These 30 day challenge ideas are not only fun but super effective.
When I was staring down a mountain of debt, determined to pay it off as quickly as possible, I knew I needed to get creative.
Finding extra cash to chip away at that balance—no matter how small—became a bit of a game for me. Every little bit counted, and I was hungry for ways to make progress without feeling deprived.
That’s when I discovered the power of 30 day challenge ideas, and they quickly became one of my go-to strategies for saving money.
What started as a simple experiment to save a few pounds here and there quickly turned into one of the most effective (and surprisingly fun) strategies I’ve ever tried.
These 30-day challenge ideas not only helped me save more money, but they also boosted my motivation and gave me a sense of accomplishment every step of the way.
I started treating these challenges like mini-goals, celebrating each win, no matter how small. It’s amazing how a series of small, daily changes can make such a massive difference over time.
I’ve tried everything from skipping coffee shops to tracking my spare change, and the results have been eye-opening.
So, if you’re ready to make saving money a bit more exciting, let me share 40 different 30 day challenge ideas that I’ve personally tried and found incredibly effective.
You might just find yourself falling in love with these challenges too! Plus, there’s a free printable at the end, so make sure to read through!
Excited to start saving and maybe even have some fun along the way?
Let’s dive in!
What is the 30-Day Challenge?
A 30-day challenge is a focused effort on achieving a particular goal over the course of—you guessed it—30 days!
Whether you’re looking to save money, improve your health, or form better habits, committing to a task for just 30 days can have a big impact.
Throughout this post, I’m going to share my favourite 30 day challenge ideas to help you save money, improve habits, and even have a little fun along the way.
What Can Be Achieved In 30 Days?
In my experience, 30-day challenges are an amazing way to jump-start progress toward your goals.
The time frame is perfect—not too long to feel overwhelming but long enough to start seeing real results.
For example, when I did a no-spend challenge, the 30-day mark helped me develop discipline while still staying manageable.
By the end of it, I had saved more than I expected and picked up some lasting new habits.
It’s amazing how a series of small, daily changes can make such a massive difference and create a new habit over time.
What are some good 30-day challenges? Now that we’ve talked about why 30-day challenges work, let’s dive into the ones that have worked for me!
Save Big with These Awesome 30 Day Challenge Ideas
These 30 day challenge ideas are all about making saving money fun, rewarding, and, most importantly, achievable so you can achieve your financial goals.
Whether you try one or a few, the key is to stay consistent and enjoy the process. Let’s dive in, shall we?
1. No-Spend Challenge
I once decided to try a no-spend month and let me tell you—it was a game-changer!
For 30 days, I only allowed myself to spend on essentials like groceries and bills. No online shopping, no eating out, and no new clothes (sorry, shoes, maybe next month!).
I had to get creative—no takeaways, no impulse Amazon buys (as tempting as they were), and I even managed to steer clear of the online sales!
It was tough at first, but by the end of the month, I was amazed at how much I’d saved. The one thing that surprised me was how much I could save just by avoiding small impulse purchases.
If you’re up for a challenge, this one’s a game changer.
Out of all the 30 day challenge ideas I’ve tried, the no-spend challenge had the biggest impact on my spending habits.
The challenge forced me to rethink what I actually needed and gave me a fresh perspective on how many of my purchases were impulsive.
Actionable Tip: Ease into it by starting with a no spend weekend or week of no spending, then build up to a month. Check out this helpful guide on how to succeed at the ‘no-spend’ challenge.
FAQ: What if an emergency expense comes up?
It’s okay to spend on emergencies but try to differentiate between what’s truly necessary and what’s just a “want.”
After the no-spend challenge, I wanted to get even more creative with my spending habits.
2. Cash-Only Challenge
For a 30-day challenge, I ditched the bank cards and went cash-only. Going cash-only for a month made me rethink my relationship with money.
I’m used to swiping my card and thinking, “It’s fine, but using actual cash made me much more aware of how much I was spending.
There’s something about handing over physical money that makes you think twice! I set a weekly budget, withdrew just enough cash, and once it was gone, that was it.
Using cash instead of cards helped me stay mindful of my spending. It’s a fun challenge that really forces you to stick to your budget.
And hey, you might just find a forgotten £5 note in your purse—bonus!
Actionable Tip: Create mini cash envelopes for different spending categories—groceries, fuel, entertainment—to stay organised.
Withdraw your budgeted amount for the week and stick to it—once the cash is gone, it’s gone!
Many bank and budgeting apps like Emma and Monzo can help you track your spending. You can also check out our handy guide on how to budget even on a low income.
If this has inspired you, here’s another one of my favourite 30 day challenge ideas.
3. Round-Up Savings Challenge
If you’re looking for easy 30 day challenge ideas to implement without much effort, this one’s a must-try.
This one is sneaky but brilliant!
Every time I made a purchase, I rounded it up to the nearest pound and saved the difference. For example, if I spent £4.50 on a coffee, I’d put 50p into my savings account.
You wouldn’t believe how quickly those little bits add up. It’s like saving without even trying!
Over 30 days, those small amounts added up surprisingly fast, and by the end of the challenge, I had a nice little stash ready to pay off my debt.
