25 Frugal Living Hacks Every Parent Should Know

Let’s face it – parenting can be expensive. But what if you could raise happy, healthy children and still save for your future? That’s the magic of frugal living. It’s not about cutting corners or denying joy; it’s about making smart, intentional choices that stretch every pound.

Whether you’re tackling the weekly grocery bill, battling rising childcare costs, or simply looking for ways to live better on less, these 25 frugal living tips are here to help. Think of them as real-life hacks from parents who’ve learned to thrive while budgeting, not just survive.

So if you’re committed to parenting on a budget without compromising comfort, values, or fun, read on.

1. Embrace hand-me-down culture

Babies and toddlers grow faster than you can blink. Tap into parent networks, family circles, and local Facebook groups to source clothes, toys, and even cots that are still in excellent shape.

2. Buy used, buy smart

From pushchairs to playpens, second-hand markets are a goldmine. Apps like Vinted, Gumtree, or local baby sales offer nearly-new gear at a fraction of retail.

3. Plan weekly meals

Meal planning reduces waste, curbs takeout temptation, and helps build a predictable grocery budget. Get the kids involved in planning to make it fun.

4. Cook in batches

Double recipes and freeze leftovers. It saves time, reduces food waste, and ensures home-cooked meals are always on standby for busy nights.

5. Swap babysitting with friends

Organise a babysitting co-op. One night you watch their kids, the next they return the favour. It saves money and strengthens your support network.

6. Use libraries like gold mines

Local libraries often offer free story times, crafts, and parent meetups. They also have parenting books and free access to magazines, DVDs, and audiobooks.

7. Join toy and clothing swaps

Many communities host seasonal swap events. Bring what your child has outgrown and leave with items they’ll grow into. Zero cost, high value.

8. Unsubscribe from temptation

Too many sales emails? They create pressure to buy what you don’t need. Unsubscribe from retailers unless you’re actively looking for something.

9. Automate your savings

Set up a small weekly auto-transfer to a separate savings account. Even £5 a week adds up to £200+ a year without effort.

10. Rotate toys to keep things fresh

Rather than buying new ones, hide half the toys in storage and rotate every few weeks. Kids will rediscover forgotten favourites.

11. Declutter and sell what you don’t use

Unused baby gear, maternity wear, or duplicate toys? Sell them online and put the cash toward family experiences or savings.

12. Choose quality over quantity

A well-made cot that lasts through multiple children is better than two budget models that wear out. Invest where it matters most.

13. DIY birthday parties

Skip pricey party venues. Host in the garden or living room with homemade decorations and simple games. Kids remember fun, not expense.

14. Use cashback and voucher apps

Install apps like TopCashback, Honey, or Quidco to earn money back on online purchases. They’re especially helpful for baby supplies.

15. Cancel unused subscriptions

From streaming to monthly snack boxes, many families forget what they’re signed up for. Review every 3 months and cut the extras.

16. Shop off-season

Buy winter coats in spring and swimsuits in autumn. Clearance racks can save you 50% or more.

17. Simplify kids’ wardrobes

A capsule wardrobe means fewer clothes, easier laundry, and less decision fatigue. Think mix-and-match, not fashion overload.

18. Track your spending

Use budgeting apps or a shared Google Sheet to track where every pound goes. Awareness is the first step to smarter choices.

For help setting up a shared plan, check out our guide on how to set up a shared family budget on Google Sheets.

19. Set spending limits on gifts

Agree with friends and family on low-cost gift exchanges, or suggest experience-based gifts like zoo passes, craft kits, or babysitting time.

20. Practice toy minimalism

Children benefit from fewer toys with more engagement. Research shows that cluttered playrooms lead to distracted play. Less is more.

21. Ditch impulse supermarket trips

Stick to a shopping list. Shop with intention, not hunger. And consider click-and-collect to avoid temptation aisles.

22. Learn basic sewing and mending

A button here, a patch there – minor repairs can extend the life of kids’ clothing and save frequent replacements.

23. Embrace no-spend weekends

Plan park picnics, nature walks, library visits, or at-home movie nights. Fun doesn’t have to cost a thing.

24. Use government support

Make sure you’re receiving what you’re eligible for: Child Benefit, Tax-Free Childcare, and Universal Credit. Even small amounts help.

If one parent is leaving the workforce to care for children, read our article on budgeting when a parent leaves the workforce.

25. Celebrate frugality as a family value

Frame it positively. Teach your kids that budgeting is about smart choices, not sacrifice. Gratitude and creativity thrive when money isn’t the main measure of joy.

Final thoughts: Budget living with heart

You don’t need to spend big to parent well. With the right mindset and a few savvy strategies, frugal living becomes a source of empowerment, not deprivation.

These hacks aren’t about perfection. They’re about progress. Find what works for your family, build habits slowly, and keep joy at the centre.

Because every pound saved is another pound you can spend on what truly matters: time, connection, and shared memories.