How to save money?

Have you ever wondered how to save money effortlessly? In a world full of opportunities, there are countless ways to make your daily life smarter and more financially rewarding.

Saving money can be challenging, but with the right tips and strategies, it's easier than you think. Saving isn’t just about sacrifice—it’s about habits and smart decisions. Whether you want to set aside more for unexpected expenses, reduce your monthly costs, or treat yourself without putting too much strain on your wallet, there are plenty of options.

In this article, we’ll show you how to save money easily with simple strategies and modern tools—without making it complicated. Because saving today no longer means counting every penny, but rather making smart choices.

Get an overview

You can only make targeted savings if you know exactly how much you spend each month. The first step to successful saving is to make your finances transparent. Take the time to analyze your income and expenses in detail—ideally over several months. Record not only fixed costs such as rent, electricity, and insurance but also variable expenses such as dining out, shopping, or leisure activities.

Don't forget irregular expenses such as taxes, annual insurance premiums, or major purchases, which often have a big impact. A detailed overview helps you identify hidden cost traps and discover potential savings.

Create a realistic budget that takes both your fixed costs and savings goals into account. Modern apps or digital budget planners make it particularly easy to keep track of your finances. They not only help you automatically categorize your expenses but also remind you if you exceed your budget.

Define your savings goals

Saving is easier when you have a clear goal in mind. Think about what you want to save for—whether it’s a world trip, your own home, a new car, or simply a financial cushion for unexpected expenses. The clearer your goal, the more motivated you’ll be to consistently set money aside.

Start with a realistic amount that doesn’t restrict you but still makes a difference. Even small amounts add up over time to a significant sum. If your income increases or you receive an unexpected bonus, you can adjust your savings rate and gradually increase the amount.

A proven trick is to set up a separate savings account where you regularly transfer money. This prevents you from spending your savings on spontaneous purchases. The best approach is to set up a standing order so that your savings contribution is automatically deducted—this way, you save without even thinking about it.

For even better control, you can divide your savings goals into different categories, such as an emergency fund, vacation, or large purchases. Many banks now offer digital sub-accounts or "savings pots" that help you manage your goals more efficiently.

Stay flexible and adjust your savings habits if your financial situation changes. The key is to make saving a habit—because the sooner you start, the easier it will be to reach your financial goals.

Apply the 60/40 rule

Whether it’s a world trip, buying a home, or simply building a financial cushion—if you want to save, you need the right strategy. The 60/40 rule is a simple method to structure your finances. It divides your income into two categories:

• 60% for living expenses: Rent, food, insurance, transportation, and other necessary costs.

• 40% for savings and leisure: You can allocate part of this amount to your savings goals and use the rest for personal needs.

This flexible model helps you keep your expenses under control while leaving enough room to enjoy life.

The 60/40 rule in practice

Let’s say your monthly net income is CHF 4,500. According to the 60/40 rule, you would divide your budget as follows:

60% for living expenses (CHF 2,700.00)

• Rent and utilities: CHF 1,500.00

• Food and drinks: CHF 500.00

• Insurance (health, liability, etc.): CHF 300.00

• Public transport / car: CHF 200.00

40% for savings and leisure (CHF 1,800.00)

• Emergency savings / retirement fund: CHF 800.00

• Travel and leisure activities: CHF 400.00

• Shopping and hobbies: CHF 300.00

• Other desires / investments: CHF 300.00

This example shows that with the 60/40 rule, you not only keep your fixed costs under control but also remain flexible and plan for your future. If your income increases, you can raise your savings portion or plan for larger investments.

Earn cashback

One of the easiest and most effective ways to save money while shopping is through cashback programs. Whether you're shopping online, at the supermarket, or in a local store – cashback allows you to get a portion of your spent money back. The best part? You don’t have to actively search for discounts or coupons. Cashback works in the background, letting you benefit from your purchases effortlessly.

