11 Secrets To Saving More Money in 2026

11 Secrets To Saving More Money in 2026

Caitlyn Moorhead  Mon, December 15, 2025  GOBankingRates

If you noticed a drop in your savings account balance this past year, you might be thinking about making a New Year’s resolution to spend less in the coming year. If so, you aren’t alone, as everyone in this economy seems to be struggling to make ends meet.

In fact, financial stress is one of the top concerns for Americans, with many worried about living paycheck to paycheck or never being able to retire. However, with the right strategies, you can cut expenses, build savings and improve your financial health throughout the year.

From tracking your spending to automating contributions, here are 11 smart money-saving tips for 2026 that will help you stick to your goals and build your wealth.

1. Take Advantage of Deals Right Away

January is a bargain hunter’s paradise. For example, you can save up to 90% on holiday decor during after-Christmas sales. Big-box stores are trying to move inventory and their loss is your financial gain for the next December.

Winter coats, apparel and outdoor gear also tend to be deeply discounted after the holidays. Additionally, try using January sales to shop for home goods like sheets, bedding and furniture. 

2. Track Ever-Rising Prices

Some consumer goods, products or foods might rise in price next year, so do your research. Then, limit purchases of these items, stock up when they go on sale, look for lower-priced brands and purchase conventional instead of organic options.

Prices on consumer goods can fluctuate wildly in a matter of days, thanks to tariffs or just the general rising cost of living. To avoid overpaying, it’s wise to use an online price tracker or download an app to monitor rates on items you want to buy.

3. Don’t Miss Out on Price Adjustments or Price Matches

Best Buy and Kohl’s will price-match with competitors, while Target and Walmart will price-match their own inventory at different store locations. This means you can get a price adjustment if items purchased at full price drop in cost within a certain number of days. Typically, if you present proof of the price you paid to the retailer, you will be credited for the difference.

Tired of wasting time driving from store to store to find the best prices? Use free mobile apps such as Red Laser and ShopSavvy to scan product barcodes and see if another retailer is offering the product you want for a lower price. In some cases, you can even use that information to get the store you’re currently shopping at to match a competitor’s price.

4. Use Discounted Gift Cards for Everyday Essentials

Gift cards aren’t just for gifts. If you buy them for less than face value — as you can almost always do at Costco and Sam’s Club — they’re a great way to save money on things you regularly purchase.

You can also find discounted gift cards for supermarkets, drugstores, gas stations, restaurants and hundreds of retailers online at sites such as CardCash and Raise.

5. Unlock Promo Codes on Social Media

TO READ MORE:  https://www.yahoo.com/lifestyle/articles/11-secrets-saving-more-money-140404831.html