Ever get to the end of the month and wonder, “Where did my money go?” It’s not always the big things that drain your wallet — it’s the small, hidden costs that quietly add up over time. Being aware of them can help you take back control.

1. Bank Fees That Bite

Many South Africans pay monthly fees just to keep a bank account open — and it doesn’t stop there. Withdrawing money at another bank’s ATM? That’s an extra charge. Sending money via cellphone banking? Another fee. What you can do: Use your own bank’s ATMs where possible. Ask about low-fee or zero-fee accounts (many banks now offer them). Keep track of balances with free app alerts instead of SMSs that cost you monthly.

2. Data Bundles That Disappear

Streaming, scrolling and sending voice notes all eat data. And if you’re not careful, your phone switches from WiFi to mobile data without warning — costing you more than you realise. What you can do: Turn off auto-updates on your phone. Set daily limits on data use. Download content (like videos or music) when connected to free WiFi — not during peak hours.

3. Impulse Buys at the Till

It’s easy to add that chocolate bar or magazine “just because” — but doing this regularly adds up. Marketers know where to put tempting items: right where you wait. What you can do: Always shop with a list and stick to it. Avoid shopping when hungry — it makes you more likely to overspend. Ask yourself: “Do I need this or just want it?”

4. Paying for What You Don’t Use

Many people sign up for things they don’t use — airtime packages, subscriptions, loyalty cards with monthly charges. What you can do: Review your monthly deductions and cancel anything you don’t need. Ask: “Is this helping my life, or just draining my account?”

Final Thought

You don’t need to be rich to take control of your money — just aware. The small changes you make today can add up to big savings tomorrow. At ThinkMoney, we’re here to help you make smarter, simpler financial decisions that work for your life.