10 easy ways to save money on everyday expenses using apps
Saving money in the United States can be challenging with the rising cost of living, but making small daily changes can help you cut expenses without sacrificing your quality of life. In this guide, you’ll find practical and realistic ways to save, along with popular US apps and programs that will help you spend less automatically.
1. Use cashback apps to get money for your everyday purchases
Cashback apps are one of the easiest ways to save money without changing your habits. You simply shop as usual, scan your receipt or activate offers, and receive cashback.
Recommended apps in the US:
- Ibotta – Cashback at Walmart, Target, Costco, Kroger, Publix, and more.
- Rakuten – Ideal for online shopping (Amazon, Best Buy, Macy’s, Kohl’s).
- Fetch Rewards – Scan receipts and earn points toward gift cards.
2.Buy generic brands and save between 20% and 40%.
In the US, generic brands are virtually the same quality, but cost much less.
Tip: Start by replacing basic products like rice, pasta, oats, and cleaning products.
3. Apply the 30/30 rule to avoid impulse purchases
A simple but powerful technique:
If something costs more than $30, wait 30 hours before buying it.
This trick reduces impulse purchases and allows you to analyze whether you really need it.
Use digital coupons and weekly circulars
4. Use digital coupons and weekly circulars
Most major retailers in the US offer digital coupons that change weekly. Combining them with cashback can double your savings.
Recommended digital coupons:
- Coupons.com
- Target Circle App
- Kroger Digital Coupons
- Publix Digital Coupons
Pro Tip: Activate your coupons before going to the supermarket to avoid paying more than necessary.
5. Buy non-perishable products wholesale
Buying in bulk reduces your monthly expenses, especially on basic items.
Best stores for wholesale purchases:
- costco
- Sam’s Club
- BJ’s Wholesale
Ideal products to buy in bulk: toilet paper, bottled water, rice, oats, soap, canned goods.
6. Cook more at home and do meal prep to save up to 60%.
Eating out is expensive in the US (even fast food can cost $12–$16). Preparing your meals at home can lower the cost to $2–$4 per meal.
Useful apps for budget-friendly meal prep:
- Mealime – easy and healthy recipes
- Yummly – personalized recipes
- Budget Bytes – budget-friendly recipes with detailed prices
7. Reduce digital subscriptions you don’t use
Most Americans pay for forgotten subscriptions: streaming, apps, music, games, etc.
Recommended app:
- Rocket Money (Truebill) → detects hidden subscriptions and helps you cancel them with one click.
Tip: Check your subscriptions every 2 months.
8. Use cashback credit cards to get refunds
If you pay on time and don’t go into debt, a cashback card can give you between 1%–5% on purchases.
Popular cards in the USA:
- Chase Freedom Flex
- Discover It
- Citi Custom Cash
Use them only for necessary purchases, such as gasoline or groceries.
9. Compare prices with apps before you buy
Amazon doesn’t always have the best price, even though many people believe it does.
Recommended tool:
- Honey (extensión navegador):
✔ Find coupons
✔ Compare prices
✔ Shows you if the price has dropped
✔ Works at thousands of stores
10. Save on gas by using apps to find the best prices
Save on gas by using apps to find the best prices
Recommended apps:
- GasBuddy – find the cheapest gas station near you.
- Upside – in addition to gas, get cashback at restaurants and stores.
If you drive a lot, this app is pure gold.
Conclusion
Saving money in the United States doesn’t have to be complicated. By simply implementing some of these strategies—like using cashback apps, reviewing subscriptions, buying in bulk, and cooking at home—you can reduce your monthly expenses without making major sacrifices.
The key is to start with small changes that you can maintain long-term.
