Try the “1–2 Switch” Rule, Skip the Auto Shop Add-Ons — Plus 3 More Cost-Cutters for the Week

Save money this week with five simple tips, including DIY car maintenance, homemade lunch meat and low-cost ways to enjoy time with friends.

1. Turn Leftover Roasts Into Lunch Meat

Deli meat is convenient—but it’s also one of the pricier items in the grocery cart.

A simple swap: make your own.

When you cook a roast or bake a ham, go a little bigger than you need for that meal. Instead of letting leftovers sit in the fridge too long, slice them thin and use them for sandwiches.

An electric carving knife makes it easier, but a sharp knife works too. Freeze what you won’t use right away so nothing goes to waste.

You end up with ready-to-go lunch meat for a fraction of the cost—and you skip the wait at the deli counter.

How Much This Can Save: Homemade lunch meat can cost significantly less per pound than deli slices, especially when you’re already cooking the main meal.

2. Skip the Easy Auto Add-Ons (and Do Them Yourself)

It’s easy to say yes when you’re already at the shop.

You go in for an oil change and suddenly you’re paying extra for air filters, wiper blades or other quick fixes that don’t feel expensive in the moment—but add up fast.

Many of these are simple to handle on your own:

• Engine and cabin air filters
• Windshield wipers
• Bulbs
• Topping off fluids (some places do this for free with other services)

These are usually inexpensive parts and take just a few minutes to swap out at home.

The next time a shop suggests an “easy add-on,” it’s worth pausing. You may be able to do the same job yourself for much less.

3. Check for Free or Low-Cost Landscaping Supplies First

It’s tempting to head straight to the store when you need mulch, plants or edging.

But a quick search can often turn up cheaper—or even free—options.

Check local listings, neighborhood groups or simply ask around. People regularly give away:

• Extra plants
• Mulch or wood chips
• Stones or bricks
• Garden borders

It takes a little more time, but it can cut your landscaping costs in a big way.

Then, buy only what you truly can’t find or replace.

4. Swap Expensive Nights Out for Low-Cost Fun

Dinner out used to be a go-to for spending time with friends. But when meals start running $20 or more per person, it adds up quickly.

A simple shift can keep the social time without the high cost.

Look for low-cost or free options instead:

• Outdoor concerts
• Minor league games
• Free museum days
• Community events

You still get the time together—often with more variety and less pressure to spend.

Many people find these outings end up being more memorable than another restaurant meal.