Credit: Kekeli K. Blamey
In an era of soaring prices, data bundles that vanish overnight, and weekend outings that empty wallets faster than you can say “MoMo me,” young Ghanaians are rethinking their social and spending habits.
But rather than going full-blown frugal, many are adopting a balanced lifestyle—enjoying the soft life while keeping their wallets in check.
Here are eight smart lifestyle habits that are helping a growing number of young Ghanaians save more without sacrificing fun.
- Meal Prepping Is the New Takeout
Buying waakye every morning or ordering from food apps may look harmless—until it eats half your salary. A growing number of people now cook in bulk over the weekend, storing meals in containers for the week. It’s not just cost-effective; it also helps control portions and reduce food waste.
“I used to spend over GH₵80 daily on food. Now, I cook every Sunday and save more than GH₵400 a week,” said Jennifer, a freelance designer in Sogakope.
- Fintech to the Rescue
Saving has become easier with digital tools. From mobile banking to apps like Ezeepay and Fido, people are now using automated saving pots, “round-up savings,” and goal trackers to stash cash without feeling the pinch.
Even better? Some apps lock the money until a set date—removing the temptation of impulsive MoMo transfers.
- Side Hustle Is a Lifestyle
It’s not just a money move anymore—it’s identity. Whether it’s wig-making, mobile photography, digital marketing, or flipping thrift clothes on Instagram, young people are turning hobbies into income.
“Your 9–5 pays the bills, but your 6–10 builds the future,” reads one trending meme circulating among TikTok freelancers.
- Bye Bye, Uber Everywhere
With fuel prices constantly rising, ride-hailing apps are no longer casual options. Instead, many now carpool with friends, join group rides on Bolt Share, or even “drop to trotro” on some days to cut transport costs in half.
Plus, walking to nearby places is becoming a wellness trend—saving cash while boosting health.
- Budgeting for the Weekend
From Thursday night till Sunday, Accra is alive—but so is spending. Many young adults now plan their fun with a set budget. Some cap weekend enjoyment at GH₵200, prioritising chill link-ups, house hangouts, and BYOB (bring your own bottle) nights.
This new “planned enjoyment” culture means you can have fun and money left on Monday morning.
- Thrift Fashion Goes Mainstream
Gone are the days when thrift meant shame. Now, everyone’s proudly rocking Kantamanto finds and vintage outfits. Influencers even brag about styling ₵25 jeans better than someone in designer wear.
Swapping clothes with friends for events is also on the rise—no need to buy a new outfit for every all-white brunch or sip & paint.
- Data Hacks & Wi-Fi Sharing
Mobile data is expensive—and many know it too well. That’s why people are scheduling downloads over Wi-Fi, using offline modes for Spotify/Netflix, or even sharing hotspot costs with roommates.
Simple tricks like checking auto-updates or disabling background apps have become saving hacks everyone’s talking about.
- The No-Spend Day Challenge
At least once or twice a week, some young Ghanaians now declare a “no-spend day.” That means no food purchases, no data bundles, no online shopping—just using what’s already available.
It’s a discipline that adds up, especially over a month—and gives you time to re-centre your spending habits.
The Bigger Picture
Today’s Ghanaian youth aren’t rejecting enjoyment—they’re simply learning to enjoy wisely. Saving is no longer boring or reserved for adulthood. It’s now part of the soft life narrative: peace of mind, financial confidence, and still showing up in style.
Because really, what’s softer than living your best life—and still having money left by the 20th?
