dealista

Save Money on Appliances at any Time of Year

Linsey Knerl — Wed, 21 Apr 2010 13:00:07 +0000

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Dealista #34: How to Save Money on Appliances

This article shares tips from the newest episode of Dealista, our podcast that'll help you get more for less.

Many of you will have tax refunds coming, and that may lead to you look into buying a replacement for that old fridge or dishwasher that’s been giving you grief. Before you run out and buy the first thing you see, however, take a minute to run through these tips. They could save you a bundle!

Hit the Holidays

While most retail experts concur that September and October are the best months to buy, many can’t wait until the biggest sales of the year to replace a worn-out appliance. The next best thing is to purchase during a holiday. While the major ones can offer huge discounts (Christmas and Fourth of July, most notably), the less celebrated weekends can be a good opportunity to score a great deal, as well. Snag sale flyers for the upcoming Mother’s and Memorial Days and use you price matching skills to get a super price, wherever you shop!

Less-Than-Perfect Equals “Perfect” Pricing

Just two weeks after my cherry red frontloading washer and dryer set were delivered to my home, my husband accidentally put a large scratch in the paint of one of them. Was I upset? Not really. The pair still work like a champ, and they look great in my otherwise drab laundry room. The lesson that I took away from the experience is that things get bumped, dented, and dinged. (And usually within just a few days from purchase, if you have a rowdy household like mine.) So why not buy something that’s already a bit scuffed up and score a 10-15% discount on it?

Not all stores as forthcoming about their “scratch and dent” sales, and others shout it from the mountains (only to present their buyers with prices that were inflated to begin with). Get to know the market value for your future purchase, and request that the discount accurately reflects it. Also, if you don’t see a section for “scratch and dents” at your local retailer, inquire about it. Sometimes, they are just hiding in the back for someone to claim them!

Save Big at Big Box Stores

We’ve already discussed how warehouse stores may or may not be a great deal for you. When it comes to appliances, however, they can surprise you with some occasional bargains that compete with traditional stores. Since they don’t usually honor price matches, what you see is often what you get. Don’t forget to shop online at the club website to see about using coupon codes and getting free shipping. The combination of both could be well worth it!

Skip Rental Stores

While it may seem appealing to pay just $20 a week for that new air-conditioner, what you may not be drawn to is the ridiculous amount of interest that rent-to-own stores charge their customers. Since these types of retailers thrive on purchasers that don’t have access to more traditional lines of credit (or even cash), they can get customers in with their low weekly rates (and sometimes an extra gift), before extracting a significant amount of interest over the life of the loan. Get the full amount (interest included) before you buy, or better yet…use more traditional lines of credit if you absolutely must charge it.

Use Craigslist

Yes, I love this site for just about everything, including appliances. We don’t just recommend it for used stuff, either. In fact, many times you can find low prices on brand new appliances by being a bit savvy in your search. Dealers sometimes put their overstocks on Craiglist (look for “dealer” notations to know if you’re working with a store and not a private seller), and realtors have been known to offer brand new appliance sets taken out of homes when they don’t match the new buyer’s tastes. Be prepared to haul your own for deeper discounts.

Look for Remodels

If you’re frustrated that your favorite Walmart, Target, or Sears has been tore up in anticipation of a remodel, don’t be! It might mean that many items will soon go on deep clearance, and appliances could be on that list. Since a remodel also often means that entire product lines will be replaced, the existing models (even floor models) will have to go — soon! Check back often at your remodeled store to watch prices fall, but don’t wait too long. (And remember the rule: One retailer in an area being remodeled may mean the others in the same chain will be, too. Call to find out when you can expect this to occur, and get their early before the good deals are gone!)

Dealista is a collaboration between Wise Bread and Quick and Dirty Tips, the producer of popular podcasts such as Grammar Girl, Money Girl, Winning Investor, and Mighty Mommy.

If you enjoyed these tips you can find more in our show's archive.

This article is from Linsey Knerl of Wise Bread, an award-winning personal finance and credit card comparison website. Read more great articles from Wise Bread:

6 Ways to Save Money on Eyeglasses

Linsey Knerl — Sun, 18 Apr 2010 17:00:10 +0000

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Dealista #33: How to Save Money on Eyeglasses

This article shares tips from the newest episode of Dealista, our podcast that'll help you get more for less.

