Follow Us: Google+
 
Bankrate.com

smart spending

7 ways to stick to your holiday budget

Be an educated consumer
Next
4 of 9
Back
Be an educated consumer

"A good deal is something on your list and within your budget," says Ellie Kay, author of "The Little Book of Big Savings."

To save money, comparison shop on your computer before setting foot in a store, says Kay. Use search engines like mySimon.com or Bing.com. These are popular, reputable and safe sites that categorize items by type (electronics, books, clothing, etc.) and price. Consumers find them easy to use and thorough because they search the entire Web.

To find the best price for an item, look for coupons from the manufacturer's website or on sites devoted specifically to coupons such as CouponCabin.com, RetailMeNot.com and DealHunting.com. If you plan to order online, search for free shipping offers.

Use this same strategy with your holiday food shopping. If you're baking or cooking for a family gathering, check with CouponMom.com for what's on sale at grocery stores and drug stores near you. Get coupons from the site to use at those stores.


 

 

advertisement

Show Bankrate's community sharing policy
            Connect with us
Compare Rates
advertisement
Most Read
  1. Nick Nolte's house for sale
  2. 8 eerie ghost towns
  3. 5 best markets for home values
  4. What does a kitchen remodel entail?
  5. Don't sell a smelly house
  6. Headlight requirements by state
  7. 9 gas-only, fuel-efficient cars
  8. 8 affordable, classic cars for retirees
  9. 5 car models that lose value
  10. Top 10 states for foreclosure
advertisement
Partner Center
advertisement

Advertising Disclosure: Bankrate.com is an independent, advertising-supported comparison service. Bankrate may be compensated in exchange for featured placement of certain sponsored products and services, or your clicking on links posted on this website.