Smart Ways to Save Money in 2025 for Gen Z

Saving money can feel like a challenge, especially if you’re juggling student loans, subscriptions, and the occasional (more like frequent) impulse buy. But 2025 is the year to take control of your finances! Whether you’re saving for a big goal or just trying to stretch your budget, save some money or to take an extra shot at the bar, these practical tips can help you keep more cash in your pocket.

Let’s dive into some easy, actionable strategies to save money every day, from groceries to gadgets, without sacrificing your lifestyle.

1. Save Money in Your Daily Life

Small changes in your daily habits can make a big difference. Here’s how to get started:

Avoid Impulse Buys

Before you click “confirm purchase,” wait 24 hours. This simple trick helps you decide if it’s a real need or just a want. Better yet, make a personal budget and stick to it—knowing your limits makes it easier to say no.

Cut Down on Utility Bills

Heating and hot water are big energy hogs. Lower your thermostat a few degrees when you’re out or sleeping, and wash your clothes in cold water with a detergent made for it. Investing in a smart thermostat can save you even more over time. Also, don’t forget to TURN OFF YOUR LIGHTS when you leave, it really adds up, trust me. 

Brew Coffee at Home

Skip the daily coffee runs. Making your coffee at home saves hundreds of dollars a year—and you can still enjoy your favorite brew. There are some many cool brands you can check out in your grocery store, I will definitely miss Starbucks, Tim Hortons and Mcdonald’s but I need to be smarter about how I spend. 

Choose Store Brands

When grocery shopping, opt for house brands instead of name brands. They’re usually just as good but cost a lot less. I mean Walmart and Food Basics are not that bad, is Farmers Pick really that good?? Or maybe try buying in bulk at a cheaper cost from a place like Costco. 

2. Smarter Grocery Shopping

Groceries can eat up a big chunk of your budget, but with these tips, you’ll shop smarter:

Shop After Eating

Avoid grocery shopping on an empty stomach. A quick snack before you go can save you from unnecessary purchases. Trust me, I really just throw anything that looks good in my cart, aka chocolate, candy, and drinks. No wonder I have not hit that summer body goal for the past 5 years…

Use Flyers and Budget Apps

Check out online flyers or use apps that highlight the best grocery deals. Stick to your shopping list and only buy what you need. Find the steals and deals!!

Skip Pre-Packaged Foods

Pre-cut veggies and grated cheese may be convenient, but they’re overpriced. Grab a knife or grater and DIY! It’s also a great workout to get toned arms. 

3. Save on Transportation

Transportation doesn’t have to drain your wallet. Here are some ways to save:

Bike or Walk When You Can

Not only does it save on gas, but it’s also great for your health. Don’t own a bike? Look into bike-sharing programs in your city or check out Facebook marketplace. A lot of baby boomers are selling their stuff for dirt cheap. Take advantage. 

Carpool or Use Public Transit

Carpooling or sharing rides with coworkers or classmates can cut costs. If you’re driving less often, let your insurance company know—you might qualify for a lower premium. 

4. Cut Costs on Internet, TV, and Cell Phones

Monthly bills can add up, but these tips can help reduce them:

Audit Your Subscriptions

Do you really need three streaming services? Rotate your subscriptions when you are binging a specific show or cancel the ones you rarely use. You are paying monthly anyway, just pay for the month you need it. 

Negotiate Your Plan

Call your service provider and ask for a discount. Providers often offer better rates to keep customers. The best time to do this is April during tax season, Black Friday, and the Christmas holidays. Don’t say I didn’t put on this trick, I am not a gatekeeper. 

Keep Your Phone Longer

Resist upgrading to the latest model. If you need a new phone, consider buying second-hand—it’s much cheaper. Honestly, the new iPhone is not that much of an upgrade, it is literally the same thing… don’t fall for it. Unless you got the new iPhone 16, then I am a little jealous. 

5. Save Money as a Student

Being a student often means living on a tight budget, but these hacks can help:

Buy Used Textbooks

Check out second-hand book sales on campus or look for digital versions of your textbooks, which are often cheaper. Or honestly, don’t buy any at all.. There are tons of facebook group chats that you can be on, where the smart kids will just explain and give answers to things for you anyway. Or just ask chatgpt :)  that is better than any stupid textbook---> and way cheaper. 

Claim Student Discounts

From food to transportation, your student card unlocks discounts everywhere. Keep it around at all times, you never know who might accept it, for you to save those extra dollars that add up. 

6. Budget-Friendly Travel Tips

Dreaming of a vacation? Travel doesn’t have to break the bank:

Travel Locally

Explore hidden gems in your own province, state, city. Road trips and local adventures can be just as fun as international travel. There are many beautiful places all around us, don’t knock it till you try it. Maybe you can put your friends on the newest hidden gem. 

Set Flight Alerts

Use airfare alert tools to find the best deals. Flexibility with travel dates can also save you a lot on flights. If you don’t know already, flights are always the cheapest on Tuesdays. So I would buy it then. 

Avoid Roaming Charges

If traveling abroad, get a local SIM card or an eSIM for affordable data and calls.This has totally changed my travel experience. It is pretty affordable and I have 5G data wherever I go, so I never get lost and that google translate definitely helps out with the locals. 

7. Make the Most of Financial Services

Your bank and employer offer tools to help you save. Here’s how to use them:

Automate Your Savings

Set up automatic transfers to your savings account. It’s a “set it and forget it” way to build your emergency fund. Get rid of the money before you spend it !!!

Pay Off Credit Cards Monthly

Avoid interest by paying your balance in full every month. If you carry a balance, even a $2,000 purchase could cost you double in interest. And it will ruin your credit score, which school teaches you nothing about. Be aware of it and protect your future. 

Contribute to Employer Plans

Take advantage of employer-sponsored pension or group RRSP plans. Many employers match contributions, giving you free money toward retirement. MAX these out always!! The benefits are amazing. 

Start Small, Save Big

Saving money doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Start with the tips that feel easiest to you—like cutting back on takeout or reviewing your monthly subscriptions—and build from there. Remember, small habits add up over time, and every dollar you save brings you closer to your financial goals.

Saving as a Gen Z is about being smart, flexible, and resourceful. The sooner you start, the sooner you’ll be ready for whatever life throws your way—whether it’s a dream trip, a new car, or a rainy day fund. Happy saving!