10 Simple Budgeting Hacks That Won’t Make You Feel Broke

Having fun and saving money aren't mutually exclusive! You can save smarter, and Navy Federal Credit Union can help.

1. Use a rewards credit card for essential purchases.

No matter how tight your budget, you're still going to be spending some money — so why not make that money work for you? Using a rewards card to accrue benefits while you pay for essentials like groceries can be win-win if (and only if!) you pay off those purchases as you make them and make sure your balance is at $0 every month.

2. Get a library card.

You don't have to give up things you enjoy to save money. You just need to find a cheaper way to do them. Instead of buying books or DVDs, get a library card! Public libraries are an amazing resource that can help you stay entertained on a budget.

3. Learn to cook a few simple meals.

Being on a budget doesn't have to mean ramen for every meal. Cooking at home is frequently cheaper (and healthier!) than takeout. Learning how to make just a few simple, flavorful meals is an easy way to save money without feeling deprived.

4. Unsubscribe from retailer emails.

If you're an impulse shopper, it's important to keep temptation out of sight and out of mind. Email newsletters touting product launches and sales are designed to make you want to buy, buy, buy, so help yourself stay on track by hitting unsubscribe.

5. Plan your fun spending in advance and only use cash.

Budgets aren't about deprivation — they're about planning. If you want to go shopping or spend a night out with your friends, you should plan ahead. Figure out how much you want to spend and then take the money out in cash. When you've spent that money, you're done. This is an easy way to keep your spending in check while having fun.

6. Embrace no-spend days.

No-spend days are exactly what they sound like: Days where you don't spend a single (non-essential) penny. While that sounds restrictive, try to think of no-spend days as interesting challenge instead of burden. Can you go two or three days a week without spending money on anything except the essentials (bills, groceries, transportation)? If you can't, where do you find yourself getting tripped up? Gamify your savings and then learn from the experience.

7. Sign up for loyalty programs.

Lots of stores have loyalty programs that offer discounts and other benefits to regular customers. Joining these programs at stores you visit regularly — e.g., the grocery store — can help you save money.

8. Negotiate like a boss.

Part of feeling broke is feeling like you don't have any control over your money. Learning to negotiate can help you feel more in control. And negotiating isn't just about asking for a raise; it's about getting the best rate from your cable company and refinancing debt. There are lots of opportunities for you to adjust your financial situation — you just have to be bold enough to ask.

9. Pay yourself first.

If you struggle with saving, try reframing it in your mind. You're not "setting money aside." You're paying yourself. You're making sure you have money on hand for an emergency or a big expense, because you know that's an important of taking care of yourself. And taking care of yourself comes first — you do it before paying your bills or making any discretionary spending. Still need help? Navy Federal’s MakingCents platform provides members the step-by-step information they need to meet their financial goals.

10. Make your savings account work for you.

Did you know there are different kinds of savings accounts? You've probably heard of standard savings accounts, but what about money market accounts and a certificate of deposit? Picking the right account savings account for your goals is an easy way to ensure your money is working as hard as you are.

Start saving today with help from Navy Federal Credit Union! As a member, you have access to a range of savings, checking and loan options, and access to a financial counselor.

All illustrations by Kevin Valente © BuzzFeed

Navy Federal is federally insured by NCUA and is an Equal Housing Lender.