Ever wonder why your friend always seems to have extra cash? This article breaks down everyday expenses you might be paying for, while your friend finds ways to get them for free.

Common Expenses You’re Stuck Paying That Your Friends Get for Free

Ever wonder why your friend always has some money left over for brunch or an impromptu weekend getaway, while you're checking your bank account twice? Sometimes it's not a matter of making more money, but a matter of knowing where not to spend. 

The reality is that many people receive access to things for free, or at least deeply discounted, simply by being smart. If you’re footing the bill for any of these, there’s a good chance your friend is finding a free workaround.

Streaming Subscriptions

Netflix, Spotify, HBO Max. before you know it, it adds up quickly. But here's the thing: your friend may not be paying for any of them. Lots of folks split the cost with family or roommates—or share accounts (sshh). Some even get student discounts or free trials using rotating emails. While you may be paying full price every month out of convenience.

Take a look at your subscriptions. If you’re the only one funding the entertainment, it might be time to either share the cost—or the password.

Gym Memberships and Fitness Classes

While you’re paying $40 to $100 a month for access to a gym, your friend might be working out for free. They could be using fitness apps, outdoor classes, YouTube workouts, or community centres. Some companies even offer free or discounted memberships as part of their wellness benefits.

Before reviving that expensive gym membership, look around to see what alternatives are available to you. Chances are you can remain healthy without the monthly expense.

Banking Fees

ATM charges, overdraft fees, and monthly maintenance on accounts—these charges creep up on you. But your friend? They likely bank with a fee-free online account, or they've negotiated with their bank to waive fees. Some credit unions and newer online banks even have no-fee checking and refund ATM fees.

If you're continuing to lose money just to make use of your money, perhaps it's time to change. A couple of tweaks can pay you hundreds of dollars a year.

Food Delivery Charges

That $12 pad Thai instantly becomes $20 with service charges, tips, and delivery fees. But your buddy may be having it delivered for free—or cheaper. A lot of individuals use promo codes, rewards programs, or credit cards that pay for the delivery fee. Some don't even use the apps but go pick up their food in order to save.

It's worth seeing if your favourite delivery app has a loyalty scheme or whether any of your credit cards include secret food benefits.

Travel and Flights

Your friend just returned from a Miami weekend while you're still recovering from that one night at the hotel last spring. The secret? They may be staying on points, rewards, or corporate rates. Others also get last-minute bargains, travel during off-season, or crash with friends to save money.

If you're constantly paying full fare, look into learning the fundamentals of travel hacking or taking advantage of flight tracking apps. Even minor adjustments—such as booking on specific days or employing the proper card—can pay huge dividends.

Tech and Software Subscriptions

Are you shelling out monthly for design software, photo storage, or music editing software? Your friend may be leveraging free versions, student plans, or workplace accounts. Most companies have robust free plans if you don't mind working with restricted features or the occasional ad.

Before auto-renewing another subscription, look for a free alternative. You may discover that you don't need to pay for every tool in your digital toolbox.

Stop Overpaying—And Know When to Use Smart Tools Like Pay Advance

Other times, the gap between you and your always-in-the-black friend isn't the money—it's the strategy. They've just learned how to play the system a little better. But if you're still struggling to pay bills and come out ahead, it's okay to need a helping hand every now and then.

That's where pay advance apps might come in handy. Consider them like a temporary game power-up—they provide access to money you've already earned, allowing you to pay bills without getting drawn into debt. With that said, check out Australia’s leading wage advance app and get your pay early. Download the app now on the App Store or Google Play and have early access to your pay of up to $2,000.

For additional help in improving your spending habits, you can always download Wagetap. It is a leading wage advance and bill split app that allows you to access your pay early. Emergencies can always happen and Wagetap can help you handle life's unexpected expenses.