10 Ways to Shop Smart During a Recession

Looking for simple ways to save money on a tight budget? In 397 Ways to Save Money, author Kerry K. Taylor shows that by looking in every corner of every room in your house, from the kitchen to the closet, and by considering the needs of every member of your family, from your toddler to your dog, you can find ways to save thousands of dollars in unexpected places without feeling pinched--and even have fun. Here are 10 easy ways to shop smart and save money even on a tight budget.

1. Skip brand names and buy generic. Don't believe the expensive marketing hype behind many brand name products. Marketing costs big bucks and you're paying for that cost every time you buy a brand name. Besides, brand name items are not necessarily better than the lesser-advertised alternatives. By purchasing quality generic food, clothing, cleaning supplies, kitchen supplies and toiletries you can save a huge 10% to 50% on every shopping trip.

2. Shop the bulk bin food aisle. Cut your food bill by thousands of dollars each year by buying bulk grocery items. Bulk bins are an incredible way to save on pasta, rice, dried beans, tea, spices, sweets and nut butters for up to 60% less than packaged versions. Just fill a bag with the bulk ingredients you need and see your savings add up. If you're new to buying beans in bulk then check out these 3 Easy Methods for Soaking Dried Beans and cook up some savings!

3. Make a list and check it twice. Ever come home from the supermarket without enough food for the week or forget to buy something while at the mall? It's not hard to do with all the distractions in the shops. To save you hundreds of dollars in impulse spending, go through your kitchen before hitting the market and make a shopping list. Having a list with you not only saves time but reminds you what items to purchase, what foods to buy, and steers you clear from those cute pairs of shoes. You might even save on gas by being super organized because you won't need to make a second trip! Use this free grocery shopping list to help you plan your meals, saving you even more money on costly restaurant bills.

4. Don't be shy -- ask for a discount! Asking to pay less for a product or service sounds difficult, but it's not. Just be polite and ask, "Is this the best price you can offer me?" Finding a store manager can get you amazing results immediately. Just by asking this question, I've saved 10% to 15% on area rugs, mirrors, furniture and a camera. Besides, asking for a discount is free and saving 10% in under five minutes of work is time well spent. Offering to pay cash for an item rather than using credit can often help too.