During tough times in British history, particularly during the Great Depression and World War II, resourcefulness became a way of life.
There was no choice, really. Families across the UK learned to stretch every penny, make do with what they had, and find creative ways to keep going despite the tough challenges they were faced with. And while we may feel like those times were ancient history, the short-cuts and workarounds people who lived through this tumultuous period used can be just as helpful and relevant today. After all, wages aren’t rising, but living costs certainly are, so we can all use some practical ways to save money, reduce waste, and live more sustainably. These lessons from Britain’s past are timeless, and we can and should still use them today.
1. Mend and make do.
The phrase “make do and mend” became iconic during World War II for a reason. It encouraged families to repair, rather than replace, their clothes. Sewing kits were as essential as anything else in the home, and worn-out garments were often repurposed into patches, quilts, or even cleaning cloths. This is just as useful today, not only is it more economical, but it’s also better for the environment. Learning to sew a button, patch a tear, or find a local tailor can help your clothes last longer, save you money, and reduce the massive amounts of textile waste we create today.
2. Grow your own vegetables.
Source: Unsplash During the Dig for Victory campaign in World War II, British families were encouraged to grow their own food, especially when things like fresh produce were in short supply. Back gardens, allotments, and even windowsills became places to grow everything from potatoes to cabbages. Gardening today is still a great way to save money and enjoy fresh, home-grown produce. Even if you don’t have much space, growing a few herbs or salad greens can give you that self-sufficient feel and reduce your reliance on the supermarket.
3. Cook with what you have.
Rationing during wartime taught families to get creative with whatever ingredients they had on hand. Recipes like Woolton pie and bread pudding were born from the need to make do with what was available. The lesson? Delicious meals don’t need to be expensive or extravagant. You can save money and reduce food waste by cooking with what you’ve already got in the fridge or cupboards. It’s a great way to stretch your budget while making the most of every ingredient.
4. Waste not, want not.
The “waste not, want not” mentality defined life in Britain through the 1930s and 1940s. Leftovers were turned into soups or casseroles, and even vegetable peelings were put to use to make broths. This simple habit can still save you a lot of money and help reduce food waste. By composting or using every last bit of what’s in your kitchen, you can create meals that are both sustainable and economical. Every scrap can have a second life, and that’s something we can all get behind.
5. Use second-hand goods.
During tough times, buying second-hand wasn’t just practical, it was necessary. Families used hand-me-downs for clothes, furniture, and tools. Thrift shops, flea markets, and charity shops were staples of everyday life. These days, second-hand shopping is not only eco-conscious, but also trendy. Charity shops, vintage stores, and online marketplaces like Vinted or Facebook Marketplace make it easy to find quality goods at a fraction of the price. It’s a great way to save money while doing something good for the planet.
6. Preserve the harvest.
Preserving seasonal fruits and vegetables to last through the winter was common practice during times of scarcity. People made jams, chutneys, and pickled vegetables to ensure they had food during the colder months. You can do the same today to save money and reduce food waste. Preserving seasonal produce when it’s at its cheapest and most abundant allows you to enjoy it year-round. Plus, homemade preserves make lovely gifts!
7. Share and barter with neighbours.
During hard times, community spirit was vital. Neighbours often swapped tools, shared items, or traded skills to help each other out. That sense of community was one of the things that made getting through tough times just a little bit easier. Bringing back that sense of togetherness can make life more affordable and enjoyable. Whether it’s borrowing a lawnmower or trading a homemade cake for a bit of babysitting, it’s about creating connections while saving money.
8. Wear things longer.
Fast fashion didn’t exist back in the day. Clothes were made to last, and families took care to preserve their wardrobes by properly storing, washing carefully, and fixing minor damage as soon as it appeared. In today’s world, investing in a few good quality pieces and treating them well will save you money over time. Skip the disposable trends, and you’ll be able to build a sustainable wardrobe that lasts, helping you consume less and get more wear out of what you have.
9. Turn old into new.
Upcycling was second nature for families during the Great Depression and the war. Old curtains were turned into dresses, tin cans were transformed into plant holders, and wooden crates became furniture. Repurposing your old stuff is just as rewarding today. A bit of creativity can turn forgotten items into something useful or beautiful, whether it’s a DIY project or just finding new ways to use what you already have. Not only does this save money, but it also helps reduce waste and gives old items new life.
10. Avoid unnecessary debt.
Source: Unsplash In tough times, borrowing money was often a last resort. Families focused on living within their means and saving for emergencies. While some debt is sometimes unavoidable, adopting a cautious approach can help you stay financially stable. Create a budget, save for unexpected expenses, and avoid buying things you don’t really need. By being mindful of your spending, you’ll avoid unnecessary debt and keep your finances in check.
11. Reuse containers and packaging.
Jars, tins, and fabric bags were never thrown away back then — they were repurposed for storage or household use. Every item had multiple lives in a resourceful British household. These days, we can do the same. Reusing jars for pantry storage, using fabric scraps to wrap gifts, or turning old tins into organisers can save money and reduce our reliance on single-use plastic. It’s an easy and practical way to be more resourceful in daily life.
12. Make your own cleaning products.
When access to commercial cleaning products was limited, families relied on natural solutions like vinegar, baking soda, and soap to keep their homes clean. These DIY remedies were cheap, effective, and eco-friendly. Making your own cleaning products is back in fashion, and it’s an easy way to save money while reducing your environmental footprint. Simple recipes can tackle everything from limescale to stains, proving you don’t need to spend much to keep your home spotless.
13. Budget every penny.
During tough times, careful budgeting wasn’t just a good habit, it was a necessity. Families tracked every penny they spent, making sure to prioritise essentials and cut out non-essentials. In today’s world of contactless payments and constant temptations, it’s easy to lose track of your spending. But by returning to budgeting, whether through apps or traditional methods, you can stay on top of your finances and avoid unnecessary overspending.
14. Appreciate simple pleasures.
Even when things were really hard, people found joy in the simple things — a family walk, a homemade meal, or even just a quiet evening at home. These moments created lasting memories and strengthened bonds. In today’s fast-paced, consumer-driven world, it’s easy to forget how valuable these small, inexpensive pleasures can be. Whether it’s taking a stroll in nature or enjoying a quiet night with family, these simple moments of joy can bring balance and fulfilment to your life without costing a thing.