It’s National Women’s Eye Health and Safety Month, and that means time for everyone (even the guys) to replace their worn out glasses for some new ones! But before you fork out big dollars, read our tips for saving big on your eye care expenses!

Check Your Insurance

Many people are unaware if their regular medical insurance plan covers eye care. If you’re one of them, get informed! While it may not cover actual glasses or contacts, some plans do cover exams and will offer discounts to additional services (like laser surgery). Check the plan’s fine print or contact your HR rep through your workplace to find out what’s available to you.

Use That HSA or FSA

In addition to the awesome tax perks that you can get from taking advantage of these savings plans, they can be a useful way to sock away money for a much-needed replacement pair of lenses. If you’re finding yourself with extra FSA funds at the end of a tax year, this is a great way to use it up. HSA’s will also cover some additional eye care expenses (like contact lens solution). Again, it’s best to check your plan carefully to see what qualifies.

Order Online

If this is going to be your first pair of eyeglasses or contacts, you may want to stick to ordering in-clinic. For the rest of us, you may be comfortable ordering from an online discount chain like 39Dollar Glasses. I’ve used the service myself, and while the quality is nothing compared to my favorite $300 Kate Spade frames that I wear most often, it’s a great way to snag a cheap pair of “backup” frames or for getting fast replacement when the budget is extremely tight. You’ll want to have a current prescription from your eye doctor, as well as measurements for making sure you get a good fit before you order.

Take Advantage of Repair and Replacement Plans

Some clinics will offer one free replacement or repair on certain kinds of lenses, and most reputable eye doctors that I know will switch your contact lens brand for free if you have trouble wearing them. In addition, retailers like Walmart will replace kids’ lenses for up to a year from the date of purchase for free, and many big chains like Lens Crafters may adjust or repair your frames from another store — no questions asked. To get an idea of what’s available to you, just call your closest eye clinic and ask!

Read Up

There’s no better way to save money than by being an informed consumer. That’s why I like the Glassy Eyes blog, a journal about saving money on eyeglasses that includes reviews for retailers, discount codes, and clever hacks to help you from overpaying on your eye care.

Hack It

I wouldn’t recommend this for your best pair of designer frames and lenses, but as a last resort alternative to tossing your beat up frames, you might want to try Armour Etch.

Dealista is a collaboration between Wise Bread and Quick and Dirty Tips, the producer of popular podcasts such as Grammar Girl, Money Girl, Winning Investor, and Mighty Mommy.

If you enjoyed these tips you can find more in our show's archive.

This article is from Linsey Knerl of Wise Bread, an award-winning personal finance and credit card comparison website. Read more great articles from Wise Bread:

15 Awesome Storage Solutions for Under $10

Linsey Knerl — Thu, 08 Apr 2010 14:00:11 +0000

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Dealista #32: How to Create New Storage Solutions on a Budget

This article shares tips from the newest episode of Dealista, our podcast that'll help you get more for less.

Feeling the need to do some Spring Cleaning? Not sure where to stash all your stuff? These storage solutions are not only clever, but they are super affordable (many are free!). Check out our expert-recommended list for the easiest organization ever!

Those who are a bit creative will love these DIY designs for homemade storage solutions. Jamie Novak, author of the newly released book Stop Throwing Money Away, loves these first few tips:

1. Hook it. Using a piece of lattice from your local garden center (just $5) and a little paint to give it some color, you can make your own hanging storage. Just attach it to a wall or the back of a door, then use S-hooks from your hardware store to keep dog leashes, scarves, and little baskets in their place!

2. Make your own magnet board. A used cookie sheet wrapped in a fabric scrap can be secured to the wall for a quick way to organize notes, takeout menus, and more. Customize some cool buttons by gluing magnets to the backs – they’ll look adorable stuck to the board! (Total cost is less than $4.)

3. Reuse that wine box. Old wine boxes (with the insert still inside) can be procured from your local liquor store for free. Remove the insert and wrap the entire box in wrapping paper (leaving the top open). Then line the bottom with a garbage bag and some kitchen sponges (to soak up moisture). After replacing the wine box liner, you’ve got a clever way to store umbrellas the next time guests come visiting!

