Save money in Switzerland - 66 tips from us

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.