Feeling Stressed About Rising Food Prices and Increasing Bills? 30 Ways to Mitigate Costs

The cost of living continues to rise, with food prices and household bills taking a significant toll on many people’s budgets. 

If you’re feeling stressed about making ends meet, you’re not alone. 

However, there are plenty of practical ways to ease the strain and stretch your money further. 

Here are 30 strategies to help you cope with rising costs and keep your finances under control.

1. Plan Your Meals

A weekly meal plan prevents impulse purchases and ensures you use what you have efficiently.

2. Write a Shopping List – and Stick to It

Avoid distractions in the supermarket by following a well-thought-out list based on your meal plan.

3. Buy in Bulk (When Sensible)

Staples like rice, pasta, and tinned goods are often cheaper in larger quantities. Share bulk purchases with family or friends if storage space is an issue.

4. Switch to Own Brands

Supermarket own-label products are often just as good as branded versions but cost significantly less.

5. Make the Most of Discounts and Cashback Offers

Use loyalty cards, cashback apps, and vouchers to maximise savings on your regular purchases.

6. Reduce Food Waste

Use leftovers creatively, store perishables properly, and freeze excess food to avoid unnecessary waste.

7. Batch Cook and Freeze Meals

Cooking in bulk saves time, reduces energy use, and ensures you always have a meal ready instead of opting for expensive takeaways.

8. Shop at Budget Supermarkets

Chains like Aldi, Lidl, and local markets often have lower prices than premium supermarkets.

9. Try ‘Yellow Sticker’ Shopping

Look out for reduced-price food towards the end of the day in supermarkets—these are often perfectly fine to eat.

10. Use Frozen and Tinned Alternatives

Frozen vegetables, fruit, and fish are often cheaper and last longer than fresh options, reducing waste.

11. Compare Prices Online

Use supermarket comparison websites to find the best deals before heading out to shop.

12. Grow Your Own Food

Even a small herb garden on a windowsill can cut costs. If you have outdoor space, consider growing vegetables like potatoes, lettuce, or tomatoes.

13. Cook from Scratch More Often

Pre-packaged meals and ready-made sauces are often more expensive than homemade versions. Cooking from scratch can save money and be healthier.

14. Embrace Meat-Free Meals

Meat can be costly, so try incorporating more plant-based meals using lentils, beans, and chickpeas.

15. Use Cheaper Protein Sources

Eggs, tinned fish, tofu, and legumes offer excellent protein at a fraction of the cost of meat.

16. Avoid Buying Bottled Drinks

Tap water is free—invest in a reusable bottle to cut down on unnecessary expenses.

17. Make Your Own Coffee and Lunches

Daily takeaway coffees and shop-bought lunches quickly add up. Preparing your own at home is a simple way to save.

18. Take Advantage of Community Resources

Food banks, community kitchens, and “pay-what-you-can” cafes can help those in need of extra support.

19. Reduce Your Energy Usage in the Kitchen

Use a slow cooker, air fryer, or microwave instead of the oven, and always cook with lids on pots to conserve heat.

20. Adjust Your Thermostat

Lowering your heating by just one degree can make a noticeable difference to your energy bill.

21. Use Energy-Saving Light Bulbs

LED bulbs use less electricity and last longer, reducing costs over time.

22. Turn Off Standby Appliances

Unplugging electronics when not in use can cut down on wasted electricity.

23. Wash Clothes on a Cooler Setting

Most laundry can be cleaned effectively at 30°C, using less energy than hotter washes.

24. Dry Clothes Naturally

Using a clothesline or drying rack instead of a tumble dryer saves on electricity.

25. Insulate Your Home

Draught excluders, thermal curtains, and door seals help retain heat and lower heating bills.

26. Car Share or Use Public Transport

Cut down on petrol costs by carpooling or using buses and trains when possible.

27. Review Your Subscriptions

Cancel or downgrade unnecessary streaming services, magazine subscriptions, or gym memberships.

28. Find Free Entertainment

Many museums, parks, and local events offer free or low-cost entertainment options.

29. Shop Second-Hand

Charity shops, online marketplaces, and car boot sales are great places to find clothes, furniture, and household items at a fraction of the cost.

30. Create a Budget and Stick to It

Tracking your spending helps you understand where your money goes and identify areas where you can cut back.

Final Thoughts

While rising food prices and increasing bills can feel overwhelming, there are plenty of ways to reduce costs and manage your household budget more effectively. Small changes can add up to significant savings over time. By taking control of your spending, you can reduce financial stress and feel more secure.

Do you have any cost-saving tips that work for you? Share them in the comments below!