Saving money in Pakistan feels harder than ever these days. Prices keep going up, bills never seem to end, and salaries don’t always increase as fast as expenses.
But here’s the truth — even with a low income, you can still save money in Pakistan. It’s not about how much you earn, it’s about how you manage what you have.
The goal isn’t to become rich overnight. It’s to build financial stability step by step, so you don’t feel stressed every time an unexpected expense comes up.
Let’s look at 6 practical and realistic ways to save money in Pakistan, even if your income is small.
1. Track Every Rupee You Spend
Most people don’t realize where their money goes. They remember the big bills but forget the small daily spends — snacks, tea, mobile packages, or delivery charges. These small amounts quietly eat your savings every month.
Start tracking your expenses — even the tiniest ones. You can use:
A notebook or diary
A simple Google Sheet
Free budgeting apps like Wallet, Money Manager, or AndroMoney
At the end of the month, review your spending. You’ll be surprised to see how much goes into things you didn’t really need.
For example, if you spend Rs. 200 every day on snacks or extra tea, that’s Rs. 6,000 a month — money that could’ve gone into your savings.
Tip: Note every single expense for 30 days. Once you see the numbers clearly, you’ll automatically start spending smarter.
2. Set a Realistic Monthly Budget
Budgeting doesn’t mean restricting yourself — it means planning ahead. It helps you see where your money should go instead of wondering where it went.
Try using the 50/30/20 rule, which works well for most people:
50% for needs — rent, groceries, transport, utilities
30% for wants — dining out, clothes, small luxuries
20% for savings or investments
If your income is low, don’t stress about hitting the perfect ratio. You can start by saving even 5–10% of your salary. The main goal is consistency.
Example:
If you earn Rs. 40,000, try saving Rs. 2,000–4,000 every month.
After one year, that’s Rs. 24,000–48,000 saved — a strong safety net for emergencies.
Bonus Tip:
Set clear financial goals like:
Emergency fund for 3 months of expenses
Saving for a small business or education
Down payment for a motorbike or laptop
When your goal is clear, saving becomes easier and more motivating.
You can even create your own budget using a free Google Sheets Budget Template to track your expenses easily and save money in Pakistan
3. Cut Unnecessary Expenses
This is where real progress happens. Many people say, “I can’t save because my income is low,” but in reality, they’re just spending too much on things they don’t need.
Here are some common money-draining habits to save money in Pakistan:
Ordering food online too often
Buying clothes during every sale
Paying for multiple streaming subscriptions
Upgrading phones before it’s necessary
You don’t have to stop enjoying life — just make smarter choices.
Cook at home 4 days a week instead of eating out daily
Wait 24 hours before buying something online (to avoid impulsive buys)
Buy during Daraz 11.11 or Naheed Big Friday Sales for discounts
Use second-hand or thrift options for non-essentials
Ask yourself:
“Will this purchase make my life better next month?”
If not, skip it and add that money to your savings instead
4. Save Before You Spend
Here’s one of the biggest secrets to saving successfully:
Don’t wait to save what’s left — save first.
As soon as your salary arrives, pay yourself first by moving a fixed amount into a savings account. Treat it like a bill — something non-negotiable.
Even if it’s just Rs. 1,000 or Rs. 2,000, that habit builds your financial muscle.
Over time, you’ll notice how easy it becomes to manage your monthly expenses with what’s left.
Some easy ways to do this:
Create a separate savings account in Meezan Bank, HBL Konnect, or Easypaisa
Use the auto-transfer option to move a fixed amount monthly
Avoid keeping savings in your main account (it’s too tempting to spend)
Example:
If you save Rs. 3,000 each month for two years, you’ll have Rs. 72,000 — without doing anything extra!
Remember, it’s not the amount that matters — it’s the habit that builds long-term security.
5. Start Small Investments or Side Savings
Saving is step one — growing your money is step two. Even small investments can make a big difference over time.
You don’t need lakhs to start investing. Many platforms in Pakistan allow small contributions — even Rs. 500–1,000 a month.
