As gas prices rise and inflation grips the nation these money saving tips will help you get by.

1 Make a list and stick to it.  Going to the grocery store can really sap your energy and drain your wallet.  Make a list before you go and youll save time and avoid impulse purchases.  There is a reason the milk as at the back of the store.  They want you to walk through the aisles before you get what you need.  Using a list will also help you avoid impulse purchases.  If youre trying to lose weight a list will prevent you from purchasing junk food and other tempting snacks.  The moral of the story is: make a list and stick to it.

 2 Restaurants are a sure way to drain the money quickly.  The drinks, tip, and time it takes to eat out all add up.  Try packing a lunch and make food at home.  For many people cooking is a lost skill.  Try a new recipe a week and youll be eating at home more often.  If youre short on time try freezing leftovers or food before its cooked.  Your wallet will thank you for eating at home more often.

3 Shop around for big purchases.  If youre planning on going on a cruise or buying a big ticket item it would behoove you  to use a price comparison site like shopping.com or pricegrabber.  Youd be amazed at how cheap you can find things online.  If you want the best of both worlds find the cheapest price online and have a local store price match it.  That way you get the lowest price without having to wait for shipping.

4 Kill off unnecessary debt.  Pay off your credit cards starting with the highest interest cards first.  Not only will your credit score increase but youll also save a bundle on interest payments.  In addition, dont put anything new on your existing credit cards.  Instead of spending that bonus from work on a new toy put it towards your credit card debt.

5 Go used instead of the new route.  Youd be surprised at what people will sell at what prices.  Try craigslist.org and other classifieds to find new couches, computers, and cars.  Youll save a lot of money and youll be able to brag to all your friends about all the awesome deals youve found.

6 Stay off the bleeding edge of technology.  Theres a tendency to have all the coolest, newest gadgets but now-a-days the payoff isnt what it used to be.  People who waited in line for the privilege of owning an iPhone paid a 200 premium just to get ripped off six weeks later.  As technologys pace quickens buying the newest of the new wont be as long lasting as it used to be.  Buying older technology has its advantages especially on the old pocket book.

7 Enjoy the simple things.  Checking out books from the library and reading in the park is free but oh so satisfying.  Going to free museums and concerts are a great way to get out and save money.  Many new papers will have a community section that details the time and places for these events.  If thats not your thing try picking up your old hobbies and dusting them off.  Your guitar, coin collection, journal, kite, or other hobby will love the attention.

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