Of all the hobbies in the world, there is none more satisfying than the art of saving money. To buy something desirable at a discounted price is the new American Dream. I’ve bought everything from stamps, buttons, books, and artwork at estate sales and flea markets that have proven their value in the resale market (although I’ve yet to part with any of my hauls). Yet, I know many who buy tools and scrap metal at these pop-up sales that prove useful in their field of work or make household tasks easier. In the 21st century, frugality is not merely a smart financial choice, but an environmentally responsible lifestyle. The joys of thrifty living extend beyond saving money–it’s about making a positive impact.

Economically, this “cheap” lifestyle proves to be incredibly beneficial. To be wise with your money means working with a budget to avoid debt and to accrue savings. Small savings on day-to-day expenses and household items can translate to long-term wealth and financial stability. Instead of purchasing a particle board couch or bookshelf at Ikea, try to thrift something that’s been around the block. Even if you’re spending more money upfront, the value of antique furniture tends to appreciate over time and is specially crafted to last for generations.

 For the best deals, I often recommend estate sales where items are usually discounted 50% off their market rate, as individuals and companies running them intend to empty the house by the time the sale concludes. They’ll often cut you an even better deal if you purchase several items simultaneously. This is frequently referred to as “bundling,” and is a favored tactic among dealers.

Aside from the obvious economic benefits of buying used and antique furniture, home decor, and other household items and tools, there is also an incredible environmental benefit to frugality. Purchasing well-made items that are meant to last contributes to a reduction in waste and a decrease in consumption. If enough consumers turn towards buying second-hand, the demand for cheaply-made items in big box stores will decrease. Thus, production will slow and resources will be conserved. 

Of course, this is a rather simplified narrative. However, the “circular economy” concept, despite its negative effect on producers, benefits the consumer, as goods are reused rather than discarded. When I stop to talk to vendors at flea markets, they often share the same sentiments. At the Brimfield Flea Market a few weeks ago, one vendor of 17th-century furniture told me, “The amount of money someone would spend on this [desk] would be roughly the same as the amount they’ll pay for expendable furniture from Target or Ikea in their lifetime.” And it will last seven times as long. That stuck with me.

For those more interested in finding rare and unique treasures, tag sales are often where you’ll find what you’re looking for. There is a definite thrill of the hunt while out for a day of tag sailing, making it somewhat of an adventure with unforetold payoffs. As I mentioned in my opening, I’ve discovered some rather incredible items in the past decade scouring sales across New England. Last year, for example, I went to a sale in Springfield, New Hampshire, which yielded a plethora of original lithographs (some framed and hand-colored) by Currier & Ives from a private collector and college professor who’d been collecting them all his life. His daughter was thrilled to hear that I would hang them in my Dominic Hall dorm room, where they remained for the year. Continually, I find that the sentimental value of the items and the journey you’ve taken to obtain them outweigh the actual resale value. However, finding value and meaning in your purchases is fulfilling and worthwhile.

When you purchase frugally, you feel better about your purchases than shopping at a big box store and swiping a credit/debit card. By focusing on saving money, you enrich your wallet, improve your environmental footprint, and find unique and rare items that could eventually accrue great value in the eyes of a collector. Find your passion and explore it to its fullest. There are so many opportunities to purchase entry-level collectibles for jaw-droppingly low prices. Thus, living frugally in the 21st century is a fulfilling and responsible choice that benefits all. Take this knowledge with you next time you think about making a Target run or making unnecessary purchases on Amazon. What you need might be right around the corner (for half price)!