If the idea of a no-buy year makes you feel like you are about to give up all joy for the entire year, you are not alone. Cutting out every non-essential purchase can feel impossible, especially when life throws curveballs and your favourite skincare runs out at the worst time. But that is where a low buy year comes in.

We have already covered the no-buy-year rules. Let's cover how to do a low buy year that works.

No Buy vs Low Buy: What is the Difference?

A no-buy year means no spending on anything outside of the absolute essentials. Think food, household bills and replacing truly broken things. Everything else? Off-limits.

A low buy year, on the other hand, is more flexible. You create specific rules to guide your purchases rather than banning them altogether. It is perfect if you want to change your shopping habits and save money, but still need to buy the occasional birthday present or replace your only pair of jeans when they finally give up.

Why Try a Low Buy Year?

Maybe you felt overwhelmed by how much stuff you had accumulated. Maybe your bank balance needs some TLC. Or you have realised your spending habits are driven more by boredom and social media than genuine need.

Whatever the reason, a low-buy challenge can help you:

  • Break the cycle of emotional or impulse spending
  • Save towards bigger financial goals
  • Become a more intentional consumer
  • Make space – physically and mentally
  • Reconnect with the things you already own

And it is not just about buying less. It is about thinking ahead, supporting a small business over a faceless chain, and choosing self-care over another cheap top you will never wear. It is a challenge, but a rewarding one.

How to Do a Low Buy Year (That Works for You)

The beauty of a low buy year is that it is personal. You set the rules and you can adjust them as life changes. But a bit of structure helps, especially when you are tempted to shop just because you had a rubbish day.

Here is how to begin:

1. Write Your Why

What is driving this no-buy year? Maybe you want to pay off a credit card or your house is bursting at the seams with "stuff". Write it down and stick it somewhere you will see regularly.

2. Create Specific Rules

Your low buy-year rules should reflect your life. Here are some example categories:

  • Allowed purchases: Food, transport, household essentials, gifts for others
  • Pre-approved items: One piece of new clothing per season, replacing worn-out basics, books from charity shops
  • Not allowed: Trendy beauty products, home decor "just because", fast fashion hauls

Some people include a buy period every few months when they are allowed to make considered purchases outside of the essentials. It helps take the edge off.

3. Track What You Spend

You don't need a spreadsheet (unless you love one). But keep a note in your phone or a little notebook of what you spend money on. Over time, you will notice patterns – maybe you always shop when stressed or add things to your basket while watching TV.

4. Take a Break from the Scroll

Social media makes us want things we didn't know existed ten minutes ago. Take a break, mute ads, unfollow accounts that push constant shopping – whatever helps you stick to your low-buy goals.

5. Get Creative with What You Have

This is where the fun starts. Build a capsule wardrobe from clothes you already own or try a new recipe with that tin of beans in the back of the cupboard.

A low buy year can be a great reset

A low buy year won't fix everything overnight, but it can give you space to breathe. Set your own pace, choose your own specific rules and remember, you don't need to buy something new to feel like you are starting fresh.