The best way to not be in debt is to stay out of it in the first place but that is easier said than done. Use these helpful tips and tricks stay out of debt. This is a guide about staying out of debt.
We started living a frugal life because we have 7 children, and I wanted to stay home with them. We did not want to be saddled with debt. I planted a garden, raised chickens, and beef. 
I shop a lot of bent and dent stores and Amish bulk food stores. I really try not to overbuy. I use coupons and shop sales only. I have had family members make fun of me.
Now that I have 2 grandchildren who live 2 hours away, it is nice to have the money to be able to go see them. We kept our thermostat set at 62 until we could afford a wood furnace. We don't take money from the government.
Our first 3 children paid their own way to college with no government aid and no debt. One is a nurse, one a lineman, and one a mechanic. Our next son is planning on starting Tech school in the fall. They have taken many jobs and worked very hard. I thank the Lord for what we have.
By Jilly
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My way of not going too far into debt has always been the same: I don't spend more money than I have. I do use credit cards but never charge more than I have in my savings account (in case for some reason I can't pay off the charge from my regular monthly income).
Houses are not included in this plan of course. Mortgages are allowed. But not cars. Always buy used and pay cash if possible. Or at least not a huge debt.
This all comes from being old enough to remember when we didn't have credit cards. When I first went to work everything had to be paid for in cash. So I put some money in a savings account every week. Small purchases came out of the rest of my pay. When I wanted to make a larger purchase I had to wait until I had enough in my savings account.
By Pam from Plymouth, NH
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