As a self-certified bookworm, I know how difficult it can be trying to build your dream library without spending an absolute fortune. With rising book costs and the cost of living still increasing, we want to give you all of the best tips so you can buy your favourite reads for less.
That’s why we’ve made this ultimate guide where we’ll cover everything from free and low-cost reading options to loyalty schemes and more.
How to set a book budget and shop without guilt
If you’re like me and find yourself scrolling through book-tok regularly, you might be wondering how you can fund your book-buying obsession in a healthy, more sustainable way.
That’s where budgeting comes in handy. In our article on the best budgeting apps, we recommend 5 budgeting apps that’ll help you ensure that your money is going exactly where you want it.
Using an app like this means you can track your spending and even put aside money specifically to spend on your next reads. That way, you can shop without the guilt.
The best ways to buy books on a budget
Shop secondhand and use charity shops
A great way to find affordable books is by shopping secondhand marketplaces. As long as you’re not fussed about the look or condition of the book, it’s such a simple way to ensure you’re not going over budget.
Amazon has a dedicated ‘used’ or ‘like new’ option below most books on its site. Some other good places to look include eBay, World of Books, AbeBooks, and Vinted.
Opt for an ebook
As a Kindle girly myself, I couldn’t recommend opting for an e-book more. Kindle books not only save on space but money too – with many books as little as 99p. Can’t decide whether to take the plunge? Not sure if a Kindle will work out less expensive in the long run? Luckily, we’ve got an entire article dedicated to physical books vs. digital books to help.
Join the library
Libraries aren’t just for children – if you’ve got a local library, it’s definitely worth popping in to sign up. It’s typically free to join most libraries, and once you do, you’ll have access to hundreds of books without spending a single penny.
Community bookcases
If you're wondering how to get books for free, look out for community bookcases where you can swap books in and out, completely free of charge. Not only is it a super wholesome idea, but it means you get to read books you might not have usually picked up, and when you’re done with it, you can return it. You never know what hidden gems you might come across.
Facebook groups
Take advantage of social media and check sites like Facebook for book-swap groups. It’s ideal for keeping your home decluttered, especially if you’re tight on space, and you’ll also have the chance to make new book-loving friends too.
Ask a friend
In a similar vein, if you’ve got friends or family members who love to read – or even if you’re part of a book club – ask them to borrow a book. You might find that they have books on your TBR, and you own books on theirs, so you can swap. After all, if you don’t ask, you don’t get.
How to save on books at popular bookstores
Join a reward scheme
If you’re a regular shopper at one book shop in particular, then check if they have a reward scheme – most mainstream shops do. We wrote an entire piece on everything you need to know about Waterstones Plus which offers points and rewards to put towards saving on future book purchases.
Shop budget book brands
Sometimes you can actually find the exact same books at budget book shops for a fraction of the price. If you’re wondering where to buy cheap books, The Works is a fab place to start.
The Works has been known to offer some of the best book deals on the market, including The Works £1 book sale and The Works 10 for £10 kids picture book bundle, which our money-saving experts covered.
Purchase book sets
If it’s a book series you’re looking for, then instead of purchasing each book individually, check if you can buy it as a book gift set first. In our handy piece on buying budget book gift sets, we cover why they’re such a good idea and where you can shop for them.
Use a discount code
Of course, one of the best ways you can buy books on a budget is by using a discount code. Here at MyVoucherCodes, we have an entire page with all of our best discount codes & vouchers for books, which are updated regularly to find you the best deals possible.
Final thoughts
So, whether you’re a seasoned bookworm or you’re just looking for a holiday read, it’s super important to know how you can indulge for less. Be sure to check out all of our helpful saving advice on books in our home & garden section on our blog site.
