10 habits of people who never overspend

Some people just seem to have it together when it comes to money - they breeze through the month without falling into their overdraft, while the rest of us are searching down the back of the sofa for loose change in the run up to payday. So, what’s their secret?

It turns out it’s not necessarily about how much you earn, it’s about good spending habits. Here are 10 habits of people who never overspend.

1. 🧾 They always have a budget

People who are on top of their finances don’t tend to wing it, they budget. They know exactly what’s coming in and where every penny’s going. Having a budget encourages you set priorities and avoid unaffordable splurges.

👉 Top tip: Use our free budgeting tool to get started.

2. 🚫 They set spending limits, and stick to them

Whether it’s a night out, a holiday or the weekly food shop, they set clear spending limits. More importantly, they don’t treat those limits as flexible. It’s that discipline that keeps them on track month after month.

3. 🔍 They shop around

They never pay more than they have to. Whether it’s trainers or train tickets, they compare prices and look for deals before buying. And they know that loyalty doesn’t always pay, so they use price comparison sites before buying things like insurance and mobile phone contracts.

4. 🛑 They don’t buy on impulse

Tempted by a flash sale? These savvy spenders take a breath. They pause before making a purchase, ask themselves if they really need it and often walk away. Impulse spending is the enemy of good budgeting, and they know it.

👉 Try the 24-hour rule: wait a day before buying non-essentials.

5. 💵 They only use cash on nights out

Tapping your card at the bar can feel painless, until the next morning. People who don’t overspend take cash and leave the cards at home. This simple trick can prevent a financial hangover.

6. 🤝 They aren’t afraid to haggle

Whether they’re buying second-hand on Vinted or looking for a better broadband deal, they ask for a discount. A polite message or phone call can often get you a better price, and they know it never hurts to try.

7. ♻️ They buy second-hand

They don’t see second-hand as second-best. From clothes and furniture to gadgets and books, they buy pre-loved wherever possible. It’s cheaper, more sustainable and often just as good.

8. 🛒 They shop with a list

You know what it’s like if you go to the supermarket without a list – you end up buying enough to feed an army and then watch half of it go off before you get round to eating it. People who avoid overspending write a shopping list and stick to it. No more getting distracted by ‘bargain’ items you didn’t plan for.

9. 🍽️ They plan their meals

Meal planning helps you cut waste and costs. Planning what you’re going to eat each week, helps you avoid last-minute takeaways and endless ‘what’s for dinner?’ decisions. It also makes grocery shopping quicker, cheaper and more intentional.

10. 💰 They move spare money into savings

Leaving spare cash in your current account means you’re more likely to spend it. Move it into a savings account, even if it’s just a tenner. Out of sight, out of mind. And once your savings start to build, it’s comforting knowing you’ve got a safety net in case you’re hit with unexpected expenses.