You’ve heard the classics: make a budget, shop sales, meal plan. Don’t get me wrong — those are solid strategies that I often recommend. But if you’re really looking to shake things up and save serious cash, it might be time to think outside the box with some extreme ways to save money.
Sometimes, the biggest breakthroughs come from the most unexpected places. Here are some extreme and unusual ways to save money that most people aren’t talking about — but could make a huge difference in your financial journey.
1. The “No New Clothes” Year
Fast fashion may be tempting, but what if you challenged yourself (and your family) to buy zero new clothing for a whole year? Thrift if needed. Mend what you have. Host swap nights with friends or community groups. You’ll save hundreds, cut down on clutter, and build creativity around the wardrobe you already own.
If you absolutely must buy something, set strict rules: secondhand only, or only to replace worn-out essentials. This mindset shift helps you truly appreciate what you already have.
2. Rent Out Storage Space in Your Home
Do you have a dry basement corner, a clean attic, or an extra closet? People in your area might pay to store seasonal items, furniture, or boxes. Try platforms like Neighbor.com or post in local buy/sell groups.
Make sure to check with your homeowner’s insurance and read the platform’s terms. Set clear agreements in writing and don’t accept anything you wouldn’t be comfortable storing in your home (no hazardous materials or perishables).
3. Become a “Dumpster Diver” for Deals
Retailers throw away brand new, sealed, and perfectly usable items more often than you think. Some savvy savers legally and safely salvage these items from commercial dumpsters.
Important: Always check your local laws first. Dumpster diving is legal in many places as long as there are no “No Trespassing” signs, locked enclosures, or gates. Stick to commercial areas, go during daylight, wear gloves, and never go alone.
Target safe spots like behind pharmacies (for expired but unopened items), dollar stores, or office supply stores. Avoid food from dumpsters unless you’re absolutely confident it’s safe.
4. Cut the Fridge — Yes, Really
Some extreme savers use mini fridges or skip refrigeration entirely, especially in cooler climates. They live on shelf-stable foods (beans, oats, canned goods) and shop fresh more frequently, drastically reducing food waste and electricity costs.
While this isn’t practical for large families or warm regions, it might work for singles or couples who eat simple meals. Be sure to follow all food safety guidelines and never store perishable items outside of proper temperature zones.
5. Adopt a “No Gift” Policy
Gifts can quietly drain your budget all year long. Consider setting up a new tradition: no physical gifts. Instead, write heartfelt notes, create experiences, or do acts of service.
Be upfront with friends and family about your intentions. Many will be relieved! For kids, teach them about budgeting and goal-setting by having them choose one meaningful experience over multiple toys.
6. Use “Ugly Produce” Delivery Services
Skip the overpriced, picture-perfect produce and try boxes from Misfits Market or Imperfect Foods. These companies sell perfectly edible fruits and veggies that didn’t meet grocery store beauty standards — often at 30-50% off retail prices.
Bonus: You help reduce food waste and get creative with your meals. Check delivery fees and compare prices to your local stores to make sure it’s actually a savings in your area.
7. Shower at the Gym (Even If You Don’t Work Out)
If you have a budget-friendly gym membership, make the most of it by using their showers. This can save on water and electricity, especially if you have a large household or older plumbing.
Some extreme savers even go a step further, using gyms to charge devices or do laundry (if available). Just make sure you’re within the gym’s rules, and be courteous of others using the facilities.
8. Try “Financial Fasting” Days
Designate 1-2 days a week where you spend zero dollars. No online shopping, no gas, no takeout, no impulse buys. Just you, your home, and your resources.
These “fasts” break the spending habit and help you become more intentional. You’ll quickly spot where your money goes without even realizing it.
9. Unsubscribe From the Internet (Temporarily)
Cutting your home internet might seem drastic, but if you’re really strapped for cash, consider it for a month. Use your phone’s hotspot or free Wi-Fi at your library or a local cafe. It can save $50–$100 and curb endless scrolling and online spending.
Be sure to weigh the pros and cons — if you work from home, this might not be practical. But for students, retirees, or stay-at-home parents, it could be a short-term win.
10. Live Like It’s the Great Depression
Challenge yourself to a full month of Depression-era living. Cook everything from scratch, grow your own herbs, reuse everything, and go on walks instead of drives.
Watch old cooking videos or read history-based frugal living blogs. Get the whole family involved. This kind of challenge builds gratitude, cuts expenses fast, and makes you resilient.
Final Thoughts: Embrace the Unusual
These extreme methods aren’t for everyone. But when you’re serious about your goals — like paying off debt, building a life of freedom, or preparing for the future — sometimes going against the grain is exactly what you need.
Pick one or two that speak to you and give them a shot. The most powerful part of these strategies isn’t just the money saved — it’s the mindset shift they create.
Got a wild money-saving tip you swear by? I’d love to hear about it! Find me on YouTube.