The appeal of cashback lies in its ability to create a continuous saving flow. With every purchase, you accumulate small amounts that add up over time. Whether you're making big purchases like furniture or electronics or just covering your everyday needs, cashback helps you save at every step. Some cashback systems even offer extra bonuses or special promotions on certain purchases, allowing you to save even more.

Another advantage of cashback is its seamless integration. Many programs are directly linked to your preferred payment methods, whether through a special credit card or an app. This means you don’t have to actively think about it every time to enjoy the benefits. With the right strategy, you can easily get money back without even noticing – making cashback one of the most popular saving methods out there.

Take advantage of the poinz ecosystem

With a free poinz account, you can start earning cashback immediately. Whether you're refueling, visiting the hairdresser, or shopping online – every purchase at a poinz partner store rewards you with a portion of your spent money.

To maximize your cashback, you can use the award-winning poinz credit cards. They expand your poinz ecosystem and help you save money on every transaction worldwide. The best part? poinz credit cards are completely free and come with no annual fees.

Avoid impulse purchases

Spontaneous purchases can quickly blow your budget without you even noticing. The temptation to buy immediately is strong—especially when faced with special offers or enticing advertisements. However, shopping consciously and thoughtfully not only saves money but also prevents unnecessary purchases that often just take up space in your home.

Before making a larger purchase, ask yourself: Do I really need this? This simple question helps you assess your real needs. A proven trick is to sleep on it for at least one night. Often, you’ll notice details you hadn’t considered before and feel more confident about whether the purchase is truly necessary. This short delay can help you avoid unnecessary expenses and ensure that you only buy what you actually need.

In the long run, even small adjustments to your shopping habits can have a big impact. Instead of making impulsive purchases, set clear priorities and think about what truly matters to you. A shopping list can work wonders: it helps you stay focused and buy only what you genuinely need. Stick to your list and avoid being swayed by short-term temptations. This way, you’ll not only keep better track of your expenses but also develop a more mindful and sustainable approach to consumption.

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Resist impulse purchases and ask yourself: Do I really need this?

Take advantage of discounted deals

Many businesses regularly offer promotions with discounts of up to 50% or more—whether for restaurants, massages, leisure activities, or travel. With poinz, you get access to exactly these kinds of offers from local businesses. Discover new deals every month and treat yourself to culinary experiences or relaxing wellness treatments at half the price.

Cancel unused subscriptions

Regularly check your ongoing subscriptions, such as streaming services, gym memberships, or magazines. Monthly costs often creep in for services you barely use or have even forgotten about.

Optimize your contracts

You should also review your insurance, internet, and mobile phone contracts. Comparison tools can help you find cheaper (and possibly even better) alternatives, preventing unnecessary expenses. Switching to a more affordable option can save you a lot of money in the long run.

Automate your savings

Thanks to today's digital solutions, saving money has never been easier—you can do it without constantly thinking about it. Automated systems and tools make saving effortless by working in the background and helping you set aside money with minimal effort. These tools not only save you money but also valuable time by handling many tasks for you.

One example is browser extensions that automatically help you earn cashback when shopping online. Tools like the poinz Cashback Helper make it easy to benefit from the best deals without having to search for discounts. As soon as you create a shopping list and proceed to checkout, the extension ensures that you automatically receive cashback—without lifting a finger.

Additionally, you can automate savings on your bank account by setting up standing orders for your financial goals. A fixed amount is automatically transferred from your salary account to your savings account each month. This way, you save consistently without having to actively think about it and benefit from the advantages of a structured savings plan. These automated solutions not only bring order to your financial life but also help you save successfully and stress-free in the long run.

Plan your meals

Eating out or ordering food can get expensive. With meal prep (short for "meal preparation"), you can plan and cook meals in advance, saving both time and money. Cook larger portions and prepare them for the week ahead—this way, you avoid costly impulse buys and orders.

Buy seasonal and local produce

Seasonal and local foods are not only cheaper but also fresher and more environmentally friendly. Look out for special deals at supermarkets, visit local farmers' markets, or buy directly from farm shops. Apps can also help you discover seasonal vegetables, fruits, and local products.

