Save Money in Expensive Time

The pain at the pump continues. Like everything else, gas is expensive, groceries are expensive, medical care is expensive...and...(phew)...I know there's more out there!!! Well, I'm on your side so you save money when you fill up your car or grocery cart. One this is for sure it's all about timing.

First things first, is there any way to get cheaper gas? Well, Gasbuddy.com ways buy mid-week, but not mid-day. Gas stations like to raise up their prices mid-morning or mid-afternoon so those are typically the worst times to buy gas.

What about groceries? Consumers' Checkbook says the trick is finding the cheapest store in your area. Even if it's out of the way, you'll likely save money. In some cases, there are some chains that will be at least 10-15 even 20% less expensive.

My favorite pass time...dining out. You'll find most deals on slow Mondays after the weekend rush. And this might sound strange but consider sitting at the bar. Consumer specialists say a lot of higher end restaurants are realizing the appeal of casual food so they're creating special areas inside their restaurant like a mini restaurant within a restaurant where the food is more casual and certainly cheaper.

What about big ticket items, like that flat screen t-v you've been eyeing? Believe it or not even major stores are willing to haggle these days... especially if you shop by phone. Stores really believe you will go some place else if all you have to do is hang up the phone and dial another number.

Same thing goes for hotels. Give 'em a call from the parking lot and ask for a better deal. You can even save thousands on a car.... if you know when and where to shop. Most times in car buying, the end of the month or end of a model year is the best time to catch a deal. And if at all possible, skip the sales floor. Usually, the Internet manager can off you a good price on a set of brand new wheels.

Consumer experts say the best way to get a good deal is to do your homework. Know what you're buying, what it costs at other stores, or whether it's a big seller.