Before you buy new, check local resale shops, community give-away groups, and repair options. A used item in good condition can cost a fraction of the shop price. Compare anyway. “Secondhand” is not automatically a bargain, and a cheap item that fails immediately is more expensive than a sound one.
The other half of this tip is letting go. Selling or giving away what you no longer use clears space and, if you sell, returns some of the original cost. Quality can beat the lowest price for things you use hard, such as shoes or a coat. Cheap that wears out in a season is a repeat purchase.
Start this week
Choose one item you planned to buy new and spend ten minutes looking for it used before you decide.