Practical Guide to Saving Money

Combine errands. Use the car only when absolutely necessary. Combine errands and trips to save on gas and increase the amount of time you have instead of running back and forth to the market.

Generic soda. Buy generic versions of your favorite sodas. The taste is pretty much the same and you save tons when you buy non-name brands.

Pack your lunch. Take your lunch to work. Make it delicious, keep it simple and do this everyday. Grab one of those generic sodas while you're at it - vending machines are expensive.

Grocery budget. Determine a budget for your grocery expenses and stick to it. Clip coupons, read fliers and shop at wholesale clubs. Put the savings that you receive into a special account for that year's Christmas gifts.

Recycle plastics. Take a clean, empty milk container and use it to make tea, lemonade and juice. You can also cut off the top part of the container to make a plant waterer. Rather than discarding old margarine containers, clean and reuse to store leftovers.

Walk or ride a bicycle. Leave the car - walk to the corner store or ride your bike. Get an aerobic workout and save money on gas.

Shop online. Make use of the internet and do your shopping online. You can buy just about anything you could ever want. Delivery times are as rapid as you are willing to pay for and you save gas, time and keep the environment clean.

Squirrel away income tax returns and rebates. Save your money rather than spending it. Compound interest adds up over time so when you receive a bonus, tax return, rebate or other windfall, keep it in a separate, interest-bearing account.

Shop thrift and consignment stores. The treasure you can find at these stores is amazing. Some of these stores are packed with designer clothes and high end merchandise. Consider second hand especially when you have young children who don't wear clothes for very long.

Plant a garden. If you have the space, plant a garden and tend to it. Fresh vegetables, herbs and fruits are good for you and this plan saves trips to the grocery store. When the harvest is bountiful, share with neighbors and friends or sell surplus to the local farmers' market for extra cash.