Cheap 101: The 50-30-20 Rule

The basic rule is to divide up after-tax income and allocate it to spend: 50% on needs, 30% on wants, and socking away 20% to savings. It’s a simple plan designed to help people reach their financial goals. The rule states that you should spend up to 50% of your after-tax income on needs and obligations that you must-have or must-do. The remaining half should be split up between 20% savings and debt repayment and 30% to everything else that you might want. If your already on a tight budget you may have to change the numbers a bit.

For some people saving 20% of their paycheck would be impossible. For others their wants are what they live for and they may throw caution to the wind when it comes to what their needs are. However, sticking to some type of budget is always better than just spending everything without a clear goal in mind. A goal for retirement, a goal for a house, a goal for a new car, etc..

Cash Envelope System

Stay organized and stylish while managing your money with this all-in-one A6 Budget Binder set. Featuring a sleek PU leather cover, 8 zippered cash envelopes, 12 budget sheets, colorful labels, and sticker tabs, it’s a fun and practical way to track spending and save with purpose. Lightweight and compact, it fits easily into a purse or backpack—perfect for budgeting on the go at home, work, school, or while traveling. It also makes a thoughtful, affordable gift for anyone looking to take control of their finances with a simple, hands-on system.

Blockbuster Credit Card Cover

Why flash a fancy card when you can swipe like it’s 1995? The Blockbuster Credit Card Cover turns your card into a nostalgic, budget-friendly icon. With its retro design and glossy, scratch-resistant finish, it says, “I save money—and I miss late fees.” Be kind, rewind… and keep ’em guessing how thrifty you really are.

Give a Sensitive Gift

Looking for a fun cheap gift that moves people—literally? The Touch-Sensitive Mimosa Plant is nature’s most dramatic diva. One poke, and it folds up like it just can’t deal. 🌿 Perfect for plant lovers, curious kids, or that one friend who insists they’re “not emotional,” this little green buddy proves that even your houseplants can have trust issues. It’s interactive, affordable, and way more entertaining than cable.

Book of Knowledge

Who needs cable—or even friends—when you’ve got The Book of Unusual Knowledge? 📚 This 704-page brain buffet is the perfect cheap gift for anyone who’d rather impress strangers with random trivia than pay for streaming services. From politics to penguins, it’s packed with info you didn’t know you needed and definitely can’t use in small talk. Why go out when you can stay in, learn weird facts, and become the most fascinating cheapskate at the next potluck?

Cheapest Shelter Tent

If you’re heading into the great outdoors and need a shelter that’s both budget-friendly and backpack-approved, this ultralight survival tent is a no-brainer. Made from tough, tear-resistant HeatFlex Mylar, it’s windproof, waterproof, and reusable—reflecting heat in cold or hot climates to keep you comfortable in any weather. At just a fraction of the cost (and weight) of traditional shelters, it’s one of the cheapest and lightest emergency tents you can find—perfect for hikers, campers, or anyone building a smart go-bag.