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Buy seasonal and local products affordably

Get rewarded for your loyalty

Many businesses and brands recognize the importance of loyal customers and offer special programs to reward them for their regular purchases. Participating in these loyalty programs is not only a clever way to save money but also a wonderful opportunity to enjoy exclusive benefits.

One example of this is digital stamp cards, such as those available in the poinz app. Instead of collecting paper stamps with every purchase, you can easily earn points or virtual stamps for every purchase you make at a partner store. Over time, you build a real reward system that not only gives you discounts but often also free products—such as your 10th coffee for free or special gifts.

But that's not all! Diligent point collectors are often rewarded with even more attractive offers that go beyond discounts. You might receive exclusive coupons, vouchers for special occasions, or even entries into sweepstakes available only to highly engaged customers.

By regularly participating in these programs, you can not only convert your loyalty into real money but also strengthen your relationship with your favorite brands and enjoy constantly new, exciting offers.

Buy secondhand

Whether it's clothing, furniture, or electronics – secondhand items are often just as good as new ones, but significantly cheaper. Platforms like Ricardo or thrift stores are ideal places to find bargains.

Embrace sustainability

By being more conscious of your resources, you not only reduce your costs but also do something good for the environment. Small repairs on devices or clothing extend their lifespan and often cost less than buying a new product.
Also, invest in reusable products like water bottles or shopping bags.

Save energy at home

When buying new appliances, look for energy-efficient models, turn off the lights when not needed, and lower your heating temperature by one degree. These small adjustments can make a big difference in your electricity and heating bills.

Conclusion

Saving money doesn't mean giving up everything, but being more conscious of your finances and making smart decisions. Even small changes in your daily routine can make a big difference over time. Often, it's the hidden expenses – the quick coffee to go, the unused subscription, or the spontaneous shopping – that add up without you noticing.

But saving doesn't have to be complicated or hard. With the right strategies, you can achieve financial freedom without having to restrict yourself. Imagine saving just CHF 100.00 each month with clever money-saving tips – that’s CHF 1,200.00 a year! Enough for a weekend trip, a new purchase, or simply more financial security.

What's important is that you take the first step. Start small – review your subscriptions, collect cashback, or set a savings goal. Over time, saving will become a habit, and you’ll notice how easy it becomes. And who knows, maybe your smart handling of money will inspire those around you.

Start today with a small change – your future self will thank you!

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Saving starts with getting an overview and setting goals

FAQs

How can I save the most money?

The key to maximizing savings lies in a combination of mindful spending, smart financial decisions, and utilizing savings tools. Create a budget, reduce unnecessary costs, take advantage of cashback programs and discounts, and automate your savings. Additionally, strategies like meal prep, buying secondhand, and canceling unused subscriptions help save more money in the long run.

How to save money best in Switzerland?

In Switzerland, there are many ways to save money effectively. Use comparison platforms for insurance and mobile contracts, buy seasonal and local products, and benefit from discounts and loyalty programs. Collecting cashback – for example, with a free poinz credit card – is also an easy way to get money back without much effort.

How much money should I save per month?

A general rule is to save at least 10–20% of your income. However, this depends on your individual life circumstances and goals. If you're saving for a larger purchase or emergencies, it might be useful to set aside more. The 60/40 rule is a good guide: 60% for fixed costs, 40% for saving and leisure.

How can I quickly save a lot of money?

If you want to save a lot of money quickly, focus on optimizing your largest expenses. Cut back on unnecessary spending for a period, use cashback and discount deals, cook at home instead of eating out, and sell unused items. Also, reviewing and adjusting fixed costs like rent, insurance, or subscriptions can make a significant difference.

What is the 60/40 rule for saving?

The 60/40 rule is a simple method for structuring your income wisely:

• 60% for fixed costs (rent, groceries, insurance, mobility, etc.)