The best part? You can do this manually or, if you prefer a more automated approach, use a savings app that does the rounding for you.
It’s small changes like this that really add up over time. Give it a try, and by the end of the 30 days, you’ll have saved without even noticing!
By making saving money a game, it not only helped my finances but also positively impacted my mental health
Tip for beginners: Automate this process using your banking app if they offer a round-up savings feature. If not, there are apps like Plum, Monzo or Chip that can help you automatically round up purchases for savings.
Feeling inspired? Here’s another 30-day challenge idea I love!
4. Cut One Bill Challenge
Have you ever taken a close look at all your monthly bills? You might be surprised at what’s hiding in plain sight!
When I went through my bills, I challenged myself to find one I could reduce or cancel altogether.
Whether it’s cancelling an unused subscription or negotiating a better rate on utilities, cutting one bill can lead to surprising savings over time.
I realised I was still paying for a streaming service I barely used, so I cancelled it. Just like that, I saved £10 a month instantly!
For the next 30 days, why not challenge yourself to do the same?
Take a close look at your recurring bills, and find at least one to reduce, re-negotiate, or eliminate completely.
I even did this with a client, and it was like discovering hidden treasure! She found out she was still paying for a gym membership she hadn’t used in months (whoops!), so she cancelled it and switched to home workouts for the month.
That one small change saved her £40 right away!
It’s incredible how those little changes add up. Go ahead, review your bills, cut something non-essential for a month, and see how much you can save. You might not even miss it!
FAQ: What if I can’t cancel a bill entirely?
Call your provider and ask about discounts or consider switching to a cheaper plan.
Actionable Tip: Check if you’re overpaying on utility bills by using price comparison sites like Money Supermarket to find better deals.
Want to Save More? Check out our top 10 Ways to Reduce Your Monthly Bills. Feeling motivated? Check out another one of my favourite 30 day challenge ideas!
5. Meal Planning Challenge
On average, UK households spend approximately £1,278 on takeaways and dining out at restaurants every year.
If you’re looking for more money-saving day challenges, this one’s for you. Whether you love cooking or not, the meal-prep challenge is both fun and practical.
It quickly became one of my favourites. Every weekend, I’d plan and cook all my meals for the week ahead.
I made things like soups, salads, and freezer-friendly dishes that I could simply grab and heat up when I needed them.
Not only did this cut down on last-minute takeout, but it also freed up so much time during the week.
The best part? By the end of the month, my grocery bill was noticeably lower, and I felt healthier than ever!
If you’re a foodie, this is one of the most practical 30 day challenge ideas that can help you save money and time while eating healthier
Helpful tip: Invest in a few good-quality containers to store your prepped meals. It keeps things fresh and organised!
FAQ: How do I meal prep if I have a busy schedule?
Batch-cook simple meals on the weekend, so you don’t have to cook every day, and you will have so much more free time during the week.
Start small with just lunches and build from there! Got the inspiration bug? Here’s another one of my top 30 day challenge ideas for you to try.
6. Daily Savings Challenge
Imagine saving nearly £500 in just 30 days—sounds incredible, right?
This is one of those 30 day challenge ideas that allows you to see tangible results quickly, as your savings grow each day.
This challenge is incredibly simple yet highly effective, and it’s one of my all-time favourite 30 day challenge ideas!
For this 30-day journey, I committed to saving a little bit every day, turning it into a fun money countdown. On Day 1, I saved £1; on Day 2, £2; and so on.
By Day 30, I was saving £30. While that might sound like a lot, the gradual increase made it completely manageable.
By the end of the month, I had saved £465 without even realising it! It filled me with pride, and the daily challenge kept me engaged and motivated. It’s so rewarding to watch your savings grow and debt decrease is truly rewarding!
The beauty of this idea is its flexibility—you can start small or customise it to fit your budget.
FAQ: What if I can’t afford to save that much?
No worries! You can easily customise the challenge to fit your financial situation. Start with smaller increments, like 10p or 50p per day.
Alternatively, save £1 during the first week, £2 during the second week, and so forth. The possibilities are endless—all you need is a little creativity!
Ready to give this challenge a try? You’ll be amazed at how quickly those little savings can add up!
7. Declutter and Sell Challenge
What if you could declutter your home and make extra cash at the same time?
Among all the 30 day challenge ideas I’ve done, decluttering and selling items not only helped me earn extra cash but also cleared up space in my home.
I’ve always been a bit of a hoarder (aren’t we all?), so I decided to embark on a 30-day decluttering challenge where I sold one item each day online.
The extra cash? Straight into my savings!
VoucherCodes research found that Brits could make an average of £1,315 from selling unused and unwanted items.
Think about that handbag you haven’t used in years or that gadget collecting dust—it’s time to sell!
Clothes, books, even old craft supplies—it’s incredible what people will buy! I used apps like Vinted and Facebook Marketplace, which made the process super easy and enjoyable.
By the end of the month, not only had I made some extra cash, but my home felt so much more organised. It felt like getting paid to clean my house—a double win!
Action tip: Post items you no longer need on social media platforms like Facebook Marketplace to make quick sales.
