`No Buy’ days, `subscription scrutiny’ are among this year’s trends in saving

You’ve really got to hand it to consumers – no matter what twists and turns the cost of living takes, people seem to find new ways to save.

Save with SPP checked out some of the latest trends in saving.

Writing for the U.K.’s Indy 100, Becca Monaghan identifies a number of them for us.

“With the cost of living on the rise, individuals are becoming increasingly focused on smarter ways to manage their finances and secure long-term stability. From creative budgeting techniques to adopting sustainable spending habits and using innovative financial tech, these trends reflect a broader shift towards intentional, efficient money management. It’s all about making every pound count in a world that demands more financial agility,” she begins.

Among these “smart ways” are ideas like “save and splurge,” she continues. This involves “cutting back on day-to-day expenses so they can allocate funds towards special, high-quality purchases or experiences,” Monaghan explains.

There’s also the “No Buy 2025” trend, which “encourages individuals to pause unnecessary expenditures, aiming to save money and reduce overconsumption.”

Next comes “subscription scrutiny.”

“People are reevaluating their subscription services, cancelling those they don’t use, and opting for pay-as-you-go options to maximize flexibility and cut costs. This trend is fueled by the growing awareness of `subscription creep,’ where small, recurring charges add up significantly over time,” writes Monaghan.

The Smart Money Advice blog offers up a few more savings trends.

The blog, citing research from the Canadian Bankers’ Association, notes the use of “digital tools” is helping Canadians save. “Over 70 per cent of Canadians now use banking apps,” the article continues, making automatic saving easier, providing “the ability to track expenses in real time,” and making the “setting of financial goals” easier.

“Thrifting” continues to grow in popularity, the blog adds.

“Another notable trend is the rise in thrifting and second-hand shopping. Retail analysts predict that more Canadians will embrace buying used goods in 2025—not only as a cost-saving measure but also as a way to support sustainability. Gen Z is particularly driving this trend, valuing affordability alongside environmental responsibility,” the blog reports, citing a recent article from CityNews Vancouver.

Other trends the blog has noticed include the fact that we are collectively dining out less and doing a lot more online price comparison research before buying.

The Saving Advice blog presents some other fresh saving strategies.

With grocery costs being particularly impacted by inflation, shoppers are looking for ways to “inflation-proof” their grocery bill, the blog notes.

“Bulk buying, smart pantry stocking, and freezer meals are back in fashion but with a modern twist. Apps now recommend recipes based on sale items in your (area) and social media has made sharing `$50/week meal plans’ wildly popular. People aren’t just saving at the store—they’re learning how to stretch ingredients creatively to cut back on food waste and frequent shopping trips,” the blog reports.

The blog also notes that those of us with credit cards offering such things as points or cashback are being more strategic.

“In the past, using credit cards `responsibly’ just meant paying your bill on time. But in 2025, savvy savers are playing the points game like pros. Travel hackers, cash-back chasers, and promo offer strategists are teaching others how to turn regular spending into serious rewards,” the blog adds.

Similarly, consumers are embracing energy efficiency as “not just a green initiative” but a way to save, the blog tells us.

“Smart thermostats, LED lighting, energy monitors, and tax credits for efficient appliances are part of a growing ‘home optimization’ trend. In 2025, even renters are joining in with portable devices and simple insulation upgrades. Lower monthly bills and incentives are proving that energy efficiency is one of the most overlooked money-saving tools,” the blog concludes.

We can conclude that we’ve come a long way from the days of clipping coupons!

A dollar saved, they say, is a dollar earned. And those earned dollars will come in particularly handy in the future, when you’re no longer working.

While workplace pensions seem to be becoming harder to find, Canadians can opt for a “do-it-yourself” pension through the Saskatchewan Pension Plan. You decide how much to contribute – perhaps using some of the savings tactics listed in this article – and SPP does the rest. We’ll invest your hard-saved dollars in a professionally managed, low-cost pooled fund with a strong track record.

When it’s time to retire, options for your SPP account include the chance of a lifetime monthly annuity payment, or the more flexible Variable Benefit option.

Check out SPP today!

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