Minimize Errand Runs to Save Money
When you’re trying to save money, it’s easy to focus on the big stuff—cutting subscriptions, meal planning, buying secondhand. But there’s one area that quietly drains your wallet (and your energy): frequent trips out to run errands.
At House of Six, I’m all about small, bite-sized ways to save money—and streamlining your errands is a surprisingly simple shift that can add up fast. I have seen many family members run to one store to save on a can of beans, then another store to save on toilet paper, and then a third store to save on a package of pasta. With all of these items, they are only saving a few cents but spending dollars on gas, wear and tear on their car, possibly making impulse buys, not to mention the time being used up running from place to place.
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1. Consolidate Errands Into One Weekly Trip
Instead of running out every time you think of something you need, start a running list (on your fridge or your phone). Head over to my Etsy shop, Slater Digital Studios, if you’d like to purchase two simple printable grocery lists, plus a meal planner printable, all in one bundle.
Choose one day a week as your “errand day” and tackle everything in one go: groceries, pharmacy, post office, returns. Not only does this save gas, but you’re less likely to make impulse purchases when everything is part of a planned route.
I’ve been using this Clever Fox Planner for years now. It helps me keep track of my to-dos, where I need to be during the week, appointments, and grocery items I don’t want to forget, among other things. If you like to write things down, like I do, this planner provides ample room to do so and comes with stickers you can use to signal something important coming up.
Choose one day as errand day
Map your route ahead of time to save time and gas. Hit stores in a logical loop to avoid criss-crossing town
2. Batch Similar Tasks Together
Do you need to visit multiple places within the same plaza or neighbourhood? Group them together. You’re already parked—might as well return that library book, grab that prescription, and mail that letter while you’re there.
This is especially helpful for parents. Getting kids in and out of the car repeatedly is a chore. I remember this so well. With four kids in tow, getting them in and out of the car was a job in itself. Fewer stops = fewer meltdowns and faster days.
3. Rethink What Requires a Trip at All
Ask yourself: Do I actually need to go out for this? We’ve all been caught off guard by forgetting to pick up an item or needing a specific item to cook dinner. Instead think:
Can you order that item online for the same price or at a lower price?
Can you wait until your next scheduled errand day?
Can you substitute with something you already have at home?
For example, if you’re missing one ingredient, check for a suitable substitute before rushing to the store. You might find you didn’t need it after all.
Rethink your trip
Check if you can swap an item for another before making that trip to the store
4. Keep an Errand Tote Ready
Keep a tote or bin by your door or in your trunk for items that need to be taken out, such as returns, donations, mail, and empty jugs for refills. This way, you’re not scrambling to remember what you meant to bring. Everything’s in one place and ready to go when errand day comes around. Just don’t forget it like I usually do!
Keep an errand tote handy
Fill your tote with items that need to go out and get done while you are doing your other errands
5. Use Curbside Pickup and Delivery Strategically
If you’re prone to overbuying at the store, curbside pickup can help you stick to your list. Many stores offer this for free or a small fee, which still saves you more than going in and grabbing extras you didn’t plan for. Ever since the COVID-19 pandemic, several stores, including Walmart, Home Depot, and Target, have continued to offer curbside pickup.
Reducing errand runs isn't about making life harder—it's about getting smarter. You don’t have to be extreme to save money. Just a little planning and a slight shift in habits can go a long way. Streamlining errands helps you stay on budget, avoid impulse buys, and keep your days more peaceful. Over time, this small shift creates real savings.
If you're looking for more bite-sized tips like this, sign up for the House of Six newsletter or follow along on Instagram. Saving money doesn’t have to be overwhelming—it just takes intention and some forethought.