You can also use platforms like eBay, or Depop to list your items. Start with smaller, easy-to-sell items like clothes or electronics.
Take a look at this YouTube video for tips on decluttering and turning your unwanted items into cash!
Ready to clear out the clutter and boost your savings? Let’s get started on this rewarding journey!
8. Eat Out Less Challenge
This is one of my favourite 30 day challenge ideas for saving money on food, as it encourages you to get creative with cooking at home.
As much as I adore dining out, I decided to embark on a 30-day challenge to eat at home as much as possible.
I still let myself indulge in one treat meal a week, but the rest of the time, I cooked at home.
I was shocked at how much I saved by simply preparing most of my meals at home. I even challenged myself to recreate some of my favourite restaurant dishes in my own kitchen, and they turned out better (and cheaper) than expected!
Cutting back on restaurants saved me a significant amount of money. Plus, I learned to make some of my favourite dishes at home—win-win!
Eating out can really add up, so this 30-day challenge is a tasty way to save money
If you’re looking to save money without sacrificing flavour, this challenge is an excellent opportunity to explore new recipes and keep your dining experiences exciting!
Actionable Tip: Plan some special meals at home to keep things exciting. Theme nights like taco night or homemade pizza can help you avoid takeout temptation.
You can also check out these BBC Good Food budget-friendly recipes to help you get started.
FAQ: How do I avoid feeling deprived?
Treat yourself to a “fakeaway” by making your favourite takeaway meal at home. You’ll still enjoy the flavours you love but at a fraction of the cost!
Got the inspiration bug? Here’s another one of my top 30 day challenge ideas for you to try.
9. No Coffee Shop Challenge
Okay, I know this one is hard, but it’s totally worth it! For 30 days, I swapped my regular coffee shop visits for making my own at home.
Incorporating a home-brewed coffee into my morning routine became a new way to save money.
I even invested in a fancy milk frother to make it feel like a treat. Trust me, you won’t even miss those £3 lattes when you see how much you’ve saved by the end of the month.
Plus, you can experiment with different coffee blends and syrups—it’s like having your own personal café at home.
It was fun experimenting with flavours, and I saved a surprising amount by the end of the month.
Actionable Tip: Invest in a good travel mug and frother to elevate your at-home coffee game, so you don’t miss your café experience too much
FAQ: What if I miss my coffee shop routine?
Create a little coffee corner at home to make your morning brew feel like a treat!
10. DIY Everything Challenge
I’m not naturally a DIY person, but I took this challenge to heart.
For 30 days, I tried to make things I’d normally buy—coffee, beauty products, even a bit of home repair. I surprised myself by how much I could do!
I tried something new by making my own beauty products.
I made homemade face masks and scrups, whipped up some iced coffees at home, and even fixed a broken cupboard without calling in a handyman.
Not only did I save money, but I learned some useful skills along the way. I even found some amazing homemade face masks recipes for natural beauty treatments online that worked wonders!
You’d be amazed at how much you can save by doing it yourself, plus it’s a fun way to learn new skills.
Actionable Tip: Start small! Try DIY beauty products or make your own cleaning supplies. Check out these easy DIY skincare for glowing skin to help you get started.
Ready for another cost-saving challenge? Let’s jump in!
11. Grocery List Challenge
Sticking to a grocery list can be a game changer! Research shows that making a grocery list can reduce impulse buys by up to 30%.
Wandering the grocery aisles and grabbing whatever catches my eye used to be my biggest challenge, but this 30-day challenge taught me the power of discipline.
For 30 days, I made it my mission to never walk into a grocery store without a list. I stuck to that list religiously list—no extras, no treats that weren’t on the list.
It might sound simple, but sticking to that list transformed how I shopped and saved me a surprising amount of money!
What made this challenge even more effective was that it helped me cut down on food waste. By only buying what I knew I’d use, I saved money and wasted less.
I also started planning meals around what was on sale or in season, which stretched my budget even further.
If you’re looking to save money on groceries and avoid waste, this challenge is a great place to start.
FAQ: How do I avoid forgetting items?
Just keep a running list on your phone and add to it as soon as you run out of something, so you always have your list handy!
Excited to keep going? Here’s another one of the best 30 day challenge ideas I’ve tried.
12. Avoid Big Purchases Challenge
This is one of the 30 day challenge ideas that helps curb impulse buying and gives you the time to reconsider major purchases.
The urge to splurge can be tough, but this challenge helps you resist!
Studies indicate that delaying a purchase can lead to more thoughtful spending, which can have several psychological and financial benefits.
If you’ve been eyeing a new gadget, furniture, or even some new clothes, try pressing pause for 30 days.
This challenge is all about holding off on those big-ticket purchases and giving yourself time to think.
I did this with a new phone I wanted, and by the end of the month, I realised I didn’t actually need it.
Sometimes, just waiting a bit can make you see things more clearly—and your bank account will thank you!
Actionable Tip: Use this time to research thoroughly and compare prices. Sometimes, waiting means you’ll find a better deal or realise you don’t need the item after all.
FAQ: What if I still want to buy it after the 30 days?
