There are certain bills you can’t avoid – the usual elements of daily life like housing, food and transportation.

Then, there are the categories most of us end up spending money on that we don’t necessarily need to be spending money on or at least not as much. The things falling into this category usually include hygiene products, things we want to keep us healthy or things we want that just make us happy.

In this Beat the System, we’ll run through a few thing a lot of people buy, but don’t need to. For some people it might seem a little extreme, but then again there are a lot of people out there looking for small tips to help them save big in the long run.

1. Shampoo – The fancy stuff can cost you, but do you really need it? Simple solution: grab a can of baking soda for about $1. Mix one tablespoon with one cup of water and shake it up well. It won’t smell like fruity like some store bought shampoo, but it will do the trick.

2. Conditioner – Very similar process to the shampoo. Mix one tablespoon of apple cider vinegar with one cup water. Shake it up and use it just like you would normal hair conditioner.

Some studies say shampoo and condition blended at home is more healthy for you hair and just as important, $5 will get you everything you need for a few months worth of shampoo and conditioner.

3. Gym Memberships – Health clubs can range anywhere from $20 to $100 a month. There are some options to get a similar workout. Running or biking outside, always free and you’ll get the same cardio workout as doing it inside a gym. Stairs can be used to work you triceps, calves and your entire lower body. Grab a few book and load them into a backpack or fill water jugs to replace dumbbells.

The point is to think about the things you do and use every day and then think about if there are any alternatives: Do what works for you and Beat the System while you’re at it.