by Mario Carini

Created on: June 15, 2009

Living a frugal lifestyle is not something most people are accustomed to. But in today's economy, learning to use and spend money wisely can mean the difference between weathering the storm or bankruptcy. It takes some experimenting to find the best way to live without severely compromising your standard of living.

While the state of today's economic climate is not harsh enough to require major lifestyle changes, there are things that can be done today to insure that life and living stays at a comfortable and manageable level.

Eat out Less Often

This is one of the first things people do to start saving money. Eating out with its tips, taxes and gratuities cuts deeply into the family budget. While eating out eliminates the need to cook at home, there is no better alternative to staying healthy but to cook your own food.

Cut Down on Entertainment

Watching movies at the theater is expensive after you factor in the popcorn, soft drinks and chocolate. A family can easily spend a great deal of money to watch a movie they can eventually rent and watch at home. Similarly, buying those DVDs, video and computer games can negatively impact the budget. You can even save on renting costs by simply taking home videos from the library.

Save on the Food Budget

Food is one item that most people buy on impulse. Everything on the supermarket shelves look good but often aren't healthy. Before you go out on a shopping trip, create a list of the most important items you need. It enforces discipline. If you have any money left over, then you can buy that tub of ice cream or whatever appeals to your heart.

Cut Back on Clothing

You need the right clothes for your daily activities, but you don't need to look like a fashion model with a wardrobe of the latest styles. Thrift and discount stores offer less expensive clothing that often looks just as good as name brand clothes.

Save on auto expenses

It doesn't take much to learn to change the oil and filter in your car. Small do-it-yourself maintenance projects around the house can save a good deal on having a professional service your every need. In today's two car family, selling that extra car is not likely to be a hardship. You save on the insurance, fuel and maintenance. And if you live close to work, you can ride a bike, take the bus or car pool all of which can save a good deal of money.

Save on Home Expenses

You are likely paying more toward heating and cooling costs than you should. Cleaning

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