If it’s still something you want and can afford without going over budget, you’ll at least know that it’s a considered purchase, not an impulse buy.
Want to continue the momentum? Here’s another one of my favourite 30 day challenge ideas to try.
13. Coupon and Discount Challenge
For those who love a bargain, this is one of the most rewarding 30 day challenge ideas, as you’ll save money on things you actually need.
And really, who doesn’t love a good deal?
This one’s a bit of a scavenger hunt! During this 30-days challenge, I only bought things if I had a coupon or found a discount.
According to a recent survey, coupon users can save an average of 20% on groceries.
Honestly, I’m not a huge fan of hunting for coupons—it can feel like navigating a maze. But when you have a specific goal in mind, finding discounts can actually be really helpful.
I signed up for store newsletters, downloaded cashback apps, and even searched for discount codes before checking out online.
It became a fun little mission to see how much I could save. You’d be amazed how many deals are out there when you take the time to look!
Actionable Tip: Set up browser extensions like Honey that automatically search for coupons when you shop online.
FAQ: Is it worth signing up for store newsletters?
Yes! You’ll often get exclusive deals or early access to sales just for being on the email list – but make sure it’s only for items you’ve already planned to buy.
Speaking of saving, let’s dive into a health-related 30 day challenge ideas.
14. Free Friends and Family Bonding Challenge
One of the most rewarding 30 day challenge ideas is finding free or low-cost ways to connect with friends and family.
I challenged myself to find free or super low-cost ways to hang out with friends and family for 30 days, and it turned out to be a lot of fun!
Instead of going out to eat or go to the movies, we did things like potluck dinners, movie nights at home, or even free events in the park.
It was refreshing to realise that you don’t need to spend a ton to have a good time. Plus, my friends were on board too, so it became a collective effort to save while still enjoying ourselves.
You don’t have to spend money to have a good time!
Many activities, such as hiking, picnics in the park, or free community events, can be great alternatives. All you need to do is look around and explore.
I discovered new hobbies and how to spend time with family and friends in more meaningful ways without breaking the bank.
Actionable Tip: Plan activities ahead of time so that everyone is on the same page about keeping things low-cost.
FAQ: What if my friends prefer expensive outings?
Suggest a mix of activities—one expensive outing, then one free one. Over time, they might start enjoying the cheaper options just as much.
If this has got you excited, here’s another one of my favourite 30 day challenge ideas.
15. Walk or Cycle Challenge
Who knew that getting around could save you a lot of money? Studies show that cycling or walking can save an average of £3,000 a year in transport costs.
If you want to combine health and savings, this is one of the most impactful 30 day challenge ideas —helping you cut transport costs while staying active.
I love this fitness challenge because it’s good for both your wallet and your health.
For 30 days, I ditched the car and public transport whenever I could and opted to walk or cycle instead.
I saved on petrol, bus fares, and even got some fresh air and exercise. Not only did I save money on fuel, but I also got fitter!
Plus, I discovered new areas of my neighbourhood that I had never noticed before!
If you can swap just a few car journeys a week, you’ll start to see the savings (and maybe a little extra fitness boost too!).
Combining fitness with saving money, is one of the best 30 day challenge ideas for improving your health and cutting transportation costs.
Actionable Tip: If your commute is too long for walking or cycling, try breaking it up—walk part of the way or bike to a bus or train station to reduce costs.
Consider tracking your steps as well. Tracking your steps can be a great motivator—set a goal of 10,000 steps a day to add an extra boost to your challenge!
FAQ: What if I don’t have a bike?
Many cities have bike rental schemes, or you can look for second-hand bikes online.
Looking for more? Here’s another great 30-day challenge idea that worked wonders for me.
16. Cancel Unused Subscriptions Challenge
This is one of those simple 30 day challenge ideas that can reveal hidden expenses and free up extra money each month. On average, people waste £30 a month on unused subscriptions.
I sat down one day, looked through all my subscriptions—Netflix, Spotify, that random magazine I forgot I was paying for—and cancelled anything I wasn’t actively using.
It felt like finding money you didn’t know you had.
By the end of the month, I’d saved a nice chunk just by eliminating unnecessary recurring charges.
You might be surprised at how much money you can free up!
Tip for beginners: One easy way to do this is use a subscription tracking app like ScribePay to track all your subscriptions in one place and easily cancel the ones you don’t need.
FAQ: How do I know what to cancel?
If you haven’t used a service in the last month, consider whether you really need it. You can always resubscribe later if necessary.
Inspired by this challenge? Here’s another one of my top 30 day challenge ideas to try next.
17. Skip the Gym Challenge
The average gym membership costs around £40 a month. Instead of paying for a gym membership, I worked out at home or outdoors for 30 days.
You wouldn’t believe how many free resources are out there.
From bodyweight exercises to YouTube workout videos, I found endless ways to stay fit for free. The best part? I didn’t miss the gym at all and saved on monthly fees.
You certainly can get fit without spending a fortune!
Actionable Tip: Create a small workout corner at home and stick to a daily routine to build consistency. To mix things up, try using free workout apps or explore no-equipment routines on YouTube!
Want to save more? Here are 8 ways to keep fit on a budget without a gym membership.
