1. Don't spend it. Save it. Get some sound advice and invest it. The new bmw/tv/computer you might think you need will only depreciate - and fast. Save it, and read a book (from the library, of course), take a walk. This should seem really obvious but sometimes we can't see the forest for the trees.

Saving money is not spending it. Not spending less. If you spend less you're still spending - just less. You might save at wal-mart but walmart still has your money, and you get bulk toilet paper,or shampoo, or a dvd player. You no longer have your money. They do.

2. Compare Prices. Lots of places allow you to do this. PriceGrabber.com, Price.com are a few that come to mind. The internet has changed things and it's a global market. Take advantage of it.

3. Understand the total cost. A new car might seem like a good deal, but if you're in a lease for example there's upkeep to consider. And rising gas prices and brakes, and tires and general upkeep. Is the SUV you lust over really worth it? or would a honda civic do? or the bus? or your feet?

4. Don't be afraid to ask for a better deal. Just because it says the price on the sticker, doesn't mean that's the price you have to pay. Not so. That's the suggested retail price. You're not there to be the salesman's friend. Your job is to save money. Ask for it. You'll be suprised.

5. Understand Value. Ask yourself - Do you need it, or want the item/service? There's a big difference in the two. You don't need a new SUV. You need a sandwich for lunch.

6. Buy Bulk. the initial cash outlay might be a bit more but then you're done. Buy the cheapest stuff you can live with and be done. We found a deal on 500 batteries recently. How long do you think they'd last you? A lifetime maybe?

7. Barter. Trade your services/ideas/products for a product. I once owned a sign shop and also a crappy car. I made signs for my cost, an my mechanic repaired my car for his cost. He got new signs almost daily and I got a car that ran. A match made in heaven. It doesn't have to be big tickets. Got an elderly neighbour? Shovel their snow, in exchange for home baking for example. They don't have to pay for snow removal and you don't have to eat or more important BUY crappy store-bought baked goods. The best part is you've both saved money.

8. Marry Well. If your ideas on finance don't jive you could be opening yourself to a big can of worms. I'm lucky. Better yet, stay single. This might lead to a boring existence as we're all human and enjoy the company of others, but you'd save money. It's a lot cheaper to go for a dinner and movie for one. But, single is boring. Find your balance. Find a partner with the same financial values as you. This might be the best deal you ever got.

9. Buy what's good enough. Do you really need a $100,000 car to drive to work, so you can work so you can pay for the $100,000 car? It's a vicious circle. Car companies spend lots and lots and lots to make you feel you need that new car. Maybe you don't. There's the bus, which is a greener alternative as well as walking which is the cheapest transportation available.

10. Take advantage of offers and coupons. We list lots of great deals here at knockoutprices.com Free Shipping, Coupons, Daily Deals. Whatever you do - if you have to have it, don't pay full price. Whatever you do. Save your money