GOBankingRates works with many financial advertisers to showcase their products and services to our audiences.

These brands compensate us to advertise their products in ads across our site.

This compensation may impact how and where products appear on this site.

A retired couple sits with their financial adviser.

Commitment to Our Readers

GOBankingRates' editorial team is committed to bringing you unbiased reviews and information.

you could read more about oureditorial guidelinesand our products and servicesreview methodology.

Luckily, there are plenty of tips to help you trim the fat fromyour budgetwithout sacrificing the good life.

facebook sharing button

Bye-Bye, Plastic Bags!

Marguerita Cheng, CFP and expert contributor atAnnuity.org, is all about ditching those pesky plastic bags.

I live in Maryland, and we have had bag tax for a while, she said.

twitter sharing button

you’re free to leave reusable bags in your car.

Not only is this good for your wallet, but it is also good for planet Earth.

So, grab some cute reusable bags and save the planet while you save some cash.

linkedin sharing button

That way, all you need is your own reusable water bottle.

Michael Collins, CFA, founder and CEO ofWinCap Financial, agreed.

So instead, invest in a reusable water bottle and use a filter at home if needed.

email sharing button

Cable TV: The Silent Budget Killer

Remember when cable TV was the hottest thing ever?

Well, times have changed, and so should your TV habits.

Cheng said you should consider reevaluating the cost and benefit of cable.

You may be paying for channels that you dont watch, she said.

Depending on your situation, streaming may be more appropriate for your needs.

Who needs 500 channels when youve got Netflix and a comfy couch, right?

Subscription Overload

Speaking of subscriptions, Cheng warned about the sneaky costs of automatic deliveries.

Not just magazine subscriptions, but subscriptions forall goods and services.

Consider reevaluating to ensure that the delivery frequency meets your needs, she shared.

Do you really need a new razor every week?

Or enough toilet paper to survive the apocalypse?

Cleaning Products: Less Is More

Time to channel your inner DIY goddess!

Cheng shared some motherly wisdom: My mom has shared many hacks with me.

She also suggested, Simplify your cleaning routine and consider using microfiber cloths instead of so many paper towels.

If appropriate, DIY cleaning products with vinegar, tea tree oil, etc.

Instead, invest in reusable cloth napkins and cleaning cloths that can be washed and used multiple times.

Gadget Overload: Just Say No

Personal finance expertErika Kullbergwarned against falling into the gadget trap.

And its not just kitchen gadgets.

More From GOBankingRates

Share This Article:

The Latest inRetirement