When I first moved to the Netherlands, I saved money using the same method as in my home country. I would spend less and buy cheaper products. I did not think to check common ways people living in the Netherlands save money. So I’ve compiled 11 practical money saving tips that almost everyone in the Netherlands uses, and you can too.
1. Switch energy provider (yearly)
Most Dutch households switch energy providers every year to take advantage of welcome bonuses and lower rates.
Savings: Up to €300/year. Tip: Choose a fixed-rate contract during winter to avoid price hikes.
2. Switch health insurance (yearly)
You can only switch health insurers once a year, between mid-November and January 1st. Use sites like Independer to compare plans. Your new insurer will cancel your old insurance for you.
Savings: €100–€200 /year
Tip: Don’t wait until December 31st! It’s good to have time to check your options with no stress.
3. Pay your health insurance in one go if you can
If you can afford it, pay your annual premium upfront. Many insurers offer a discount of around 0.5-1% for doing so.
Savings: ~€30–€50 /year
Tip: Check if your insurer offers this choice before switching.
4. Compare bulk prices in groceries
Dutch supermarkets often reward bulk buying. Use Supermarktscanner.nl to compare prices across stores and use these successful tips to save money on groceries.
Savings: €100+/year
Tip: Lidl and Aldi are consistently cheaper than Albert Heijn.
5. Use Tado (Smart Thermostat)
Tado helps you control heating intelligently, based on your schedule and location. Users report up to 22% savings on heating bills.
Savings: €100–€200 /year
Tip: Combine with radiator knobs for room-by-room control.
6. Cycle as Much as You Can
Cycling isn’t just cultural, it’s economical and it keeps you healthy. 36% of the Dutch report that bike is their primary mode of transportation. They save on fuel, public transport, and gym memberships.
Savings: €200+/year
Tip: Invest in a good second-hand bike and a solid locks. I have to admit that my lock is more expensive that my bike.
7. Buy Second-Hand Clothes
Thrift stores and apps like Vinted or Marktplaats are treasure troves. Dutch people love a good deal and don’t mind pre-loved fashion.
Savings: €100–€300 /year
Tip: Look for “brand new with tags” items, common in Dutch second-hand shops.
8. Buy Winter Clothes in Summer (and Opposite)
Off-season shopping is a Dutch secret. Retailers slash prices to clear stock, and savvy shoppers stock up early.
Savings: €50–€150 /year
Weird Tip: If you are a petite person, you will find amazing discounts. This is because most people in the Netherlands do not fall in the petite category.
9. Sell What You Don’t Need
De-cluttering = cash. Use Marktplaats, Vinted, or local Facebook groups to sell unused items.
Savings: €100–€500 /year
Tip: Electronics, bikes, and baby gear sell fast. Be careful of scammers specially in Facebook Marketplace.
10. Travel Outside School Holidays
Dutch school holidays drive up prices. Traveling off-peak can cut costs by half.
Savings: €200–€600 /trip
Tip: Check here the school holiday dates.
11. Review Your Subscriptions
I never watch Dutch TV. So why was I paying a subscription for it for 3 years? Cancel unused subscriptions like Ziggo TV, magazines, or gym memberships.
Savings: €100–€300 /year
Tip: Go through your bank statements every few months and cancel anything you haven’t used in the last 60 days.
With these money saving tips you will save at least €1000 a year in the Netherlands. Not that bad!
