Buy Nothing groups
Local Buy Nothing groups are one of the easiest ways to pick up things for free. People post items they no longer need – from kitchen gear to camping equipment.
Local library
Make the most of your local library – there’s a treasure trove of things to access (including films and magazines) and it’s all free once you’ve joined.
Gumtree and Facebook Marketplace ‘Free’ sections
These two are full of people off‑loading perfectly good things for nothing. Often, it’s because they’re moving or upgrading and can’t be bothered selling. You’ll find beds, TVs, outdoor settings, baby gear, mirrors, leftover paint, tiles and plenty more.
Community swaps
Look out for local swap events – things like clothes swaps, book swaps, tool swaps, even plant swaps. You usually turn up with a few items, take what you like, and leave the rest. It’s casual, social and you might walk away with something genuinely useful. Keep an eye on local Facebook groups, councils or community centres for events.
Tool libraries
Rather than buying a drill you’ll use once, see if your area has a tool library. These are places where you can borrow tools like you would a library book. There is usually a small fee to join but you get access to a wide range of items – perfect for DIY jobs, home repairs or one‑off projects.
Reusing and repurposing your own stuff
Before you shop, have a look around. That old bookshelf might work as pantry shelves and that leftover paint from the shed might be just enough to refresh a small piece of furniture.
Toy libraries
Kids can get bored of toys pretty fast, so to keep costs down and interest up – check out your local toy library. There will be a cost to join, but then all the toys are free.
Download store apps for discounts
Many big‑name shops offer app‑only deals or send you discount codes when you sign up. Even a quick 10 % off can make a difference if you’re buying something big.
Buy out of season
Heaters in summer. Fans in winter. Garden furniture in the off‑season. You’ll often pay far less if you’re happy to shop when no one else is thinking about it.
Wait 24 hours before buying
If you see something you like (especially online), leave it in your ‘cart’ for a day. Some stores will send you a discount to encourage you to complete the purchase. Even if they don’t, you’ll often realise you didn’t really need it after all.
Negotiate – especially for second‑hand
If you’re buying from a seller on Marketplace or Gumtree, don’t be afraid to make an offer. Most people price things expecting a bit of bargaining, and you could save just by asking.
Check supermarket clearance sections
Most big supermarkets have a little corner where they quietly stash discounted items – bent boxes, discontinued stock, seasonal leftovers. You’ll often find heavily marked‑down household goods, pet items and toiletries, not just food.
Coles fuel dockets fuel tips
Save the Coles 5c off fuel dockets – it’s not much but every little helps, as long as you’re not driving further to get the discount (the fuel used would wipe out any savings). Money‑saving fuel tips
Look on the top and bottom shelves in stores
Big brands pay to be placed at eye level. Often, the cheaper options are tucked away – either high up or right near the floor. Always scan up and down before choosing.
Buy basics in plain packaging
Home‑brand or generic versions of everyday items – from batteries to baking paper – are often made by the same manufacturers as the name brands. Try swapping a few and see what actually makes a difference.
Wait for the big retail cycles
Electronics usually go on sale after Christmas, furniture mid‑year, outdoor items at the end of summer. Keep a list of “non‑urgent wants” and check back at the right time of year.
Buy refills instead of the whole product
Lots of things now come in refill pouches – hand‑wash, cleaning spray, even laundry liquid. You usually get more for less, and you’re not paying for another plastic bottle.
Sign up for loyalty programs
Don’t join them all – just the ones you use regularly. You’ll get better‑targeted offers, birthday discounts and occasional freebies.
Pick up catalogues (or browse online ones)
The humble catalogue still does the job. Compare prices between stores before you buy. Some price‑match – others just quietly have the better deal.
Charity shops
Use your local charity shop! You’ll be amazed at the high‑quality items that people give away these days for a fraction of the price of buying new.
