When you’re on a journey to get out of debt, every dollar counts — and sometimes, the best money-saving tricks come from the past. The Victorian era (1837–1901) was a time when people had to stretch every penny, often making do with what little they had. While life looked very different back then, the heart of frugal living hasn’t changed: being resourceful, intentional, and mindful with what you have.
If you’re trying to pay off debt, these old-fashioned frugal habits can inspire you to save more, spend less, and find beauty in simplicity. Remember — small changes add up, and every step forward brings you closer to financial freedom.
1. Make Do and Mend
Victorians couldn’t run out to the store every time something wore out — they fixed what they had. Sewing up a small hole in a shirt or patching up worn-out knees on kids’ pants was a normal part of life. If you’re on a tight budget, learning a few basic sewing skills can save you money and help your clothes last longer.
Encouragement: If mending your clothes makes you feel self-conscious, try to let go of that worry. Choosing to repair instead of replace isn’t a sign of struggle—it’s a sign of wisdom. Every stitch is a step toward your financial freedom, and those who truly matter will admire your resourcefulness, not judge you for it.
2. Use Every Scrap in the Kitchen
Victorian kitchens wasted nothing. Leftover bread became breadcrumbs, vegetable scraps went into broth, and even small amounts of food were turned into soups or pies. If you’re trying to cut your grocery bill, challenge yourself to use every bit of what you buy.
Tip: Keep a container in the freezer for veggie scraps and make homemade broth once it’s full. Not only does it save money, but it feels so good to create something nourishing out of what would have been trash.
3. Cook at Home — Simple Meals, Simple Ingredients
Most Victorian families ate simple, homemade meals like soups, stews, and porridge. Eating out or buying convenience foods was a rare luxury. Cooking at home — even if you’re tired or busy — is one of the most powerful ways to cut costs and take control of your budget.
Encouragement: Your meals don’t have to be fancy or Instagram-worthy. If you’re feeding your family on a budget, you’re already winning. Keep it simple, do your best, and remember — every meal at home is a victory for your debt-free journey.
4. Grow What You Can
Even small Victorian homes often had kitchen gardens where families grew herbs, vegetables, or berries. You don’t need a huge garden to save money — a few pots of herbs on a windowsill or tomatoes on your porch can cut grocery costs and bring a little joy into your home.
Tip: Start small with something easy like basil or green onions. Every little bit helps, and there’s something empowering about growing even a tiny part of your own food.
5. Walk Instead of Drive
Victorians walked — a lot. They didn’t have the luxury of hopping in a car for every little errand. If you live close to stores or work, try walking or biking when you can. It saves money on gas and parking, and every little bit adds up.
Encouragement: Walking is free, clears your mind, and helps you process the stress that comes with paying off debt. Use that time to dream about your debt-free future.
6. Barter and Trade
In the Victorian era, neighbors often traded skills or goods instead of spending money. Could you trade babysitting with a friend, swap clothes with a neighbor, or offer a skill in exchange for something you need?
Tip: Start by asking in local Facebook groups or with friends — you’d be surprised how many people would love to trade skills instead of spending money.
7. Preserve Food for Later
Victorians stretched their grocery budget by canning, drying, and pickling food to make it last longer. You don’t need to become a homesteader — even freezing leftovers or buying bulk items and portioning them out can help you avoid waste and save money.
8. Prioritize Simple Entertainment
Without streaming services or expensive outings, Victorian families found joy in simple pleasures like reading, music, or nature walks. You don’t need to spend a lot to make special memories with your family.
Tip: Start a weekly tradition like a family game night, a movie night with popcorn at home, or nature walks to explore your local parks — all for free.
9. Line Dry Laundry
Electric dryers weren’t an option for Victorians — clothes were hung to dry on lines or racks. Line drying not only saves electricity but also helps your clothes last longer.
Encouragement: It’s a small shift that might not seem like much, but every penny saved is a penny that can go toward your debt payoff. Plus, there’s something peaceful about fresh air-dried laundry.
10. Find Beauty in Simplicity
Victorian homes were often simple but cozy — filled with handmade blankets, books, and practical comforts. You don’t need a Pinterest-perfect home to create a warm, welcoming space. Focus on what brings your family joy without spending a lot of money.
Encouragement: Your home doesn’t have to be perfect to be full of love. A clutter-free corner, a lit candle, or a warm meal can make your space feel rich without spending a dime.
Final Thoughts
Frugality isn’t about deprivation — it’s about finding freedom. The Victorians lived with less, not because they had to, but because they valued making the most of what they had. If you’re trying to get out of debt, know that every small choice you make to save, reuse, or do without is a powerful step toward a brighter future.
You’re not alone in this journey — you’re part of a long legacy of people who have faced hard times with courage and creativity. Keep going. The habits you’re building now will serve you long after your debt is gone.
For more timeless money-saving wisdom, check out these energy-saving tips from the 1970s that can help you cut your utility bills today!
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