11 Easy Money-Saving Strategies for Cutting Down on Impulse Buying

Today I’m talking about impulse buying. Do you often catch yourself making unplanned purchases, only to feel that wave of regret afterward?

We all know those moments when a random ad, a “too-good-to-pass-up” sale, or even boredom makes us buy something we absolutely don’t need? (Looking at you, a sleek-shaped humidifier I swore would change my life.) While these purchases might give us a quick dopamine hit, they can wreak havoc on our budgets. But don’t worry—you’re not alone, and there are ways to curb the habit without feeling deprived.

Trust me—I’ve stared at my bank statement, wondering how a “quick” trip up town ended up costing me $500. 

Over the years, I’ve picked up some true money-saving strategies to help me resist impulse buys, and I wanted to share them with you!

Before I go through the 11 Money-Saving Strategies, it helps to understand the Impulse Purchase Cycle first. 

What is the Impulse Purchase Cycle?

The impulse purchase cycle is the pattern or process that leads to unplanned or spontaneous buying decisions. It often involves several stages, which can vary slightly depending on the situation, but it generally follows this pattern:

The Impulse Purchase Cycle (Simplified)

The Temptation

• When something catches your eye.

The Feeling

• That rush of excitement or curiosity.

The Excuse

• Convincing yourself why it’s a good idea.

The Buy

• Making the purchase on impulse.

The Regret

• Realizing you didn’t need it.

The Repeat

• Falling into the same habit again.

When you can understand the impulse purchase cycle it allows you to take a step back and recognize your thinking patterns during a shopping frenzy. This awareness allows you can take control and develop strategies—like the ones I have outlined below—to reduce your impulse buying and make more mindful decisions.

11 Easy Money-Saving Strategies for Cutting Down on Impulse Buying

1. Understand Your Triggers

Impulse buying isn’t just about wanting shiny things—it’s about emotions. Stress, boredom, or even excitement can send you straight to the checkout. For me, boredom-shopping was my weakness. Strolling around a store looking at everything, I’d convince myself I needed a new pair of shoes or a new gadget for my kitchen. Spoiler alert: the shoes and all the gadgets didn’t fix anything.

What You Can Do:

• Track Your Triggers: Keep a journal of when and why you make impulsive purchases. Or at least be aware every time you’re out shopping. I will often take a moment and ask myself, “Why are you really wanting this item right now?”

• Create Alternatives: Instead of shopping, find healthier stress-relievers like a walk, binge-watching your favorite show, or journaling.

Discover 8 Incredible Ways How Daily Journaling Can Improve Your Mental Health in 2024

“If you find something else you truly love to do, you’ll feel excited to leave the stores behind and make more time for your hobby.“

2. Stick to a Shopping List

A shopping list and blinders for your eyes are your best defense against overspending. Whether you’re at the grocery store or browsing online, your list keeps you focused and reminds you of what you actually need. (Though, I’ll admit, I still save plenty of things to my favorite lists online!)

Tip:

Before heading out, double-check your pantry, wardrobe, or wherever you store the stuff you’re tempted to buy. Chances are, you already have that cute sweater in three colors or enough pasta to feed an army. 

I know this might be easier said then done, but this helps me…

When you go into stores, HAVE A CLEAR MISSION to grab only the items you need. Avoid browsing the aisles—stay focused, get in, and get out as quickly as you can.

3. Adopt a Waiting Period

Ever heard of the 24-hour or 1-month rule? It’s my go-to shopping rule I always use. If you’re tempted to buy something on a whim, wait 24 hours (or longer for big-ticket items). Nine times out of ten, the urge will fade.

Here’s a personal example: I once added a $300 air fryer to my cart because everyone online raved about how “amazing” it was. After giving it a day, I realized my oven works perfectly well, and I didn’t need another bulky appliance cluttering my kitchen.

4. Limit Exposure to Temptation

“The less you see, the less you want.“

This one was huge for me. I unsubscribed from every promotional email and unfollowed all the “sale alerts.”

