Frugal living does not have to be about a life of depravation. The frugal life is one of thrifty shopping, careful choices, and a saving mindset. Making just a few adjustments in five areas of your normal life will help you become a frugal person.

Groceries are one of the most expensive items on any budget. Be sure to take a list with you to the grocery store; this will help to cut back on impulse items. If you are still concerned, then why not take a friend shopping with you. Exchange lists at the store and each of you can gather up the other’s groceries, virtually eliminating all impulses. And don’t forget to cut out coupons. It may take some time, but it will add up in the end.

Frugal people still vacation, they just do it wisely. You can really stretch the vacation dollars by traveling during the shoulder season or off-season, although it’s a good idea to check to see if local attractions will be open if you want to attend. Since much of a vacation budget goes to housing, why not spend your vacation visiting family? There is the joy of bonding with relatives, but you also get to stay for free.

Being frugal doesn’t mean that you have to stay home all the time. If you do a little looking around, you are sure to find that many of the museums, zoos, botanical gardens and other places offer free or discount days. For those that don’t offer the free days you can check to see if a group discount is available and then call up your other frugal friends for an outing. For movie nights, check with the local library to see if they have movies available to check out. There are lots for you to do, and you can do much of it without ever spending a dime.

Clothing is one of those items that civilized society has deemed necessary. The clothing manufacturers, who realize our dilemma, often charge outrageous prices. Buying out of season (buying winter clothes in the summer and vice versa) will help to cut this item in your budget.

Thrift stores, consignment shops, and second-hand stores all offer great values on clothing. You can find designer clothes with tags still intact. Find some frugal friends who are willing to trade clothes. Hand me downs are great!

Buying a brand new car is rarely the best choice. A stylish new car is certainly nice to have and drive, but not worth the money you will have to part with to get it. Making a cash purchase after patiently saving will leave you better off in the end.

Just having the money in hand will give you a lot of negotiating power. Today, many of the used car dealers include some type of warranty with their cars, making the purchase even more secure.