What are some extreme ways to save money that actually work?

Living in a tiny home or van can reduce housing costs by up to 80% compared to a traditional home, due to the smaller footprint and lower utility bills.

The "no-spend challenge," where individuals refrain from non-essential purchases for a set period, can lead to an average savings of $200-$500 per month.

Foraging for wild edible plants can provide free, nutrient-dense food, with some species containing up to 10 times more vitamins and minerals than their cultivated counterparts.

Food waste reclaiming, where people retrieve edible food from dumpsters, can save an individual hundreds of dollars per year on groceries, though it requires thorough food safety practices.

Raising backyard chickens for eggs can reduce grocery costs by $50-$100 per month, and the manure can be used as an effective, all-natural fertilizer for a home garden.

Bartering goods and services can help individuals avoid spending money, with studies showing that active bartering communities can generate the equivalent of $500-$1,000 in annual savings.

Extreme couponing, when done strategically, can lead to savings of 50-90% on grocery bills, though it requires significant time and organizational skills.

Cashback apps that reward users for their everyday purchases can provide an average annual savings of $300-$500 with minimal effort.

Switching from cable TV to free or low-cost streaming services can save households $50-$100 per month on entertainment expenses.

Utilizing public transportation instead of owning a personal vehicle can save individuals $5,000-$10,000 per year on car payments, insurance, fuel, and maintenance costs.

Growing a home vegetable garden can provide up to 30% of a household's annual produce needs, leading to hundreds of dollars in savings on grocery bills.

Participating in community food co-ops can reduce grocery costs by 20-40% compared to traditional supermarkets, as members share in the purchasing power and distribution costs.