21 Practical Hacks to Save Time & Money Every Day
Life’s busy enough without wasting hours or overspending on things we don’t really need. The good news? A few clever tweaks to your daily routine can save both time and money – and often, one leads to the other. Below are 21 practical hacks you can start using straight away and I’ve tried quite a few of them already.
1. Plan meals for the week
Spending ten minutes on a Sunday to write down what you’ll eat each evening can save countless trips to the shops. It also helps you buy only what you need, cutting food waste and your grocery bill.
2. Batch cook and freeze
Cook once, eat twice. Making a big pot of chilli, curry, or soup means you’ve got extra portions to freeze for later. It’s cheaper than buying ready meals and saves you cooking when you’re short on time. There are times you’ll be grateful you’ve got cooked stuff in the freezer.
3. Make your own coffee
Yes, that daily latte might feel like a small treat, but it adds up quickly. Buying a decent travel mug and brewing at home can save you hundreds of pounds a year. Keep café trips as an occasional treat rather than a habit. I have to admit, this one is difficult at times, but since coffee has gone up so much, it’s almost £4 for a cappuccino these days where I live. There is no harm in treating yourself every now and then. I’ve actually written a blog on Self-care and coffee about this one.
4. Use the “two-minute rule”
If a task takes less than two minutes – replying to a message, filing a paper, washing a dish – do it immediately. This simple habit keeps things from piling up and saves you hours of “big tidy” sessions later. Very good advice.
5. Keep a shopping list on your phone
Instead of wandering the aisles, keep an ongoing list in your notes app. Add things as soon as they run out. You’ll avoid duplicate buys and unnecessary extras. Love this one, it’s very helpful. Give it a try.
6. Embrace click & collect
Ordering online for supermarket click & collect not only saves time but also helps avoid impulse buys. No wandering past the snack aisle = less money spent.
7. Cancel unused subscriptions
Streaming platforms, apps, magazines – check your bank statement for sneaky subscriptions. If you haven’t used it in a month, cancel it. I’ll have to do a blog on this subject, because I know so many readers might be interested in this one.
8. Automate your savings
Set up a standing order to move money into savings the day after payday. You’ll never miss it, and your future self will thank you.
9. Pack snacks and a water bottle
Grabbing food and drinks on the go is convenient but costly. Keeping a reusable water bottle and some snacks in your bag saves money and keeps you fuelled without detours. I know, I know, not always possible, but at least give it a try.
10. Lay out clothes the night before
No more rummaging in the morning. This hack saves precious minutes, reduces stress, and keeps you from making questionable last-minute outfit choices.
11. Learn a few “go-to” quick recipes
Having three or four speedy meals up your sleeve – think omelettes, stir-fries, pasta with fresh veg – means you’re less tempted to order a takeaway when you’re tired. Saves both money and time waiting for delivery.
12. Set timers for chores
Put the kettle on and use those three minutes to empty the dishwasher. Set a 15-minute timer for tidying and see how much you can blitz. Turning chores into mini-challenges keeps them manageable.
13. Buy in bulk
Staples like rice, pasta, loo roll, and washing powder are far cheaper when bought in bulk. That’s a good one. Who wants to ever run out of loo rolls.
14. Use cashback and loyalty apps
Download apps like Airtime Rewards, TopCashback or supermarket loyalty schemes. A few clicks here and there can add up to decent savings over time.
15. Declutter regularly
Less clutter = less to clean, less to organise, and more time back. Sell unused items online to make extra cash, or donate to charity to clear space quickly.
16. Put your phone in another room
Scrolling eats hours you didn’t realise you had. Leaving your phone elsewhere while you cook, read, or tidy helps you stay focused and finish faster. One I need to work on. I do find that I sometimes buy from offers via Facebook or Instagram.
17. Stick to a bedtime routine
Getting proper rest means you’re more productive the next day, saving you time through sharper focus. And fewer late-night impulse purchases online can only be good for your wallet.
18. Walk or cycle short journeys
Not only do you save on fuel or bus fares, but you also sneak in some exercise. Win-win.
19. Create a “go bag”
Keep essentials like an umbrella, reusable bag, snacks, and chargers ready by the door. It saves last-minute faffing around and avoids buying yet another plastic bag or overpriced cable.
20. Shop second-hand first
Before buying something new, check charity shops, vintage markets, or online platforms like Vinted. You’ll often find what you need for a fraction of the price.
21. Keep a “maybe later” list
Instead of buying on impulse, write down things you think you want. If you still want them in 30 days, then consider it. Most of the time, you won’t – and that’s money saved. That one I have learnt to follow and I can honestly say it does work.
🌿PracticalGitti Thoughts
Saving time and money isn’t about living a joyless, penny-pinching life. It’s about small, clever changes that make your days run more smoothly and your bank account a little healthier. Try picking just three of these hacks to start with, and see how much difference they make. Over time, these small wins stack up – giving you more freedom, less stress, and a lot more breathing room. Leave in comments how you get on and which one is your favourite hack. Good luck my lovely readers of Practical Gitti. I appreciate you a lot.