Some things are cheaper, others are more expensive. For example, I pay less for phone service (no smart phone) than I did when we had a house phone and made long distance calls. We also use email for communication with out of town family, a benefit we didn't have years ago. On the other hand, cars and gas are more expensive than they were in the past. Sure, you can "downsize" your use of expensive items, or you can buy used, but at some point you have to spend -- you can't do without everything. This isn't something you can "win" 100% of the time.
How to avoid inflation?
- Shop smart. Pay attention to sales and buy only for bottom dollar. For example, canned foods are always super-cheap in the fall, so buy by the case. Fill your pantry, put cans in your coat closet and under your bed. You're sure to need canned goods, so don't wait 'til the price is higher again. Begin a price notebook so you'll recognize a real sale vs. a fake sale.
- For things like clothing, buy used.
- Make things last longer (electronics, for example -- you don't need the latest and greatest gadget).
- Learn old-fashioned skills like making your own cheese and wine, mending your own clothes. These skills aren't hard, but they're dying off.