Up for another new challenge? Here’s one of my favourite 30 day challenge ideas you can try.
18. Buy Generic Challenge
I used to be a bit of a brand snob, but this challenge changed my mind! Studies show that generic products can save you around 25% compared to name brands.
For 30 days, I swapped out name-brand products for generic ones—groceries, household goods, toiletries, you name it.
And guess what? Most of the time, I didn’t even notice a difference! My wallet, on the other hand, definitely did.
You can save big by going generic! It’s worth a try, and who knows—you might never go back to the expensive stuff.
Actionable Tip: Start with basic items like rice, pasta, or cleaning products. These often have little difference in quality between generic and branded versions.
FAQ: What if I don’t like the generic version?
If you try it and don’t like it, switch back for that specific item. You don’t have to stick with generic for everything.
19. Use Loyalty Rewards Challenge
This is one of the 30 day challenge ideas that takes advantage of rewards and cashback systems, so you save even when you’re spending.
For this challenge, I made it my mission to take full advantage of loyalty programs and cashback apps for 30 days.
I signed up for all the store reward programs I could and used cashback apps every time I shopped. It was like finding money I didn’t know existed!
By the end of the month, I had earned enough points for some free treats, and the cashback added a little extra to my savings.
It’s such an easy way to save if you’re already shopping, so why not?
Tip for beginners: Keep track of your points and rewards using an app or spreadsheet so you don’t forget to redeem them.
FAQ: How do cashback apps work?
You get a small percentage of what you spend back when you make a purchase through the app. Over time, it adds up!
Want to try something else? This is another 30-day challenge idea I found really effective.
20. Set a Weekly Budget Challenge
Setting a budget is one of the most powerful 30 day challenge ideas because it gives you complete control over your spending.
Research from the University of St Andrews found that people who budgeted reduced their spending, with the most ambitious budgeters cutting back the most.
I set a strict weekly budget for 30 days and stuck to it religiously.
It forced me to be mindful of where my money was going and to really think about what I valued spending on.
Every time I wanted to buy something outside of my budget, I had to pause and decide if it was worth it. And anything I didn’t spend by the end of the week went straight into my savings.
It’s a simple way to spot where your money is going and take charge of your budget!
This challenge is great for building discipline and seeing just how much you can save when you stick to a plan.
Tip for beginners: Set realistic weekly budgets that allow you some flexibility, so you don’t feel too restricted.
Don’t miss our guide: How to Budget and Save (Even on a Low Income).
FAQ: How do I handle unexpected expenses?
Include a small buffer in your budget for emergencies or unplanned costs, so you’re not caught off guard.
If you’re ready for more, here’s another one of my favourite 30 day challenge ideas.
21. No New Clothes Challenge
This is one of the most sustainable 30 day challenge ideas, helping you save money while reducing your environmental impact.
For 30 days, I didn’t buy any new clothes. Instead, I shopped my closet and rediscovered pieces I hadn’t worn in ages.
I got creative with layering, accessorising, and mixing and matching pieces I hadn’t worn together before. It was a fun way to breathe new life into my wardrobe without spending a penny.
Tip for beginners: Try a capsule wardrobe challenge, where you choose a set number of items (like 10 or 15) and see how many different outfits you can create.
FAQ: What if I need new clothes for a special event?
There are plenty of options to avoid buying new pieces for one-time events. Check out second-hand shops, borrow from a friend, or rent outfits for special occasions instead of buying new.
Won’t I get bored of wearing the same clothes?
Not if you mix things up! Accessories like scarves, belts, and jewellery can completely transform an outfit.
What if I don’t find what I’m looking for? Be patient! Check back often—second-hand shops get new stock all the time, and online platforms are updated regularly
If you’re feeling inspired, let me share another one of my favourite 30 day challenge ideas with you.
22. Round-Up Debt Payments Challenge
For anyone trying to get out of debt, this is one of the 30 day challenge ideas that can make a noticeable difference with just small, consistent actions
For this challenge, I decided to pay just a little bit extra on my debt each time I made a payment. I rounded up to the nearest £10 or £20.
It didn’t feel like much at the time, but those little extra payments really add up over a month. By the end of the challenge, I had paid off more of my debt than I’d planned, and I was on track to being debt-free faster.
If you’re looking to tackle debt, this is a great way to speed things up without feeling the pinch too much.
Every small step you take toward becoming debt-free is a powerful move in the right direction. No matter how minor it seems, progress is progress!
Action tip: Use an online debt calculator like this one from Which? to see how small extra payments can reduce your payoff time.
FAQ: What if I can’t afford to round up?
Even rounding up by just £5 can make a difference. Do what you can within your means.
If you’re ready for more, check out this next 30-day challenge idea that’s one of my personal favourites.
23. Take Your Own Lunch Challenge
This one was a game changer for me. I used to grab lunch out most days but for 30 days, I committed to packing my own.
Eating out can cost an average of £5 per meal, which adds up quickly!
Not only did I save a lot of money, but I also ate healthier and avoided the temptation of fast food.
It’s amazing how quickly the savings added up, and it made me appreciate my food more.