Not so crafty? No problem. Use these boxes as-is for a better way to store stuff:

4. Stack file boxes (or bankers boxes). Use them in any area of the house as easy storage for most everything. Just be sure to label the contents! (Thanks to Charlene Anderson of Anderson-Shea, Inc. who suggested buying a pack of 6 for under $10 on sale!)

5. According to Elizabeth D. Cooley, President of Compass Organizing, tiny tea tins are a classy way to store Q-tips, cotton balls, and band-aids in the bathroom. Use them in the kitchen for sweetener packets and matches OR reuse them as cute gift boxes.

6. Plastic shoe holders are great for everything (not just shoes). Over the back of a porch or garage door, they can hold sunscreen, gloves, and gardening tools. In a bathroom, they contain hairbrushes, styling products, and barrettes. In a kid’s room, they are perfect for Barbies, matchbox cars, and all those Pokemon cards! (A big thank you to Ellen R. D elap for this prize-winning tip!)

7. Ball jars are a hit for holding just about everything! Our own Myscha Theriault first turned us on to all the ways you can use these gems, and Stacey Platt, author of What's a Disorganized Person to Do? agrees that they are perfect for keeping bolts and nails together in the garage.

Tracy McCubbin of DClutterfly had so many tips, we couldn’t use them all! Here are our faves:

8. Soap boxes are super for keeping business cards and electronics cords under wraps. They are free and beautiful!

9. Shoe boxes are a time-tested solution for keeping lingerie in order. Use the lids, which will fit inside any dresser drawer.

10. Ziploc bags (or any other brand) are spectacular for storing computer/camera/and cell phone cords. Clearly label them to be sure you know what gets plugged in, where!

11. Bento Boxes are great for keeping jewelry organized. They can be found at Asian department stores and World Market outlets for very little.

12. Plant pots are great for keeping utensils collected on a kitchen counter. More affordable than the utensil caddies offered in stores, they can be painted to match your mood and décor!

Still need more tips? These were common solutions to everyday storage problems:

13. Check boxes are free with your check order and perfect for keeping your junk drawer tidy. (Plus, I love using them in my carry-on luggage to keep biz cards or power cords contained.)

14. When buying edible gifts (fruit, chocolate, etc.) look for containers that are reusable. Many will come in neat tins and crates that you can use year-round to keep clutter under control.

15. Ice cube trays are super for storing paper clips, tiny trinkets, and craft pieces. They can be found at dollar stores and garage sales for pennies.

Dealista is a collaboration between Wise Bread and Quick and Dirty Tips, the producer of popular podcasts such as Grammar Girl, Money Girl, Winning Investor, and Mighty Mommy.

If you enjoyed these tips you can find more in our show's archive.

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This article is from Linsey Knerl of Wise Bread, an award-winning personal finance and credit card comparison website. Read more great articles from Wise Bread:

How to Buy Used Furniture

Linsey Knerl — Fri, 26 Mar 2010 13:00:03 +0000

Dealista MP3:

Dealista #30: Buying Used Furniture

This article shares tips from the newest episode of Dealista, our podcast that'll help you get more for less.

Furniture can be an expensive purchase. With so many people listing their used items for sale, why not give it a try? But there are some things to look out for before you give up cash for that previously-owned piece of furniture.

1. Sofas or living room furniture made from pine lumber: This isn’t solid enough to support the weight of some people, and most definitely won’t survive another move.

2. Sofas with mesh support or Styrofoam peanuts instead of cushions: Need we really say more?

3. Chairs with joints that have been stapled: Look for glue and bolts to signify that a piece has been put together with care, and will last for many years to come!

4. Lamps that freak out when you plug them in: You don’t want a fire on your hands, do you?

5. Cribs: With so many recalls, it’s better to be safe than sorry!

6. Mattresses: So many things can live in there (bedbugs, odor, and more!). It’s best to skip this one.

While we love the idea of repurposing old furniture, some items aren’t meant to be used for anything other than their original purpose. Be mindful of whether pieces will be exposed to dust, heat, or moisture before you place it in your home.

Looking for the rest of our guidelines? Check out all of our Quick and Dirty tips in our most recent episode, How to Buy Used Furniture.

Dealista is a collaboration between Wise Bread and Quick and Dirty Tips, the producer of popular podcasts such as Grammar Girl, Money Girl, Winning Investor, and Mighty Mommy.

