The COVID-19 pandemic slowed the French economy to a crawl, leaving many households struggling financially. As seasoned personal finance experts, we've compiled 10 practical, everyday strategies to help you save money effectively.
COVID-19 Crisis by the Numbers
Post-COVID-19 outbreak, job losses and partial unemployment hit France hard. Household spending rose by an average of €200 for 55% of families[1][2] on essentials like food, family support, and online learning tech. Meanwhile, overall consumption dropped 18%[3], slashing purchasing power across the board.
These insights underscore the need for smart budgeting. Here are 10 expert-recommended tips to stretch your euros during tough times:
Packaging drives up costs—design and production aren't cheap. Bulk buying skips this expense, letting you purchase exactly what you need without waste. Use apps like Day by Day to find local zero-waste shops and recipe ideas, or check Mes Courses en Vrac for suppliers.
Disposable products harm the environment and your wallet long-term. Swap cotton pads, makeup removers, cling film, sanitary items, and diapers for washable alternatives. They cost more upfront but pay off quickly through reuse and less waste. Shop at Alternativi or French-made options from Pozette.
Self-care matters, but babysitters add up. Team up with neighbors or friends for reciprocal childcare—free or low-cost swaps that save significantly without sacrificing family time.
Canteen lunches average €7.33 per meal[4]—often pricier than home-cooked. Rotate lunch hosting with other parents: two days at your place, two at theirs, and one at school for balance.
App to Fight Food Waste
Grocers throw away perfectly good unsold items daily. Too Good To Go lets you snag these surprise bags at a fraction of the price from partner stores.
Ditch the car for quick errands—fuel adds up fast. Bike, scoot, or walk instead. Rent via Lime (e-scooters) or Vélib' (bikes). A Swedish study shows cars cost 6x more than bikes for short distances.
French households buy 30kg of clothes yearly per person, recycling just 2.5kg[5]. Turn to resale platforms like Vinted, Videdressing, or Vestiaire Collective for bargains, and sell your own for extra cash.
No budget for new pieces? Repaint or upcycle old ones. Hunt deals on Leboncoin for quality second-hand finds at low prices.
Apps like Ma Réduc (daily discounts across categories) and Coupon Network (scan-and-save coupons) make spotting promos effortless.
Affordable Health Coverage
Unexpected medical bills can derail budgets. Strong mutual insurance like La Mutuelle Mieux-Être covers 100% of optics, dental, and audiology on select plans.
Black Friday, French Days, and more deliver deep discounts on fashion, tech, appliances, and beyond. Stay informed to score the best deals.
Heating and hot water eat 75% of household energy bills. Insulate well, adjust thermostats by time of day, and track real-time with Ecojoko or Engie's bill app.
From groceries to transport and energy, these simple shifts yield real savings fast. Our experience shows consistent application transforms finances.
Source:
https://www.la-croix.com/Economie/France/Limpact-economique-Covid-19-trois-chiffres-2020-03-30-1201086985
https://www.consoglobe.com/recyclez-textiles-usages-3305-cg
https://www.marianne.net/economie/les-cantines-scolaires-trop-onereuses-et-inegalitaires-selon-la-cour-des-comptes
[1] Udaf study.
[2] Udaf study.
[3] OFCE.
[4] Report of the Court of Auditors.
[5] Consoblog.
