Raising a family is expensive—but you don’t have to spend a fortune to have a happy, healthy family! These 15 practical frugal family tips will help you save money without feeling deprived.

Here are 15 ways to be frugal with a family.

1. Meal Plan and Prep Together

Meal plan as a family, and let kids help with meal prep. This reduces food waste, saves money, and teaches kids valuable cooking skills.

2. Shop at Thrift Stores for Kids’ Clothes

Kids grow fast—buy clothes at thrift stores or consignment shops instead of new. You can find great, like-new clothes for a fraction of the price.

3. Borrow Instead of Buy

Borrow things like books, toys, and tools from friends, family, or the library instead of buying new.

4. Have Family Game Nights at Home

Instead of going out for entertainment, have game nights, movie nights, or craft nights at home. It’s cheaper and more fun!

5. Pack Lunches for School/Work

Pack lunches for school and work instead of buying them—this can save $10-20 per person per week!

6. Grow a Garden Together

Grow a small garden together—even a few herbs or tomato plants can save you money and teach kids about where food comes from.

7. Take Advantage of Free Community Events

Many communities have free events—concerts in the park, festivals, library programs—take advantage of them for free family fun!

8. Use a Clothes Swap

Organize a clothes swap with other families—swap clothes your kids have outgrown for new-to-you clothes!

9. Buy Generic Brands

Buy generic brands for food, toiletries, and cleaning supplies—they’re just as good as name brands but way cheaper!

10. Avoid Overbuying Toys

Kids don’t need a ton of toys—rotate toys so they feel new, or encourage creative play with things like cardboard boxes!

11. Cook One Big Meal for the Week

Cook a big meal on Sunday (like chili or lasagna) that you can eat for several days—saves time and money!

12. Use Public Transit or Carpool

Save on gas and car maintenance by using public transit, carpooling, or walking/biking for short trips.

13. Turn Off Lights and Electronics

Teach kids to turn off lights, TVs, and electronics when not in use—saves money on utilities!

14. Plan Free Family Outings

Instead of going to expensive places, go to parks, hikes, or beaches—free and fun!

15. Involve Kids in Money Talks

Talk to kids about money from a young age—teach them about budgeting, saving, and making smart choices.

Frugal Family Tip	Why It Works
Meal Plan Together	Saves money, teaches skills
Thrift Store Clothes	Kids grow fast—saves money
Borrow Instead of Buy	Saves money, reduces waste
Home Game Nights	Free fun, family bonding
Pack Lunches	Saves $10-20 per person per week
Garden Together	Saves money, teaches kids
Free Community Events	Free family fun
Clothes Swap	Free new-to-you clothes
Buy Generic	Saves 20-50%
Avoid Overbuying Toys	Saves money, encourages creativity
Big Sunday Meal	Saves time and money
Public Transit/Carpool	Saves on gas/maintenance
Turn Off Electronics	Saves on utilities
Free Family Outings	Free fun
Involve Kids in Money Talks	Teaches good habits

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I get my family on board with frugal living?

Involve them in the process, explain your goals, and celebrate small wins together! Show them the benefits—like saving for a family vacation.

What if my kids want expensive things?

Talk to them about wants vs. needs, and have them save up for things they want. Teach them the value of money by letting them earn and save.

Is it possible to be frugal and still have fun?

Absolutely! Frugal living is about being intentional—you can still have fun, just choose cheaper or free activities instead of expensive ones.

Final Thoughts

Being frugal with a family is about making intentional choices and working together. Try a few of these tips, see what works for your family, and keep adding more. Over time, you’ll save more money, bond as a family, and teach your kids valuable money skills!