Saving Money in the Netherlands: A Local's Guide to Frugal Living

If you're wondering how to save money in the Netherlands, you've come to the right place. Whether you're an expat or a local, living in this beautiful country can be expensive, but don't worry – I've got your back! As someone who's been living here for years, I've picked up quite a few tricks to stretch my euros further. In this article, I'll share my top tips for saving money in the Netherlands without sacrificing your quality of life. Let's dive in!

Optimize Housing Costs

Let's face it – housing is likely your biggest expense, especially with rent in the Netherlands being notoriously high. But there are ways to keep those costs down. When I first moved here, I made the mistake of living right in the city center. Big mistake! I was paying through the nose for a tiny apartment. Here's what I learned:

- Look for places just outside the city center. You'll be surprised how much cheaper rent can be just a few kilometers away.

- Consider sharing a place. Websites like Kamernet are great for finding roommates.

- If you're a student or young professional, look into anti-squat housing. It's a unique Dutch concept that can save you a ton on rent.

Remember, living costs vary a lot between cities. Amsterdam is notorious for high prices, while cities like Groningen or Eindhoven can be much more affordable.

Smart Grocery Shopping Strategies

Food is another big chunk of your budget, but there are plenty of ways to save. Grocery shopping in Amsterdam and other Dutch cities can be quite expensive if you're not careful. Here's what works for me:

- Shop at budget supermarkets. If you're wondering about the cheapest supermarket in Amsterdam, check out Lidl and Aldi. The quality is good, and you'll save a bunch.

- Use apps like "Reclamefolder" to find the best deals each week.

- Buy in bulk when there are good deals, especially for non-perishables.

- Don't ignore the "ugly" fruits and veggies. Many supermarkets offer discounts on imperfect produce that tastes just as good.

Pro tip: Shop at local markets near closing time. You can often snag great deals as vendors try to sell off their remaining stock. This is a great way to find cheap Dutch food in Amsterdam and other cities.

Embrace Dutch Cycling Culture

When in Rome, do as the Romans do – or in this case, when in the Netherlands, cycle like the Dutch! Cycling isn't just a great way to get around; it's also incredibly budget-friendly. Here's why I love it:

- It's basically free once you have a bike.

- You'll save on public transport costs and gym memberships (hello, built-in exercise!).

- Parking is usually free for bikes, unlike cars.

If you're not ready to buy a bike, check out Swapfiets. For about €15 a month, you get a bike and free repairs. It's been a game-changer for many expats I know.

Leverage Public Transport Savings

Sometimes you need to use public transport, and that's okay! Here's how to make it more affordable:

- Get an OV-chipkaart. It's cheaper than buying individual tickets.

- If you travel a lot, consider a monthly or annual subscription. I saved a ton when I switched to a yearly pass.

- Travel outside peak hours if possible. It's often cheaper and less crowded.

Don't forget to check if your employer offers any travel reimbursements. Many Dutch companies do, and it can make a big difference.

Utilize Money-Saving Apps and Websites

Technology is your friend when it comes to saving money. Here are some apps and websites I swear by:

- Too Good To Go: Rescue food from restaurants and shops at a fraction of the price. This is a great way to try cheap Dutch food in Amsterdam and other cities.

- Marktplaats: The Dutch version of eBay. Great for second-hand finds.

- Tikkie: Makes splitting bills with friends super easy.

- Honey: A browser extension that automatically finds discount codes when you shop online.

These tools have saved me hundreds of euros over the years. Give them a try!

Explore Free and Low-Cost Activities

Having fun doesn't have to cost a fortune. The Netherlands is full of free and cheap activities if you know where to look:

- Many museums are free with a Museumkaart (around €65 per year).

- Enjoy free concerts and events, especially during summer.

- Explore nature – we have beautiful national parks that are free to visit.

One of my favorite free activities is just wandering around the beautiful Dutch cities. The architecture and canals are like free open-air museums!

Take Advantage of Government Benefits

The Dutch government offers several benefits that can help you save money:

- Zorgtoeslag: If you earn below a certain amount, you can get a healthcare allowance.

- Huurtoeslag: Rent benefit for those with lower incomes.

- Student finance: If you're studying, check if you're eligible for Dutch student finance.

Don't leave money on the table – check www.toeslagen.nl to see what you might be eligible for.

Minimize Dining Out Expenses

Eating out can quickly drain your budget, but you don't have to give it up entirely. Here's how I balance it:

- Cook at home most of the time. Dutch supermarkets have great ready-to-cook meal kits if you're short on time.

- When eating out, look for "dagschotel" (dish of the day) specials. They're often much cheaper.

- Use restaurant discount apps like TheFork to get deals.

My personal rule is to limit eating out to once a week. It makes it feel more special and keeps my budget in check. When I do eat out, I often look for cheap Dutch food in Amsterdam or other cities I'm visiting.

Reduce Subscription and Utility Costs

Those small monthly costs can add up quickly. Here's how to keep them in check:

- Regularly compare energy providers. Websites like Pricewise make it easy.

- Review your subscriptions. Do you really need all those streaming services?

- Consider a SIM-only phone plan. They're often much cheaper than contracts with phones included.

I saved over €200 a year just by switching energy providers and cutting one streaming service I barely used.

Master Groceries Savings

Let's dive a bit deeper into groceries savings, as this is a significant part of your monthly expenses. The cheapest supermarket in Amsterdam might vary depending on your specific needs, but here are some general tips:

- Compare prices between different supermarkets. While Lidl and Aldi are often the cheapest, sometimes Albert Heijn or Jumbo have great deals on specific items.

- Buy seasonal produce. It's usually cheaper and tastier.

- Look for house brands. They're often just as good as name brands but much cheaper.

- Use loyalty cards. Most supermarkets offer them, and the points can add up to significant savings.

Remember, the key to groceries savings is planning. Make a list before you go shopping and stick to it. This helps avoid impulse buys and ensures you're only buying what you need.

Conclusion: Small Changes, Big Savings

Living in the Netherlands doesn't have to break the bank. By making a few smart choices and embracing the local culture, you can save money without feeling like you're missing out. Remember, it's all about balance. You don't have to implement all these tips at once – start with one or two that resonate with you and go from there.

I hope these tips help you make the most of your life in the Netherlands without stressing about money. Whether you're trying to save on rent in the Netherlands, looking for the cheapest supermarket in Amsterdam, or just want to know how to save money in general, these strategies can help.

Have you tried any of these strategies? Or do you have your own money-saving tips to share? I'd love to hear about your experiences in the comments below.

Now, go out there and start saving those euros! Before you know it, you'll have enough saved up for a nice Dutch holiday – maybe a cozy weekend in Giethoorn or a beach trip to Texel. Happy saving!