• 40% for savings & leisure (savings goals, investments, travel, hobbies, shopping)

This model helps you keep track of your expenses while still allowing room for experiences and fun.

How can I save money without major sacrifices?

Saving money doesn’t mean having to give up everything. Small adjustments in daily life, like using cashback, taking advantage of discount offers, or avoiding impulse buys, can already make a big difference. Optimizing fixed costs like mobile contracts or subscriptions also helps without drastically changing your lifestyle.

Which apps help with saving money?

There are numerous apps that help you manage your finances and save while shopping. These include budget apps like Spiir or Budgetbakers, cashback apps like poinz, and comparison platforms like Moneyland or comparis.ch for cheaper contracts.

Why is cashback worth it for saving?

Cashback allows you to get a portion of your spending back without actively thinking about it. Especially with free credit cards like those from poinz, you can save automatically, whether you’re shopping, fueling up, or traveling.

How can I build wealth in the long term?

In addition to classic saving, it’s worth investing your money wisely. Whether through ETFs, stocks, or interest-bearing savings accounts – the earlier you start, the more you can benefit in the long run. Set clear savings goals and use the 60/40 rule to regularly put money aside.

How can I save with little money?

Even with a small budget, you can save. Set aside small amounts regularly, reduce unnecessary expenses, and use cheaper or free alternatives for subscriptions, transportation, or leisure activities. Every penny counts – even saving CHF 20.00 per week adds up to over CHF 1,000.00 in a year!

How can I save money when shopping?

Keep an eye out for special offers, use loyalty programs, and buy in bulk to lower costs. Comparing prices in different stores or online shops can also help you find better deals. With apps like poinz, you also have access to exclusive deals and discounts.

How can I lower my fixed costs?

Regularly review your fixed costs, such as rent, insurance, mobile contracts, and subscriptions. Often, there are cheaper alternatives or opportunities to use discounts. A call to your provider or switching to a different contract can quickly pay off.

Is it worth keeping a household budget?

Yes! Knowing exactly where your money goes allows you to save more consciously. A household budget – whether through an app or traditionally in a notebook – helps you identify unnecessary expenses and better manage your finances.

How can I save on heating and electricity costs?

Saving energy means saving money. Use energy-efficient appliances, turn off lights when you don't need them, and lower the room temperature by one degree – this can save up to 6% on heating costs. Additionally, turning off devices on standby can significantly reduce your electricity bill.

How can I travel affordably?

Take advantage of early bird discounts, compare prices on platforms like Skyscanner or Google Flights, and benefit from cashback or loyalty programs for bookings. If you're flexible with your travel dates, you can often save even more with last-minute offers.

Is it better to pay in cash or by card?

It depends on your spending habits. Paying in cash can give you better control over your expenses. On the other hand, credit cards with cashback, such as the free poinz credit card, offer the advantage of getting money back on every purchase.

How can I save money on my car?

Fuel is often cheaper on certain weekdays, usually Mondays or Tuesdays. Additionally, car-sharing or using public transportation tickets can often be more affordable than owning a car. If you do own a car, check your insurance – there are often savings opportunities there.

How can I save more sustainably?

Sustainable saving means consuming fewer resources and reducing long-term costs. Buy secondhand, repair instead of buying new, use reusable products, and reduce food waste by planning your shopping and preparing meals in advance (meal prep).

How much should I save for emergencies?

A general rule of thumb is to save at least 3 to 6 months' worth of salary as an emergency fund. This way, you're covered in case unexpected expenses arise, like a car repair or an unexpected bill.

How can I grow my savings?

Simply leaving money in your account often yields little. Instead, you can invest in ETFs, stocks, or savings accounts with better interest rates. Research investment options that align with your risk profile.

Are discount apps really worth it?

Yes! Many apps offer exclusive deals, cashback, or digital loyalty cards that let you benefit with every purchase. With poinz, for example, you can earn cashback, access discount offers, and qualify for free products.