Action Tip: Keep your lunches simple—salads, sandwiches, and leftovers are easy and budget-friendly.
You can also check out our helpful guide on how to be a Smart-luncher to Save Cash and Stay Healthy.
If this has motivated you, here’s a different 30-day challenge idea that’s sure to keep you going.
24. The 24-Hour Shopping Rule Challenge
When it comes to controlling impulse spending, this is one of the best 30 day challenge ideas to help you rethink your purchases.
Here’s a simple trick that totally changed my approach to impulse buying: the 24-hour rule.
This simple rule could save you a lot!
It is not just great for saving money but also for fostering personal growth and mindful spending. Research suggests that waiting to purchase can decrease impulse buys significantly.
For 30 days, whenever I felt the urge to buy something, especially online, I forced myself to wait 24 hours before hitting that “Buy Now” button.
Often, by the next day, I realised I didn’t really need or want the item anymore. This little pause saved me from a lot of impulse buys!
I found that most times; after waiting, I didn’t even want the item anymore!
Helpful tip: If 24 hours feels too short, stretch it out to 72 hours. The longer you wait, the more time you give yourself to reconsider.
FAQ: What if the item sells out?
That’s okay! It probably wasn’t meant to be, and there’s a good chance you’ll find something similar later.
25. Utilities Savings Challenge
Studies shows that a household can save around £80 a year just by being more energy-efficient.
For this challenge, I turned my home into an energy-saving zone for 30 days!
Little things like unplugging electronics when not in use, turning off lights when I left a room, taking shorter showers and using energy-efficient light bulbs made a noticeable difference in my utility bills.
I even made it a fun challenge with my family to see who could save the most energy!
The best part? These are habits I’ve stuck with long after the challenge ended.
Small changes can lead to big savings!
Helpful tip: If you’re unsure where to start, check out an online energy savings calculator. It will give you personalised tips based on your usage.
26. No-Buy Beauty Challenge
Research shows the average person spends £581 on beauty products a year.
For 30 days, I committed to not buying any new beauty products. Instead, I used up what I already had—half-finished lotions, unused lipsticks, the works.
It made me realise how much I had been hoarding!
By the end of the month, I had used up a lot of products and saved on unnecessary purchases.
Action tip: Organise your beauty stash and challenge yourself to create new looks using products you already own.
Excited to keep going? Here’s one of the best 30 day challenge ideas I’ve tried.
27. Track Your Spending Day Challenge
Tracking your spending can be a real eye-opener! Studies show that simply tracking your spending can lead to a reduction of 10-20%.
For 30 days, I tracked every single penny I spent. At first, it felt a bit tedious, but it quickly became an eye-opener!
I could clearly see where my money was going, and it helped me identify areas where I could cut back.
Tracking your expenses is one of the eye-opening 30 day challenge ideas that can change how you view and manage your finances.
A study by the University of Portsmouth shows that paying attention to non-essential spending—like those little treats we often overlook—can help you better predict and manage your overall spending habits.
Whether it was daily coffees or spontaneous online shopping, tracking my spending made me more mindful of my financial habits.
One of the simplest ways to save money is by tracking your expenses. Give it a try – don’t just take my word for it!
Action tip: Track your expenses using apps like Emma, Plum, and Monzo, or simply set up a spreadsheet. Consistency is key!
If you’re ready to elevate your financial game, consider our financial success planner to help you manage and track your money effectively.
FAQ: How detailed should my spending tracker be?
You don’t have to track every minor detail, but breaking your expenses into categories (groceries, entertainment, bills) helps to see patterns.
28. Zero Entertainment Spend Challenge
Looking for more creative 30 day challenge ideas? This one’s perfect for finding new ways to entertain yourself without spending a penny.
For 30 days, I found ways to entertain myself without spending a dime. No cinema trips, no concerts—just pure creativity!
I spent time in nature, hosted movie nights at home, and got back into reading. It was refreshing to see that having fun doesn’t have to cost money, and by the end of the month, I had saved quite a bit.
Action tip: Make a list of free or low-cost activities in your area, like community events or hiking spots, and plan them into your schedule.
FAQ: What if I run out of free things to do?
You won’t! Check local libraries for free events, explore nearby parks, or try learning a new hobby like photography or cooking at home.
Inspired by this? Here’s another one of my go-to 30 day challenge ideas you’ll enjoy.
29. DIY Gift Challenge
This is one of the 30 day challenge ideas that not only saves money but also teaches you new skills.
I love giving gifts, but it can get expensive. So, for 30 days, I committed to making DIY gifts for upcoming birthdays, holidays, or special occasions.
I made everything from personalised photo frames to cakes. Not only did it save me money, but the gifts felt more meaningful because they were handmade.
For creative types, this is one of the most enjoyable 30 day challenge ideas, allowing you to make thoughtful, budget-friendly gifts.
Action tip: Start simple! Pinterest and YouTube are full of easy DIY gift ideas that don’t require a ton of materials or crafting skills.
Want to try something else? This is another one of my effective 30 day challenge ideas.
30. 30-Minute Shopping Challenge
If you’re looking to cut down on unnecessary purchases, this is one of the most effective 30 day challenge ideas for reducing shopping time and impulse buys.
