Saving money doesn’t have to be a boring chore, but it does involve tweaking your lifestyle a bit. If you find yourself staring dumbfounded at your monthly credit card bill wondering how in the world the balance got so high, it’s time to assess your spending habits. Daily expenses add up quick and turn your monthly bills into stress mongrels. To take back control of your pocketbook, you need to sit down and think about where your money is going. Here are five ways to tweak your daily habits and cut back on monthly expenses.

1. Bye-Bye Lattes

Data shows that a cup of coffee averages $2.70 across the U.S., and a latte can run up to $3.78 a cup. If you grab a hot cup of Joe before work every morning, you dish out over $50 per month on coffee alone. Though there’s nothing like sipping a warm, bitter brew that someone else’s hands have expertly crafted, is it really worth dropping all that dough?

Cut back your caffeine and commute by preparing your own coffee at home. Get a nice vacuum-sealed bottle with a sturdy lid to keep your morning booster raging hot for hours. You’ll sip it longer, savor the flavor, and free up extra cash for savings or other expenses.

2. Cash In on Happy Hour

Why pay full price when you can get those delicious mini burgers for $5? Beat the crowd and save some major moolah by hopping into happy hour. Menus are typically limited, but you can get a decent feast and try out new cocktails without turning out your pockets. If going out to eat is part of your lifestyle, consider swapping fine dining for the early bird special and see how it affects your budget.

3. Time to Bundle Up

Home entertainment is a great way to save cash and spend cozy nights alone or with friends and family. However, if you don’t use most of the stations included in your cable package, consider switching to a basic plan. You can always add premium channels that offer shows you actually watch or opt for an on-demand service so that you can select movies a la carte.

Consider bundling your cable, internet, and cell phone services into one plan. You might be able to save a lot of money by bundling. Every now and then check the competitors’ rates to make sure you’re getting the best deal. Be on the lookout for special offers and discounted packages, too. Search online for the best TV cable providers and don’t be afraid to change services if you see a more attractive price. Choose a cable TV provider that offers greater savings and greater perks when you bundle.

4. Thrifty Is Nifty

For all you shopaholics, you can still get your fashionista fix without breaking the bank. Open your doors to the wonderful world of thrift stores and find unique hidden treasures among a mass of discarded designer wear. If you find thrift store shopping overwhelming, start with a list of items you need and your desired colors for each. You might have to hunt through the racks, but knowing what you want helps your brain identify the right pieces.

Also, thrift stores allow you to play around with style and quickly revamp your wardrobe on a dime. You can spruce up your work attire with intricate blouses and rare accessories that no one else at the office owns. You might even luck out on elegant eveningwear for last minute dates and formal events.

5. Get Your Off-Brand On

Sometimes you get what you pay for, and sometimes you get duped. Don’t let grocery stores fool you into buying more expensive items that promise better quality. Chances are that the off-brand equivalent is just as delicious, not to mention cheaper. Also, sometimes off-brand items contain fewer ingredients, which can be a health benefit when selecting processed foods.

The next time you’re in the store, grab a brand-name item and its off-brand equivalent. Look at the nutritional label, ingredients list, and other descriptions and claims. If the two have almost identical characteristics, why not go with the less expensive option?

Ready to Save Big?

Take a good hard look at how you spend your hard-earned cash. Where is all your money going? See if you can cut back by consolidating services, preparing food and beverages at home, and substituting designer garb for previously loved attire. You’ll be surprised at how quickly the little things add up and how easy it is to make big changes.