If you enjoyed these tips you can find more in our show's archive.

This article is from Linsey Knerl of Wise Bread, an award-winning personal finance and credit card comparison website. Read more great articles from Wise Bread:

Magazines for Free or Cheap

Linsey Knerl — Sun, 21 Mar 2010 17:00:06 +0000

Dealista MP3:

Dealista #29: How to Save Money on Magazines

This article shares tips from the newest episode of Dealista, our podcast that'll help you get more for less.

It’s hard to justify spending cover price for magazines — ever. That’s why we recommend that you don’t. If you’d still like to read your favorite issues (and borrowing them from the library is something that doesn’t appeal to you), then go ahead and subscribe. Just follow our tips to be sure you get all your subscriptions for far less than newsstand prices.

How to Get Magazines for Free

The ultimate solution is to pay nothing for your magazines. No trial subscriptions, no credit-card needed, no money ever. This is how I currently get about half of my best magazines. The key is to know where to look, and to expect that you won’t always find a free offer when you really need it (If you’re set to run out of your favorite subscription, you most likely won’t be getting a freebie in time to keep it coming.) If you like a bit of unpredictability, or would like to try some new genres of magazines, then freebies is the way to go.

In addition to checking out our Daily Deals for freebies, I suggest visiting Deal Seeking Mom, ConsumerQueen, or Money Saving Mom, and looking for their magazine deals. They’ll most likely direct you to some of the major free fulfillment sites, including:

RewardsGold.com — You can’t sign up for a freebie through this site without a direct link or invitation (registration isn’t open to everyone). But once you’ve found an offer on a freebie board, you very likely to get the magazine you sign up for. You’ll have to answer a few questions on shopping preferences (what kind of perfume you use, for example), and provide your mailing info. Once you’ve done this, the mags are almost certain to come. I’ve gotten TV Guide, Newsweek, Woman's Day, Parents, and Ladies Home Journal through this site with no money out of pocket.

Mercury Magazines — Another company mentioned frequently on freebies and deals sites, these go very quickly! Answer questions about your line of work (putting down homemaker should still get you in), and provide your mailing info to be eligible. Visiting the home page may get you various digital offers at any time, but the best magazines (like the recent Fitness offering) are found through exclusive links only.

ValueMags — This site is another one that freebie boards mention frequently. Check out their offer main page to see if any good digital magazines are being offered — while you wait for good print magazines to pop up!

How to Get the best Magazine Deals Online

Sometimes you’ll still need to cough up some cash to get the magazines you REALLY want. That’s OK, as long as you go through the publisher as the last resort and never agree to pay full price. Here are my favorite discount dealers.

Amazon.com — Offering just about every magazine available, it often has great $5 and $10 subscription deals. Don’t forget, you can always add magazine subscriptions to any existing merchandise order to total $25 — and score free shipping!

Best Deal Magazines — I’ve used this service many times. Most of their magazines are marked down into “buckets” of $4.69, $5.95, and under $10. They also offer gift cards, which is perfect for giving someone a magazine gift, when you’re not quite sure if they’re more Maxim or Martha Stewart Living.

Magazine Price Search — This useful search tool allows you to type in the name of any magazine for a price comparison across several magazine sites. (Hint: This is especially useful if you are looking for a specialty magazine that is not offered on very many sites.) It will also tell you which sites DON’T carry the title.

How to Negotiate Your Existing Magazine Subscription

One of the best ways to save on magazines, especially those you already subscribe to, is to negotiation pricing from the distributor directly. Getting those renewal calls can be annoying, or you can turn them into an opportunity to talk them down on price. Remember, they want your business!

Your wiggle room will vary by company, and some will want to lock you into a several-year deal, but usually you can ask for up to 50% off the asking price for a 2-3 year renewal. Perfect for those who know that they will definitely want 48 more issues of Car and Driver and don’t want to pay full price.

Disclosure: This post contains an affiliate link to Amazon.com

Dealista is a collaboration between Wise Bread and Quick and Dirty Tips, the producer of popular podcasts such as Grammar Girl, Money Girl, Winning Investor, and Mighty Mommy.

If you enjoyed these tips you can find more in our show's archive.

