Smart Hacks to Save Money and Lower the Cost of Living in Canada
- Jonathan Shachar
- May 2
- 2 min read
Let’s be honest - Canada is an amazing place to live, but the cost of living here can be high. Between groceries, gas, and daily essentials, expenses add up fast. But with a few smart moves, you can stretch your dollars further and enjoy some great perks along the way.
One of the easiest (and most fun!) ways to save money in Canada is by joining loyalty programs. From grocery stores to gas stations, these programs reward you for spending on things you already need.

Why Loyalty Programs Are Essential for Newcomers
Canadian businesses love rewarding repeat customers. Joining loyalty programs lets you earn points, discounts, free items, and cashback—helping you save hundreds of dollars on everyday spending!
Top 5 Money-Saving Hacks Every Newcomer Should Know
1. Grocery Savings Hack:
Enroll in PC Optimum at stores like Loblaws, Shoppers Drug Mart, and Esso.
Earn points on groceries and essentials (10,000 points = $10 savings).
Extra tip: Plan shopping around bonus-point days advertised in flyers for maximum rewards.
2. Fuel Savings Hack:
Sign up for Petro-Points (Petro-Canada) or Journie Rewards to earn discounts and perks on fuel purchases.
Extra tip: Use a cashback credit card alongside your loyalty card to double your rewards.
3. Free Coffee & Snacks Hack:
Join Tim Hortons Rewards to collect points on coffee and snack purchases.
Extra tip: Download the Tim Hortons app for exclusive deals and birthday freebies!
4. Entertainment and Dining Hack:
Become a member of Scene+ to earn points at Cineplex, Swiss Chalet, and Expedia for movies, dining, and travel discounts.
Extra tip: Watch movies at half price every Tuesday at Cineplex theatres.
5. Online Shopping Cashback Hack:
Register with Rakuten Canada and get cashback from popular retailers like Amazon, Walmart, and Indigo.
Extra tip: Shop during seasonal sales to combine deals with cashback offers.
Bonus: Exclusive Newcomer Offers
Many Canadian loyalty programs have special newcomer welcome bonuses. Always check for new member promotions when signing up to maximize your initial savings!
Stay Organized for Maximum Rewards
Use Mobile Apps: Store all your loyalty memberships conveniently with apps like Stocard or Apple Wallet.
Stack Your Rewards: Combine store loyalty programs with a rewards credit card to maximize your savings effortlessly.
Discover Over 200 Canadian Reward Programs!
Looking for even more ways to stretch your budget and save money in Canada? Explore our comprehensive directory of over 200 reward programs in Canada, neatly organized to match your lifestyle and needs: plexi.app/reward-programs. Know What to Expect: Get Your Personalized Cost of Living Report
Want to understand how much your first year in Canada might really cost? Try our free Canada Cost Calculator. Just answer a few simple questions about your family, lifestyle, and plans—and we’ll send you a personalized report that breaks down your estimated expenses in housing, groceries, transportation, education, and more. It’s an easy way to get prepared and take control of your budget from day one.
Start Saving Today!
Being budget-smart in Canada has never been easier. Use these simple, effective hacks to save money, earn valuable rewards, and make your Canadian journey financially rewarding. Welcome to Canada — happy saving!