Try This:

• Use ad blockers on your browser.

• Mute notifications from shopping apps (or delete the apps altogether).

• Replace mindless online browsing with something productive—like learning a new recipe or reading a book.

5. Create a Fun Money Budget

Here’s the deal: cutting out all fun spending can backfire. Instead, allocate a small amount each month for guilt-free purchases. This will help you avoid shopping sprees because you feel “deprived.”

6. Track Your Spending

Knowledge is power. When I first started tracking my spending, I was shocked to see how much I spent on clothes and random Amazon buys. (Did I really need every nail colour of the rainbow?) Once I had a clear picture, it was easier to cut back.

Tools to Try:

• Apps like Mint or YNAB (You Need a Budget).

• Good ol’ Excel or Google Sheets (definitely my go-to). 

7. Practice Mindful Spending

Here’s a simple trick: ask yourself, “Does this purchase align with my goals?” If the answer is no, walk away. For me, keeping my long-term goals (like saving for a dream home) front and center helped me resist buying yet another unnecessary kitchen gadget.

Other things I still ask myself are…

• “Will this retain its value over time?”

• “Does it have enough positive reviews, and is it high-quality enough to last?”

• “Is this something I truly need in my life at this moment?”

• “Is there something I already own that can serve the same purpose?”

“THE IMPORTANT THING: FIND QUESTIONS THAT RESONATE WITH YOU.”

Here’s an example: I use my old NutriBullet to grind coffee beans once a week instead of relying on my newer one. Although the old one leaks when blending liquids, it’s perfect for dry ingredients. I also repurpose it to turn leftover bread into breadcrumbs for cooking—nothing goes to waste!

LITTLE STORY: During the years I saved 50% of my income, I consistently asked myself the questions above—especially, “Will this hold its value?” After buying and building houses for years, my husband and I even stopped decorating extensively, as it felt like a waste of money knowing we’d move every few years to build again. For more tips, check out How to Save 50% of Your Income.

These days, I still find it hard to put money into anything that doesn’t hold its value. So, THE MORAL OF THE STORY…

“The longer you stick to these smart habits, the easier they are to maintain.”

8. Shop with Cash

Using cash instead of cards can make spending feel real. Once the cash is gone, it’s gone—no dipping into your credit limit. 

However, if you’re confident you can resist impulse buying, consider using a credit card to earn points—just be sure to pay it off in full each month.

9. Declutter Before Buying

Sometimes, you don’t need to buy more stuff—you need to rediscover what you already have. After decluttering my closet, I realized I didn’t need another black sweater. (I already had six!)

10. Find Accountability

Share your goals with a friend or family member who can help keep you accountable. 

My husband and I made a deal: if either of us wanted to make an impulsive purchase, we had to text or talk to each other first. Simply having that checkpoint made me pause and rethink our shared goals and what we were saving for. We also share accounts and are completely transparent in everything we do. 

We began holding each other accountable when we made the decision to pay off our home in just five years. If you’re curious about how you can do it too? Check out this post below for all the details!

How to Pay Off Your Mortgage Faster: 6 Proven Strategies for Financial Freedom

11. Reward Yourself Wisely

Treating yourself isn’t bad—it’s all about balance. Plan small rewards for hitting your financial goals, like a coffee date or a new book. This way, you’re less likely to go on a spending spree.

Curbing impulse purchases isn’t about depriving yourself—it’s about aligning your spending with what truly matters. By understanding your triggers, setting boundaries, and practicing mindful spending, you’ll not only save money but also feel more in control of your finances. And when you’re finally in control of your finances, it will feel like you’re in charge of your future, and that’s an incredibly relieving feeling.

Do you have some great money-saving strategies? 

What’s your favorite? 

Share it below—I’d love to hear how you’re able to stay in control of your spending!

Thank You Credits: Cover photo by Leeloo The First on Pexels.