This article is from Linsey Knerl of Wise Bread, an award-winning personal finance and credit card comparison website. Read more great articles from Wise Bread:

6 Slick Tools to Save Money on Car Repairs

Linsey Knerl — Wed, 10 Mar 2010 14:00:01 +0000

Dealista MP3:

Dealista #28: How to Save Money on Car Repairs

This article shares tips from the newest episode of Dealista, our podcast that'll help you get more for less.

It’s happened to all of us — a car repair we didn’t budget for, and that nearly left us cash-strapped or without transportation. It really doesn’t have to be this way! These 6 tools are reliable and affordable, designed to help get car maintenance and repair costs under control and well under budget.

1. CarMD Diagnostic Tool

CarMD is not the exact replica of the code readers used in fancier repair shops, but it can diagnose most any common car problem. Simply connect the $100 device to your car’s connectors (instructions are included) and get data to help you know what’s really going on with your car. You don’t have to wait for an issue to arise before getting your money’s worth out of this tool, however. It’s also great for pre-trip inspections and making sure that your car is smog compliant! (You might also find it useful to get a read out on a car you haven’t bought yet — before you drive it off the lot.)

2. Local Auto Supply Store

Thought they were only good for purchasing extra wiper blades and quarts of oil? Think again! There are many complimentary services available at most major car part suppliers (O’Reilly’s, Autozone, Advanced Auto, Pep Boys, etc.) that can help you out for little to nothing. Common offerings include starter checks, alternator checks, code reading, battery testing/charging, and tire checks. While it won’t prevent you from having to go to the shop for a major repair, I’ve used my local shop to help me decide whether I can go a few more miles on an already distressed battery, and they even loan out tools — the really expensive ones — for a refundable fee charged to your credit card. You can save big money at these places!

3. RepairPal

I absolutely love RepairPal! When I’m not using the web-based interface from home to get an accurate quote on what it will cost me to have a timing chain replaced, for example, I can use the accompanying smart phone app to get detailed info about what a repair should cost — before I head into the shop. It includes info on how much your repair will be parts vs. labor, and even gives you details of the common cost to perform maintenance by zip. If you’re stuck on the road with a broken down vehicle, you can use the RepairPal app to contact a local repair shop directly, and armed with all the information about your car and specific repair, you can be sure you won’t be taken at the mechanic’s shop.

4. DriverSide

DriverSide is another fantastic web resource, a community of drivers who care about their cars (but not in a weird way). You simply register your make and model to get automatic updates on recalls, service bulletins, and other news about your vehicle. You can ask questions of mechanics and even see how much parts will cost for your precious ride. It’s the perfect all-in-one solution to car maintenance, and it’s entirely free.

5. AllDataDIY

Do you feel ambitious? Like working on your own vehicle? If you’re up to the challenge of performing your own car repairs, then AllDataDIY may be the perfect solution for you. With just a minimal annual subscription fee, you can have access to all the data that a mechanic would need to perform all kinds of repairs and maintenance tasks for your particular vehicle. Loaded with diagrams, charts, parts detail, and recall info, you could do just about any job on your own — provided you have the patience, skills, and right tools. We’ve used our subscription numerous times to do everything from simple rotor replacement to a major engine overhaul. (Homes with more than one vehicle may get a discount for buying additional subscriptions after the first.)

6. Craigslist

Perhaps the most useful of all the tools, Craigslist has helped us to connect to all the things we just couldn’t fit into our budget, otherwise. Whether we’ve found quality used tires, a part-time moonlighting mechanic, or a tailgate for our pickup, we’ve been able to hunt down and purchase for far less from Craigslist. With so many qualified professionals and parts dealers struggling in this economy, we’ve found our odds of getting a competitive price for parts and labor to be much higher via the site, and it’s always nice to meet new people with similar interests in DIY car care. If you haven’t considered Craigslist for your parts or labor needs, add it to your resource list!

Dealista is a collaboration between Wise Bread and Quick and Dirty Tips, the producer of popular podcasts such as Grammar Girl, Money Girl, Winning Investor, and Mighty Mommy.

If you enjoyed these tips you can find more in our show's archive.

This article is from Linsey Knerl of Wise Bread, an award-winning personal finance and credit card comparison website. Read more great articles from Wise Bread:

16 Best Mobile Shopping Apps For Your Phone

Lynn Truong — Wed, 03 Mar 2010 15:00:03 +0000

Dealista MP3:

Best Mobile Shopping Apps

This article shares tips from the newest episode of Dealista, our podcast that'll help you get more for less.

