You’ve heard of Dry January, but now it’s time for Frugal February, a month dedicated to cutting back, saving more, and spending as little out-of-pocket as possible. Are you up to the challenge? Here are 8 out-of-the-box ideas to help – you’ll be shocked at how tiny changes can add up to big savings!

1.  Use your gift cards

You’re probably overflowing with gift cards given to you during the holiday season. You could save them for a rainy day…if you don’t lose or forget about them until that day arrives. Frugal February is the perfect opportunity to use up your gift cards if you can’t avoid spending entirely. But be warned, you might get sticker shock from how little your allotted amount will get you.

2.  Utilize credit card rewards

Most credit cards today offer incentives in the form of points, miles, or cash back, that have multiple redemption options. If you have upcoming travel plans, consider booking your flight, hotel, or car rental with accumulated bonuses. Cashback can usually be redeemed via statement credit, which will reduce your monthly credit card payment, or deposited directly into your checking account.

3.  Take advantage of the library

If you’re not already a member of your local library you’re missing out on a lot more than just free books. Libraries have adapted to modern times and many offer free e-books, audiobooks, magazines, and music for streaming. With a single (free) library account you could single handedly replace subscriptions to services like Audible, Apple News, and Spotify. 

4.  Reorganize your closet

It’s easy to feel like your wardrobe isn’t up to snuff when you forget what you have. Instead of shopping for new pieces, going through your closet will reacquaint you with articles of clothing you’ve overlooked. You’ll still get the rush of getting something new but without the price tag.

5.  Grocery shop out of the pantry & freezer

Cooking at home is one of the best ways to reduce spending. You can take it one step further by skipping the grocery store and cooking meals based on ingredients you already have in your kitchen. In addition to the cost savings, an added bonus is preventing the waste of food that you otherwise might’ve forgotten you had. If you end up having to go to the store, opt for generic versions – you’ll probably find they’re a fraction of the price but taste virtually the same as what you usually buy.

6.  Dine out early

If you must dine out, try to aim for early evening. Many restaurants try to entice diners between the post-lunch, pre-dinner lull with happy hour. The deals on beverages and appetizers can make a huge difference in your bill at the end of the night.

7.  DIY grooming

Pampering gets pricey quickly (and that’s before considering the cost of tipping). One of the easiest places to cut costs is by eliminating nice-but-unnecessary grooming services. That doesn’t mean you have to forgo your self-care rituals, however. Try your hand at doing these services yourself and who knows, you may even find that with a little practice, you don’t need to go to a professional any longer!

8.  Unsubscribe from newsletters

Your inbox is constantly tempting you with sales, deals, and promos from your favorite brands. It’s easier to ignore the urge to spend if you aren’t constantly getting notifications trying to get you to do so. Anytime you get an email that makes you want to pull out your wallet, hit the unsubscribe button. Don’t worry, you can always re-subscribe once Frugal February is done.