Living in the Netherlands can be exciting, but it can also be surprisingly expensive. Many people do not know how to save money. They focus on rent and groceries, yet overlook dozens of small costs that quietly drain hundreds, or even thousands, of euros every year.
I write bellow 25 common ways people waste money in the Netherlands and how you can avoid them.
1. Ignoring Loyalty Programs
Many supermarkets and retailers offer loyalty schemes that provide discounts, points, and free products.
Programs from Albert Heijn, Kruidvat and others can save frequent shoppers a good amount each year.
For example, while Albert Heijn is not the most cheap supermarket in the Netherlands if you are a frequent shopper you can save €30 – €200+ annually. To do so you need careful planning, check for good discounts and do not forget to fill-in your Bonus Box every week.
2. Leaving Your Savings in a Regular Bank Account
Many Dutch bank accounts pay little or no interest. Leaving several thousand euros sitting idle means losing money to inflation.
If you want high interest without taking investment risk, a regular bank account is often the sweet spot. Platforms like Raisin allow you to access higher-interest savings accounts across EU banks and stay within the EU deposit guarantee scheme.
3. Missing Birthday Freebies
Did you know that many Dutch brands reward customers with birthday freebies? A few simple sign-ups can unlock free snacks, discounts, and gifts worth €20–€50 each year. The savings are a bonus, the best part is being spoiled with unexpected treats on your birthday.
4. Buying All Your Clothes New
The Netherlands has excellent second-hand options. You can buy cheap and good-quality clothes at platforms such as Sellpy, Vinted, and local thrift stores often sell nearly new clothing for a fraction of retail prices.
5. Shopping at the Most Expensive Supermarkets
Not all supermarkets are equal. You can save money in groceries by shopping at Lidl, Aldi, weekly markets and ethic supermarkets.
6. Ignoring Weekly Promotions
Dutch supermarkets heavily promote products through weekly offers. Planning meals and buying toiletries around promotions can significantly reduce grocery costs.
7. Paying Too Much for Mobile Data
Many people continue using expensive international plans after moving in the Netherlands when cheaper Dutch alternatives are available. Compare providers regularly to avoid overpaying.
8. Staying Loyal to Your Energy Provider
Energy prices change frequently. Many households stay with the same provider for years without checking whether cheaper alternatives exist. Don’t forget to compare and switch energy supplier!
9. Ordering Too Much Through Delivery Apps
Food delivery can easily double the cost of a meal. A few orders per week may add up to hundreds of euros each month. Take the time to plan your meals so you do not need to order food last moment.
10. Not Understanding Dutch Health Insurance
Choosing the wrong deductible or supplementary package can result in unnecessary costs. Review your insurance policy every year and find the best health insurance deal.
11. Paying for Unused Streaming Services
Netflix, Disney+, HBO Max, Spotify, and other subscriptions can quietly accumulate. Review recurring payments every few months.
12. Buying New Furniture
The Netherlands has a thriving second-hand market. Why buy new when Marktplaats often offers quality furniture at a fraction of retail prices?
13. Not Using Koopzegels
Many supermarkets offer savings stamp programs. While often overlooked, some provide attractive returns.
14. Overlooking Supermarket Discounts
Did you know that with smart shopping you can reduce your supermarket bill even by 30%?
15. Not Comparing Internet Providers
Many people keep the same provider for years despite better deals becoming available. A quick comparison can save hundreds annually.
16. Renting a Car When Public Transport Would Do
The Dutch transport network is excellent. For occasional trips, trains and buses may be cheaper than car rental.
17. Owning a Car Without Understanding the Full Cost
Many people focus only on the purchase price. Before you buy a (second hand) car estimate all the additional expenses such as insurance, road tax, fuel and maintenance.
18. Buying Coffee Every Day
Many people have said it. Even more people have underestimated. A daily €4 coffee doesn’t seem expensive until you realize it can exceed €1,000 per year.
19. Ignoring Employers Benefits
Many employers offer travel reimbursement, bicycle schemes and working from home allowance. Not using these benefits is effectively leaving money on the table.
20. Not Negotiating Your Salary
Many expats accept the first offer they receive. Even a modest salary increase can have a significant impact over time.
21. Paying Full Price For Electronics
Dutch retailers frequently run promotions. Checking price comparison websites before purchasing can save substantial amounts.
22. Not Knowing about Tax Free Savings and Investments
The thresholds up to which your savings and investments remain tax‑free are changing every year. Educate yourself.
23. Living in the Most Expensive Areas
Many newcomers automatically target the rent in the city centers. One way to save money in rent is to look for houses outside the city (center). They often provide much better value while maintaining good transport connections.
24. Not Refinancing your Mortgage
Owing a house? Is its value increased? Time to refinance your Dutch mortgage.
25. Not Reviewing Expenses Regularly
One of the biggest mistake is never checking where your money goes. A simple monthly review often reveals subscriptions and services you do not really need.
Until next time, stay savvy.
Mew
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