Save money in Switzerland - 66 tips from us
Funny and interesting things you did not know about Switzerland
5/8/20245 min read
Switzerland is known for its breathtaking landscapes, efficient public services, and high quality of life. However, it also has a reputation for being one of the most expensive countries in the world. Whether you are a local or an expatriate, saving money while enjoying all that Switzerland has to offer is a smart move. Here are 66 practical and essential tips to help you save money in Switzerland in 2025 and beyond.
1. Leverage Supermarket Loyalty Cards
Major supermarkets like Coop and Migros offer loyalty cards that provide discounts and points you can redeem for future purchases.
2. Shop During Weekly Promotions
Keep an eye out for weekly flyers and promotions. Supermarkets frequently offer discounts on essentials.
3. Buy in Bulk
Purchase non-perishable items in bulk at discount stores like Aldi and Lidl to reduce costs in the long run.
4. Use Local Farmers’ Markets
Shop at local farmers’ markets for fresh produce, which is often cheaper and better quality than supermarket offerings.
5. Switch to Generic Brands
Opt for supermarket-owned brands instead of name-brand products; they are often just as good but cost significantly less.
6. Take Advantage of “Too Good to Go”
Download the "Too Good to Go" app to buy surplus food from restaurants and bakeries at a fraction of the original cost.
7. Plan Meals Ahead
Planning your meals for the week helps you avoid unnecessary purchases and reduces food waste.
8. Cook at Home
Limit eating out by cooking meals at home, which can save you hundreds of francs each month.
Find ideas here - Essen Ideen
9. Buy Second-Hand Items
Use platforms like Ricardo, Tutti, or Facebook Marketplace to find second-hand furniture, clothing, and electronics. Look here - Secondhand Switzerland
10. Rent Instead of Buying
For items you’ll only need temporarily, consider renting instead of buying, whether it's ski equipment or tools.
11. Optimize Transportation Costs
Buy a Swiss Half Fare Card or consider regional travel passes for significant savings on train and bus fares.
12. Cycle or Walk
Use a bicycle or walk for short distances to save on public transport and car expenses.
13. Use Car-Sharing Services
Services like Mobility allow you to rent cars by the hour without the cost of ownership.
14. Carpool
Join carpooling communities or use apps like BlaBlaCar to split fuel and toll costs.
15. Get a GA Travelcard
If you frequently use public transportation, a General Abonnement (GA) card provides unlimited travel and could save you a lot.
16. Monitor Electricity Usage
Turn off lights and unplug devices when not in use to save on electricity bills.
17. Switch Energy Providers
Compare energy providers to find the most cost-effective rates in your region.
18. Use Energy-Efficient Appliances
Invest in energy-efficient appliances, which may have a higher upfront cost but will save money over time.
19. Lower Heating Costs
Reduce heating by a couple of degrees and wear warmer clothing indoors.
20. Bundle Insurance Policies
Combine insurance policies like health, car, and home to get discounts from providers.
21. Increase Your Deductible
Choose a higher deductible on your insurance policies to lower monthly premiums.
22. Shop Around for Health Insurance
Compare premiums across different health insurance providers and switch to a cheaper one if needed.
23. Use Generic Medication
Ask your doctor for generic medication to save on pharmacy costs.
24. Cancel Unused Subscriptions
Audit your recurring subscriptions and cancel the ones you no longer use.
25. Streamline Mobile Plans
Switch to a low-cost provider or prepaid plan to reduce phone expenses.
26. Use Free Wi-Fi
Take advantage of free Wi-Fi at libraries, cafes, and public spaces instead of using mobile data.
27. Embrace Minimalism
Adopt a minimalist lifestyle by prioritizing quality over quantity in your purchases.
28. DIY Home Repairs
Learn basic home repair skills to avoid hiring expensive professionals for small jobs.
29. Opt for Co-Living Spaces
Share rent and utilities by living in co-living spaces or with roommates.
30. Negotiate Rent
Inquire if your landlord is open to lowering rent, especially if similar apartments in the area are cheaper.
31. Shop Tax-Free
As a visitor, take advantage of tax-free shopping when buying goods in Switzerland.
32. Explore Free Attractions
Visit Switzerland’s stunning lakes, hiking trails, and cultural landmarks that cost nothing.
33. Use Museum Passes
Buy a Swiss Museum Pass for unlimited access to over 500 museums.
34. Sign Up for Local Deals
Subscribe to deal platforms like DeinDeal and QoQa to access discounted activities and products.
35. Travel During Off-Peak Seasons
Plan trips during off-peak times to save on accommodation and activities.
36. Book Train Tickets Early
Advance booking can result in significant savings on train fares.
37. Consider Homestays
Save on accommodation costs by choosing homestays or vacation rentals over hotels.
38. Buy Seasonal Produce
Stick to seasonal fruits and vegetables to save money at the grocery store.
39. Grow Your Own Herbs
Planting herbs at home can save you money and provide fresh ingredients year-round.
40. Use Cashback Apps
Apps like Reebee and Cashback World help you earn cashback on everyday purchases.
41. Participate in Swaps
Join local swap events to exchange clothing, books, and other items for free.
42. Recycle Electronics
Bring old electronics to recycling centers and get potential cashback or discounts on new purchases.
43. Reduce Banking Fees
Opt for no-fee or low-fee bank accounts and use ATMs strategically to avoid charges.
44. Avoid Impulse Purchases
Make a list before shopping and stick to it to prevent overspending.
45. Sell Unused Items
Declutter and sell unwanted items on platforms like Anibis or Ricardo.
46. Take Free Classes
Look for free workshops and courses offered by local libraries or community centers.
47. Join Libraries
Save on books and entertainment by borrowing from local libraries instead of buying.
48. Take Advantage of Student Discounts
Students can save on transportation, entertainment, and more with an ISIC card.
49. Use Free Online Tools
Access free online tools and software instead of paying for premium services.
50. Cut Hair at Home
Learn basic hair-cutting skills to save on salon visits.
51. Use Public Healthcare Services
Whenever possible, utilize public healthcare options to save on medical expenses.
52. Choose Generic Cleaning Products
Buy supermarket-branded cleaning supplies to cut household costs.
53. Host Potlucks
Instead of dining out, host potluck dinners where everyone brings a dish.
54. Buy Discounted Gift Cards
Purchase discounted gift cards online for stores you frequently visit.
55. Utilize Employee Benefits
Check with your employer for discounts and perks such as gym memberships or travel deals.
56. Buy Refurbished Electronics
Opt for refurbished gadgets to save money while still getting quality items.
57. Switch to E-Bills
Save on paper and postage fees by switching to electronic billing.
58. Learn to Sew
Repair clothes instead of buying new ones to extend their lifespan.
59. Borrow Instead of Buying
Borrow books, tools, and other items from friends or neighbors when needed.
60. Volunteer for Events
Get free entry to events and festivals by signing up as a volunteer.
61. Buy Seasonal Ski Passes
Purchase ski passes during pre-season sales to save significantly.
62. Use Price Comparison Sites
Compare prices online before making any major purchases.
63. Explore Free Fitness Options
Join free fitness groups or use outdoor gyms to stay active without a membership.
64. Take Staycations
Explore local attractions instead of traveling abroad for vacations.
65. Track Expenses
Use budgeting apps to keep track of your spending and identify areas to cut costs.
66. Build an Emergency Fund
Save a portion of your income for emergencies to avoid debt in unexpected situations.
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