This challenge taught me to be more decisive! I limited my shopping trips to just 30 minutes, forcing myself to grab what I needed and leave.
Get in and out, saving both time and money!
After 30 days, I was amazed at how quickly I learned to identify what I really needed.
31. Discount Hunting Challenge
I spent 30 days hunting down discounts, promo codes, and cashback offers for everything I bought. Whether it was groceries, clothes, or even utilities, I never paid full price.
I signed up for cashback apps, used browser extensions like Honey, and checked discount sites before every purchase. The savings were well worth the extra effort!
Action tip: Bookmark a few discount websites or download a browser extension that automatically applies coupons when you shop online.
FAQ: Isn’t it time-consuming to look for discounts?
Not if you make it a habit! Over time, it becomes second nature, and with tools like apps or browser extensions, you don’t have to spend hours searching for deals.
32. Cancel Unnecessary Memberships Challenge
I realised I was paying for multiple memberships I barely used, from a gym membership to streaming services.
For 30 days, I evaluated each membership and either used it regularly or cancelled it. By the end of the month, I was saving more than £50 a month without sacrificing anything important.
Action tip: Log into your bank or credit card accounts to see recurring charges. You might be surprised at the memberships you’re still paying for!
FAQ: What if I still use a membership occasionally?
If you only use it sporadically, consider downgrading to a cheaper plan or pausing the membership until you really need it again.
33. Library Challenge
For avid readers, this is one of the most resourceful 30 day challenge ideas, helping you save money on books and discover new content for free.
For 30 days, I committed to using the library instead of buying new books or paying for digital subscriptions.
I discovered that many libraries offer not just books but also free e-books, audiobooks, and even streaming services.
It’s an incredible resource that I hadn’t fully taken advantage of before this challenge. I even took the opportunity to learn a new language for free using online resources.
Action tip: Get familiar with your local library’s digital offerings—they often have apps like Libby that let you borrow eBooks, audio books or media from anywhere.
34. Financial Literacy Challenge
Learning about money management is one of the most empowering 30 day challenge ideas you can undertake, with long-lasting benefits.
Research conducted by CBI Economics shows that improving your financial literacy can lead to better money management.
I dedicated 30 days to learning more about personal finance. Whether it was reading books, listening to podcasts, or following finance blogs, I gained a wealth of knowledge.
Investing in your financial education can pay off big time! By the end of the month, I felt empowered to make better financial decisions.
Actionable tip: Check out our best personal finance books for women to help you get started.
Inspired by this? Let me tell you about another one of my favourite 30 day challenge ideas.
35. Food Stock Challenge
If you want to clear out your pantry and save on groceries, this is one of the most practical 30 day challenge ideas to try.
For 30 days, I challenged myself to use up the food in my kitchen cupboards and freezer instead of buying more.
It was fun getting creative with meals based on what I already had. I also realised how much food I had been storing up, and by the end of the challenge, my grocery bill was much lower than usual.
Action tip: Take stock of your kitchen cupboard, fridge, and freezer before starting. Plan meals around what you already have and try not to buy any new groceries except for perishables.
FAQ: What if I run out of ingredients?
It’s okay to buy essentials like fresh vegetables or milk, but try to rely on what you already have like pasta, rice, and canned goods for the bulk of your meals.
36. Stop Using Your Credit Card for 30 Days
Want to get out of debt fast and see your savings grow? Try ditching the credit card for a month!
One of the most impactful 30 day challenge ideas for anyone looking to break the cycle of debt is going credit card-free for a month.
Trust me, you will save a lot of money if you just try this challenge.
Research shows that we tend to spend more when using credit cards due to the psychological distance from cash.
A study from MIT found that consumers spend more when using credit cards. It’s so easy to swipe and spend without thinking, which is why credit cards can tempt us into buying pricier things.
I was surprised at how much more mindful I became about my spending. I started using cash for smaller purchases, which helped me stick to my budget.
If you are ready to get out of debt, check out our step-by-step guide on how to get out of credit card fast.
Next, let’s uncover a simple way to save without much effort.
37. Spare Change Money Saving Challenge
This is one of the simplest yet surprisingly effective 30 day challenge ideas for gradually building up your savings.
The “Spare Change” challenge is a simple, hassle-free way to boost your savings without really feeling it! It’s amazing how everyday spending can become a secret savings hack.
By collecting loose change over time, I ended up saving much more than I anticipated.
I made it a habit to gather all the coins I found lying around—whether in pockets, bags, or even down the back of the sofa—and popped them into a savings jar.
It turned into a fun little challenge! I even set up a saving jar like this one on Amazon in the kitchen and aimed to fill it by the end of the month. Seeing it gradually fill up was super motivating!
This small step can really add up. You’d be surprised at how much those forgotten coins can accumulate over 30 days. Try it yourself, and watch your savings grow effortlessly!
Now, let’s dive into some 30 day challenge ideas that can shift your mindset and help you build a healthier relationship with money.
38. Give Money Away Everyday Challenge
Experience the joy of giving and watch your mindset about money shift!
