase over time if it’s left unchecked. That’s why it’s worth reviewing your policies each year and comparing quotes from different providers.
Even small differences between providers can add up. John, for example, saved €200 a year simply by switching his car insurance after comparing options online.
If you’re thinking about switching, our guide on car insurance tips can help.
6. Think about how you travel
Transport costs can build up over time, particularly when you factor in fuel, parking and maintenance.
Depending on your situation, there may be opportunities to reduce this. This might mean using public transport more often, cycling, or sharing journeys where possible.
Some employers also offer support, such as Taxsaver tickets or the Bike to Work Scheme, which can make a real difference over the course of a year.
7. Take time to separate ‘needs’ from ‘wants’
This is often one of the more difficult things to do, but it can also be one of the most effective.
When you’re about to spend money, it can help to pause and ask whether it’s something you need right now or something you simply want.
In some cases, even delaying a purchase can make it easier to stay on track with short-term savings goals.
If you’d like to explore this further, we’ve put together a guide to needs and wants.
Final thoughts
Saving money isn’t about doing everything perfectly. It’s about understanding where your money is going and making changes that work for your situation.
Even everyday habits, like planning meals or using leftovers, can make a difference over time, both in reducing costs and cutting down on waste.