Even though we're technically halfway through the first month of 2026, but I wanted to take some time to decide on the best course of action for my latest low buy year. And that's exactly what I'm talking about today.
With everything being, or at least feeling, that much more expensive, and me realising that I'd much rather save my money to go on a holiday or have an experience, a low buy makes a whole lot of sense. I know that it won't be for everyone, but doing ones in the past have helped me to completely rethink how I shop and spend. And here are my 2026 rules...
Wait at least 30 days before buying anything
I'll start with what might be the most important rule: I don't need anything that urgently that I need to buy it there and then. This might be tricky somewhere like TK Maxx, where I will see something brilliant only for it never to be seen again. However, that's normally a homeware trinket or accessory that I probably don't need anyway. Even if I see something incredible, I'm going to force myself to wait at least 30 days before even considering adding it to my basket. Sometimes this saves you money, if it drops into the sale. Yet, most of the time, the buzz of said item will have worn off by then.
Aim to only buy 12 new pieces of clothing
I always find myself picking up some new bits for summer holidays, even though I have an entire summer/holiday storage bag which is bursting at the seams. I do not need a new swimming costume, when I have two that fit me and are in almost pristine condition. I don't need any new summer dresses, playsuits or sandals either. My goal is to only buy 12 new pieces of clothing throughout the year, not taking into account essentials like new socks, underwear or thermals. And this should make me more thoughtful with what I buy.
One in one out
And when those new pieces do come in, I have to donate or get rid of something already in my wardrobe or drawers to make room for it. It doesn't necessarily need to be like for like, but that could help. I'm going to try and use this rule across every space in my home. So, if I was to buy a new pair of boots, jumper, mascara or bra, I have to swap out something similar.
No new physical books
This is a big one for me. I've already gotten into the habit of borrowing books from my local library as much as possible, whether that be physical or e-books. But I am fast running out of space on my bookshelves for any new physical books. I can still press buy on the odd 99p Kindle deal, as sometimes these are too good to ignore and I only ever buy ones that have been on my TBR for months or years. However, I don't need any more physical books taking up space in my room, at least in 2026.
Delete shopping apps and unsubscribe from emails
I already completely deleted the ASOS app from my phone last year, and it stopped me from scrolling and potentially being tempted by things I don't need. This year, I want to delete H&M, M&S and more from my phone and unsubscribe from any emails as and when I see them coming in. I rarely click into them now anyway, so let's try and clear some of my email storage at the same time.
Continue tracking each and every one of my fun purchases
Last year I tracked every single 'fun purchase' that I made. And what I mean by 'fun purchases' is anything that isn't an essential. So, I didn't track how much I spent on food shopping or transport. But, I did take a note of every item of clothing, accessory, beauty product, book, etc. It actually made me realise what I used/wore and what was a waste of money.
Would you ever consider attempting a low (or no) buy? Even if just in one category, like no new skincare products or no new books? And would you be interested in reading quarterly what I spent/money diary-style posts like the ones I did during lockdown?
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