Years ago I was really, really strapped for cash and went back to basics as far as creating budgets and watching where my money went.  I logged in a notebook where every single cent was spent.  I was so surprised to find how fast cash money went through my fingers.  It became a habit for me and I have been tracking every penny ever since.  Though I may want something, usually, if I write it down and think about it, my “shopping fixation” goes away! I make a monthly budget, I make a shopping list, and I also put the extra cash (that I would normally spend or might spend on frivilous things) in savings.  So my number one frugal tip is to keep a watch where every penny is spent and put non essential money in savings!