Here are a few options:
National Savings Schemes (safe and steady returns)
Mutual Funds offered by banks like UBL, HBL, or Meezan
Roshan Digital Accounts for overseas families or remittances
Digital gold savings or gold bonds (if you prefer traditional assets)
If you’re new to investing, start by learning first. Watch YouTube tutorials or read blogs about beginner-friendly investments in Pakistan. The goal is to make your money work for you instead of just sitting idle.
And if you don’t want to invest yet, consider a side income:
Freelancing (writing, design, or data entry)
Selling preloved items online
Creating digital products or Canva templates (yes — creative skills can earn too!)
Small earnings can boost your monthly savings — every bit counts.
Find Extra Income Sources (Even Small Ones Count)
Saving money becomes much easier when you have a little extra coming in every month. You don’t need a big business or side job to make it happen — even small efforts can add up over time and from this you can save money in Pakistan.
For example, you can start selling handmade products online, offer a simple service like tutoring or social media help, or use your creative skills to design digital products on platforms like Canva or Fiverr. Even if you make just a few thousand rupees each month, that extra income can go straight into your savings jar.
Try to think of skills you already have — maybe writing, organizing, or even cooking — and turn them into small money-making opportunities. Once you start earning a bit more, you can divide your income: one part for needs, one part for savings, and one part for fun or learning.
Remember, increasing your income doesn’t always mean working harder — it means working smarter.Remember, increasing your income doesn’t always mean working harder — it means working smarter.
Common Mistakes People Make While Saving
Many people try to save but give up quickly because they make simple mistakes. Here are a few to avoid:
No clear goal: If you’re saving “just to save,” you’ll lose motivation fast. Always know why you’re saving.
Impulse shopping: Online sales and ads tempt you — don’t fall for short-term satisfaction.
Comparing with others: Everyone’s financial situation is different. Focus on your progress.
Not tracking progress: Check your savings monthly. Seeing growth keeps you motivated.
Touching savings for small expenses: Keep your savings separate and only use them for emergencies or planned goals.
Avoiding these mistakes will make your saving habit stronger and more sustainable.
Mindset Matters: Think Long-Term
Saving money isn’t just about cutting expenses — it’s about changing your mindset.
When you start thinking long-term, your spending habits naturally improve.
For example:
You’ll prefer durable items over cheap ones.
You’ll value experiences over showing off things.
You’ll start feeling secure knowing you have backup savings.
Even if your income is small, your mindset can make a huge difference.
Start believing that saving is possible — and it will be.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. How can I save money in Pakistan fast?
Start by tracking your daily expenses and cutting small unnecessary costs like eating out or impulse shopping. Set a fixed amount to save as soon as you receive your salary. Even small, consistent savings grow quickly over time. Best option to save money in Pakistan.
2. What is the best way to save money on a low salary?
The best way is to make a budget and follow the “save first, spend later” rule. Save at least 5–10% of your income before spending on anything else. Use affordable options for groceries, transport, and entertainment.
3. Where can I keep my savings safely in Pakistan?
You can use trusted options like Meezan Bank Savings Account, HBL Konnect, Easypaisa Savings, or National Savings Schemes. Always choose banks with a good reputation and never share your account details with anyone.
4. How much should I save from my monthly income?
Try saving 10–20% of your salary every month. If that feels difficult at first, start with a smaller amount and increase it gradually. The important thing is to build the habit, not the amount.
5. What are some easy investment options for beginners in Pakistan?
Beginners can explore National Savings Certificates, Mutual Funds, or Digital Savings Accounts. These options are safer and don’t require large investments. Always read the terms carefully before investing.
Conclusion
Save money in Pakistan might feel challenging, but it’s 100% possible with the right approach.
When you track your spending, budget wisely, cut extra costs, save first, and invest smartly, you take control of your finances — no matter how much you earn.
Remember: “It’s not about how much you make — it’s about how you manage what you have.”
Start small today — even if it’s Rs. 500. Build your habit, stay consistent, and watch your savings grow month after month.
Do you have a personal money-saving tip that works for you? Share it in the comments below — it might inspire someone else!