by Sandra Piddock

Created on: December 19, 2011   Last Updated: December 25, 2011

These days, everyone is looking to save money where they can. However, saving money does not have to mean compromising on quality if you're a smart shopper. It's possible to snag some great deals and not feel as if you're missing out. Here are some of the best ways to shop smarter in 2012.

Coupons

The latest way to shop smart is to use coupons. Rather than hunt through the newspapers and advertising leaflets, look on Internet sites such as

Vouchercodes.com and print off coupons for the items you want at the stores you shop in. Typically, discounts include 20% off your total shop when spending a qualifying amount, or 'buy one, get two free' promotions which can't be found elsewhere.

Many of these coupon sites also have blog sections where members post details of the best deals, so it's possible to pick up some great savings. Remember to check all terms and conditions before using your coupons, both with the issuing site and the accepting stores or websites.

Pay cash

You'll think more about what you're spending if you have to physically count out cash for your purchases, rather than just feeding a card into a machine. Another advantage of paying cash is that there's no risk of interest charges if you're late paying off your credit card balance.

If you pay cash for a big ticket purchase, ask for a discount. Stores do not have to pay handling charges for cash purchases, and they may be prepared to pass some of that saving to you. You have nothing to lose and possibly a considerable amount to gain, so don't be shy - ask for a discount for cash.

Buy on interest free terms

Leave the credit card at home and buy interest free. There are some good deals to be had on the high street, including deferred payment options and interest free terms. Be sure to stick to the schedule - if you're even a day or two late clearing the balance, the full amount of interest is added to the purchase price.

Another way to buy interest free is through a mail order catalogue. Be careful out there, though - prices may be higher because of the interest free facility. Check to see if you can get a better price locally or online before committing yourself. Mail order catalogues do have some great end of season offers on clothes and footwear, and you can still buy on interest free terms, so check out your favourite catalogue just before the new edition comes out.

Buy in bulk

Non-perishables and long life goods such as kitchen rolls, cleaning products and canned or dried foods often

• 1
• 2
• Next Page >>