How to Avoid Tariffs and Save Money on Everyday Purchases

President Donald Trump’s tariffs are expected to raise the price of just about everything we import. 

The United States is the world’s largest importer, so that pair of sneakers, your new coffee maker and even fresh produce are expected to come with a higher price tag thanks to tariffs. The full effects of these tariffs have yet to be realized, but tariff news has already rocked the economy, sending the stock market into its worst days since 2020. 

However, there are ways to dodge some of the incoming price hikes caused by tariffs. It may take some creativity and a shift in your consumer habits, but you can minimize harm to your household budget. 

What Are Tariffs and How Do They Work?

Tariffs are taxes the U.S. government places on goods imported from other countries. When those taxes go up, the cost of those items usually goes up, too — and that expense likely will get passed on to you, the consumer. 

Tariffs can be used as a means to protect U.S. manufacturers by making imported goods more expensive, encouraging people to buy domestic alternatives. They’re also used during trade negotiations — think of them as a financial form of pressure in international discussions.

But economists agree that the broad scope of Trump’s tariffs will do more harm than good, increasing inflation and the odds for an upcoming recession. Already, the stock market has taken a nasty tumble and layoffs have commenced. For instance, automaker Stellantis has temporarily laid off 900 of its US workers and Whirlpool announced its laying off 650 workers from its Middle Amana plant in Iowa.

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Which Tariffs Are Currently in Place in the U.S.?

Below are the tariffs currently in place. 

• 10% tariffs on all U.S. imports: Imports from all countries other than China will be tariffed 10%, Trump announced April 9, reversing course on reciprocal tariffs that rocked the stock market.
• China: Chinese goods will be tariffed at a rate of 125% as of April 9.
• 25% tariffs on foreign cars and car parts: These went into effect on April 2. While about half of new cars sold in the U.S. are made domestically, they use imported parts.
• 25% tariff on steel and aluminum imports: The 25% ad valorem tariff on imports of steel and aluminum from all countries, with no exceptions or exemptions, took effect on March 12.

How Long Will These Tariffs Last?

That’s the tricky part — we don’t know. Trump has recently said tariffs will stay until trade deficits with China, the EU and other nations have disappeared. (A trade deficit is when the value of a country’s imports exceed the value of its exports.) He’s also said he wants Canada to become the 51st state. There is no clear end date associated with these tariffs. 

Your best bet? Stay updated. Watch the news. The U.S. Trade Representative’s website and consumer advocacy groups offer insights on tariff changes, too. If you’re informed, you’ll know when prices might spike and can adjust your shopping plans accordingly.

9 Smart Ways to Avoid Tariff-Driven Price Hikes

In some cases, you won’t be able to dodge tariff-induced price hikes. But these changes can help you sidestep tariff-driven inflation — and many of them are better for your wallet long-term anyway.

1. Shop Secondhand

Pre-owned goods dodge tariffs completely. Check out your local thrift shops and look for quality items that will last. Facebook Marketplace, Craigslist and eBay can be digital treasure troves for quality finds — often at a fraction of the price. Bonus: You’ll keep usable items out of landfills.

2. Use Online Shopping Tools to Identify Deals 

Shopping online? Use tools like Capital One Shopping to track price history, get alerts when costs drop and earn rewards. You can also sign up for price-drop or restock alerts on retail websites. 

3. Buy Local or American-Made Products

Products made in the U.S. aren’t subject to import tariffs. Look for “Made in USA” labels, especially on clothing, tools and home goods. Some smaller American brands even highlight their tariff-free status.

4. Cut Down on Unnecessary Spending

Now’s the time to ask yourself: Do I really need this? Try the 30-day rule — wait a month before purchasing big-ticket items. Often, you’ll realize you can do without.

5. Swap and Barter with Neighbors

Tools, toys, clothes, kitchen appliances — we all have things sitting unused. Keep an eye out for curb alerts in your neighborhood. Check out local Facebook groups or host a community swap event.

6. Browse Local Freebie Groups

Nextdoor, Buy Nothing groups, Freecycle and local Facebook pages often list items people want to give away. Just be cautious of scams, and never share personal info unnecessarily.

7. Grow Your Own Food

Produce prices can spike with tariffs and inflation. Starting a container garden with herbs, lettuce or tomatoes can cut your grocery bill. You can even start a garden using kitchen scraps. Many libraries now offer free seed exchanges. And if you need help getting started, consult your local extension office. 

8. Delay Big Purchases When Possible

If prices are high now, they might drop once a tariff ends. Consider holding off on major buys like appliances or electronics, many of which are made overseas, and check secondhand markets in the meantime.

9. Check Discount Stores and Off-Season Deals

As consumer spending slows, discount stores and closeout retailers like Ollie’s Bargain Outlet have the opportunity to buy overstocked and unsold inventory at low prices, passing the savings on to you. Off-season shopping also yields better deals on clothing, tools and furniture.

Final Thoughts: Frugal Living in a Tariff Economy

We won’t sugarcoat the economic effects of tariffs — nearly everything is about to get more expensive. But some adjustments can help you mitigate the ripple effects of rising tariffs. Plus, these strategies align with the core values of frugal living: intentional spending, community resourcefulness and smart saving.

By staying alert and adaptable, you can minimize the effects of these price hikes, stretch your dollars and thrive — even when global trade gets complicated.