I learnt this from the book You Are a Badass with Money. I won’t lie; this was the most difficult at the onset.
Studies show that giving can increase happiness levels and reduce stress.
But as soon as I got started, it was great fun. I discovered there is immense power in giving rather than just getting.
I started by giving small amounts, whether to a friend, a charity, or even paying for someone’s coffee. It became a daily highlight and made me feel more connected to my community.
Actionable Tip: Start small, even if it’s just 1p, and gradually increase the amount as you feel comfortable. It’s the habit that matters, not the amount!
If you’re ready for more, check out this next 30-day challenge idea I absolutely love.
39. 30-Day Gratitude Challenge
Do you know that gratitude can help you save? Don’t take my word for it; just start by writing down three things you are grateful for daily.
This is one of those 30 day challenge ideas that not only saves you money but also improves your overall well-being and happiness.
I tend to write down my top three highlights, and I noticed I started to look forward to writing them down at the end of each day.
You could also use daily journal prompts to reflect on your progress and stay motivated. Cultivating gratitude can also transform your relationship with money!
Research shows that gratitude can lead to better financial decision-making. For more insights, check out our blog post on the power of gratitude.
This challenge helped me focus on the positives in my life, reducing the urge to overspend on unnecessary items to find happiness.
Next, let’s incorporate affirmations into our daily routine for a positive mindset.
40. Tell Yourself This Every Day for 30 Days
I told myself every day how good I was with money.
I repeated these money affirmations in front of the mirror every morning: “I am a good money manager, and I manage my money wisely.”
I kept at it on repeat all day long when I remembered until it became part of me.
Over the month, I noticed a shift in how I approached spending and saving. It felt empowering to reinforce my financial abilities daily.
Positive affirmations can really help boost your confidence and enhance your financial outlook. If you’re looking for some inspiration, rewire your mindset with daily with these powerful financial affirmations for success!
Up for another bonus challenge? Here’s one of my go-to 30 day challenge ideas you won’t want to miss.
41. Budget Your Time Challenge
This is one of the most valuable 30 day challenge ideas as it helps you manage both your time and money more effectively.
Planning your time can help you avoid costly mistakes!
I spent 30 days planning my weeks better to avoid wasting time on last-minute purchases and activities.
From personal experience, I can confidently say that setting aside time for specific tasks helps curb impulsive spending—and research backs this up too!
By the end of the month, I had a clearer view of my priorities and saved money!
By planning and organising your schedule, you create a more mindful approach to life and your finances.
Think of time as your own personal bank account.
Every day, you get a fresh deposit of 1,440 minutes, but here’s the catch—if you don’t use those minutes, they’re gone by midnight!
This way of looking at time really drives home how important it is to use it wisely and intentionally. So, what will you spend your minutes on today? Make them count!
I hope these 30 day challenge ideas inspire you to take control of your finances and build lasting money-saving habits.
FAQs About Completing 30-Day Challenges Successfully
If you’re interested in more tips, let’s look at some common questions people ask me when taking one of these 30 day challenge ideas.
How do I stay motivated for a whole 30 days?
Set small, achievable milestones and celebrate your progress. For example, treat yourself to something small (like a free activity) after completing the first week.
Another great way to stay motivated with your 30-day challenge is to track your progress visually! Tracking your progress through these 30 day challenge ideas can help you stay motivated and see the long-term benefits.
Use a calendar or tracker and celebrate small wins along the way to keep yourself motivated.
Finding an accountability partner can also help. Reach out to friends or join online communities that focus on personal finance or savings challenges.
What should I do if I miss a day?
Don’t be too hard on yourself! The key to success is consistency, not perfection. If you miss a day or make a mistake, just get back on track the next day.
What’s the best way to track my progress?
You can use apps, spreadsheets, or a good old-fashioned journal to record your results. You can also use our Personal Financial Planner to keep track of your expenses, savings, and debt repayments.
How do I choose the right 30-day challenge?
Pick a challenge that feels realistic for you and your current situation. If you’re new to saving, start with a simpler challenge like the Round-Up Savings or Cash-Only Challenge and build from there.
You can also pick one that aligns with your goals and lifestyle. If you’re focused on reducing specific costs (like entertainment or groceries), start there.
One of the best things about 30 day challenge ideas is that they’re flexible—you can adapt them to suit your own lifestyle and goals.
Choose From The 30 Day Challenge Ideas
There you have it—40 different 30 day challenge ideas that can help you save money and improve your money habits.
By trying just one or more of these 30 day challenge ideas, you’ll be amazed at how much progress you can make in just a month
They make saving money fun, easy, and rewarding. Whether you’re decluttering, cutting back on bills, or simply packing your lunch, the key is to take action.
Whether you try one or several, the key is to stay consistent and make the process fun. Remember, the small actions you take now can lead to big changes down the road!
You don’t have to do all of these challenges at once—start with one that excites you and by the end of the month, you’ll be amazed at how much you’ve saved.
If you’re ready to transform your savings and habits, download our 30-day challenge free printable and give one or more of these 30 day challenge ideas a try—you’ll be amazed at the results!
Which one will you try first?
Good luck, and happy saving!
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