High school is that awkward stage where you’re old enough to want the good stuff but too broke to afford it. With the constant pull of new gadgets, fast food, and whatever TikTok trend just dropped, it’s no wonder your wallet feels lighter than a feather. But learning how to save money now isn’t just about avoiding those “Can you spot me?” moments with friends—it’s about laying the groundwork for financial independence. So, if you’re ready to keep more of your hard-earned cash, let’s get into 10 simple money-saving tips every high schooler needs to know.

Track Your Spending Like a Pro

You don’t think twice about buying a Starbucks drink or another graphic tee, but these small expenses stack up fast. A survey by T. Rowe Price found that 69% of teens don’t track their spending at all. If you’re not keeping tabs, you’re basically throwing money away.

Use Budgeting Apps

Start with a free app like Mint or YNAB (You Need A Budget) to track every dollar you spend. These apps help you create categories—think food, clothes, entertainment—and you’ll see exactly where your money’s going. Trust me, once you realize how much you’re spending on snacks, you’ll think twice about hitting the vending machine every day.

Create Spending Categories

Create spending categories in your app for a clearer picture. Once you see your “Entertainment” budget bleeding red, you might opt for a Netflix night at home instead of another movie outing. Set daily or weekly budgets for categories to keep yourself in check.

Master the Art of Budgeting

“Budgeting” might sound like a buzzkill, but it’s actually your secret weapon against being perpetually broke. According to Bankrate, 56% of Gen Zers don’t have a budget, which explains why so many are wondering where their money went.

Use the 50/30/20 Rule

Here’s the breakdown: 50% of your money goes to needs (like saving for a car or school lunches), 30% goes to wants (like that new hoodie), and 20% goes into savings. If you’re just working a part-time job or getting allowance, adjust the percentages. The key is having a plan so you’re not left counting coins by the end of the month.

Use Student Discounts Like a Boss

Being a student isn’t just about late-night study sessions; it’s also about scoring sweet discounts. Sites like RetailMeNot found that students can save 10-15% on purchases just by flashing their ID.

Find Discount Websites

Use websites like UNiDAYS and Student Beans to find exclusive student deals. Big brands like Apple, Spotify, and Amazon Prime offer student discounts, slicing off serious cash. Next time you’re shopping online, take two seconds to check for a discount—it’s practically free money.

Avoid the Brand Name Trap

You want to be seen in that trendy brand-name hoodie or designer kicks, but those big logos come with even bigger price tags. According to Consumer Reports, 8 out of 10 shoppers can’t tell the difference between generic and brand-name products.

Shop Smart: Go Generic

Retailers like Target, H&M, and Zara offer styles that mimic high-end brands without draining your wallet. Thrift stores and resale apps like Depop and Poshmark are goldmines if you’re willing to do some digging. Trust me, your outfit doesn’t need a $50 logo to be fire.

Learn the Power of Meal Prepping

Buying lunch every day? Big mistake. The Bureau of Labor Statistics says the average American spends about $3,000 a year dining out. That’s a lot of money you could be saving, even on a high schooler’s budget.

Pack Your Lunch

Make your meals at home, and you’ll see the savings stack up. There are endless TikToks and YouTube videos showing meal prep ideas that are easy, tasty, and perfect for teens. Even just swapping a $5 coffee for a homemade one can save you hundreds a year.

Cut Out the Subscription Services

Subscriptions can be sneaky. One minute you’re signing up for a free trial, and the next thing you know, you’ve got monthly fees piling up. A study from West Monroe found that the average person spends about $273 per month on subscriptions.

Cancel What You Don’t Use

Do a subscription audit—cancel anything you’re not using regularly. Better yet, mooch off your parents’ Netflix (with permission, of course) or split the cost of Spotify Premium with friends. It’s all about spending smart, not depriving yourself.

Get Thrifty with Textbooks and School Supplies

Textbooks and supplies can put a serious dent in your budget. Instead of buying everything brand new, get creative.

Buy Used or Borrow

Websites like Chegg or AbeBooks offer used textbooks at a fraction of the cost. Many schools have resale groups where you can grab last year’s books for cheap. And when it comes to supplies, hit up your local dollar store or take advantage of back-to-school sales at Walmart and Staples. Your wallet will thank you.

Ditch the FOMO—Say No to Expensive Outings

Peer pressure can hit hard, especially when your friends are always down for pricey outings. But skipping that $15 movie or $25 dinner every once in a while isn’t going to kill your social life.

Opt for Budget-Friendly Alternatives

Instead, suggest activities that don’t cost much. Movie night at home, potlucks, or just hanging at the park are wallet-friendly and just as fun. According to the U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis, Americans spend nearly 5.5% of their income on entertainment, so cutting back even a little can keep more cash in your pocket.

Sell Your Old Stuff for Quick Cash

Got clothes you never wear or old games collecting dust? You’re probably sitting on a small fortune. A survey by Decluttr found that high schoolers have an average of $1,000 worth of unused items lying around.

Use Resale Platforms

List your unused items on eBay, Mercari, or Facebook Marketplace. You’ll make quick cash and clear out your space. Plus, you’re recycling, which is a win-win. That clutter? It’s basically money just waiting for you to cash in.

Start a Savings Account—Yes, Really

Saving might sound like the least exciting thing ever, but having a dedicated savings account can seriously level up your financial game. A report from GOBankingRates says 69% of Americans have less than $1,000 in savings. Don’t be part of that sad statistic.

Open a Student Savings Account

Most banks offer free student accounts with no monthly fees, so open one up and start stashing some cash away regularly. Even if it’s just $10 a week, that money adds up. And you’ll thank yourself when you have extra cash for emergencies, big purchases, or just to feel a little more secure.

Final Thoughts: Make Your Money Work For You

Saving money in high school isn’t about being stingy—it’s about being smart with what little you’ve got. Track your spending, budget like a pro, and take advantage of every discount you can find. You’re setting yourself up for success down the road, and who doesn’t want a little extra cash in their pocket? So, next time you’re tempted to drop $20 on fast food, think about your future self. Your bank account will thank you. Also check our guide to budgeting for high schoolers.