Random money saving tips

This post could be called Recycle and Save.  As I reviewed it before posting, I realized many of these ideas are "green" as well as money saving.  

BYOB:  most stores will give you a nickel for each re-usable bag you bring in.  If a penny saved is a penny earned, these nickels will add up.


Sign up for your local grocery stores frequent shopper club.  This is an easy way to get the best prices.


Stop at customer service.  There is one grocery store in my area that is famous for printing out a great coupon book or flyer full of specials but sort of "hiding it" or only posting it at the customer service desk.  It never hurts to look and/or ask.


Check the weekly ads that come in the mail.  That way you can get an idea of what is on sale this week as you make your list and plan your meals.

Clip coupons.  I'm a big fan of the Practical Saver.  Click on that link to check out my blog post on how much money I saved during my 2 week free trial.   And you can also find a discount code good for 10% off if you decide to sign up beyond your free trial.   This is the best way to save money (and time) with your coupon shopping for groceries and health & beauty items.


Eat at home more.  Skip the fast food, the dinners out and the coffee out. Do you know about the latte factor?


Buy & use a refillable water bottle, don't spend money on bottled water.


Barter.  Offer to exchange babysitting with another family rather than pay a sitter. 


Don't over pay for television and movies.  We got rid of cable and watch our favorite television shows on Netflix, Fancast or Hulu.  We also used to rent movies from Redbox for only $1, but since we got Netflix, we don't even do that any  more.  We also trade dvds with friends and family to recycle/re-use the ones we do have.


We also visit used bookstores, thrift shops and garage sales when shopping.  You just never know what you will find.  


We use craigslist and ebay as well.  Many people have stuff that they just don't use/need and you can pick it up for a fraction of the cost.  Of course, it is buyer beware as not every one describes "good condition" the same way, but you can find good deals here.

Pay off your credit cards.  For tips on how to do this, I like Financial Peace University and The ABC's of Financial Freedom. 

What are your favorite money saving tips?