Bargain hunting is easier than ever with these great shopping apps for your smart phone. You no longer have to run from store to store comparing prices, or wonder if the hot deal you're looking at might not be as hot as the one offered across the street. Use these popular shopping apps to make sure you're walking out the store with the very best deal.

ShopSavvy: Scan barcodes with your phone and compare prices across 20,000 retailers. It also provides reviews. Available free for iPhone and Android.

Shop Nearby: Shop every store with every product on the web from your iPhone. Find out which stores near you carry the products you're looking for and compare prices. Available free for iPhone or mobile browserK.

RedLaser: Similar to ShopSavvy, you can scan bar coded items and compare prices from GoogleProducts and TheFind database. Available for iPhone at $1.99.

Amazon: Search and compare prices from local retailers for over a million products sold on Amazon.com. Available free for iPhone, Blackberry, and Android.

Save Benjis: Search online vendors for virtually any product to compare prices. This app also provides product descriptions and reviews. Available free for iPhone.

Compare Me: If you've got two items of varying volume and need to figure out which is the better deal, CompareMe will tell you. Available for iPhone for $1.99.

Coupon Sherpa: Use this app to find coupons while on the go. Just show the coupon on your phone and it'll scan at the register! Available free for iPhone.

MobiQpons: This cool app will show you coupons available for stores, restaurants, and services near you. Available free for iPhone, Android, and Blackberry.

SnapTell: Take a photo of the cover of a CD, DVD, book, or video game and the app will identify the product and find ratings and pricing. Available free for iPhone and Android.

Compare Everywhere: Scan barcodes to get product prices and reviews. It can even use Android's GPS to tell you the location and directions to the nearest store that stocks the item. Available free for Android.

Buzzillions: Get product reviews on the go. Make sure the plasma TV you're eyeing at the store has user approval. Get all the reviews and ratings you need at your fingertips. Available free for iPhone.

GoodGuide: Scan a barcode to see if a product is safe, healthy, and green. See detailed ratings for health, environmental and social responsibility. Available free for iPhone.

Point Inside: Ever get lost while in a shopping mall, and can't even find the directory for a map? Take out your trusty phone and pull up the mall directory directly. Available free for iPhone.

Slifter: Get local product search, prices, images, maps, and a personalized shopping list with this neat app. Available free for iPhone and Blackberry.

Holiday Gift Guide: Browse through over a thousand items that are listed on popular holiday gift lists, and find them locally at nearby or online stores. Available free for iPhone.

Be Nice to Bunnies: Developed by PETA, you can use this app to check if a product was made cruelty-free. Available for iPhone for $1.99.

Quick and Dirty Tips for Using Shopping Apps to Get the Best Deal

You're armed with these apps and you're ready to hunt down the best bargains. Don't forget these tips while you're at the store.

Resist the temptation to buy something you know isn't the best price simply because you want it now. Sometimes it makes sense to pay more for convenience, but not when you're just impatient.
If one of your nifty apps do tell you a store nearby has the item for less, show it to the store manager. You might be able to get a price match then and there, rather than having to make a trip to another place.
Check out reviews and user ratings. Learn from the mistakes of those who bought before you.

Dealista is a collaboration between Wise Bread and Quick and Dirty Tips, the producer of popular podcasts such as Grammar Girl, Money Girl, Winning Investor, and Mighty Mommy.

If you enjoyed these tips you can find more in our show's archive.

This article is from Lynn Truong of Wise Bread, an award-winning personal finance and credit card comparison website. Read more great articles from Wise Bread:

The 4 Myths of Buying in Bulk Dispelled

Linsey Knerl — Tue, 23 Feb 2010 17:01:29 +0000

Dealista MP3:

Dealista #26: What You Need to Know About Buying in Bulk

This article shares tips from the newest episode of Dealista, our podcast that'll help you get more for less.

Ask most people for a common way to save money on groceries and household goods, and they may come back with this answer: Buy in bulk. While it can be an amazingly simple way to potentially save some bucks, it can also be a buying trap. Here are the 4 misconceptions we typically attribute to bulk buying, and the truth for each.

Myth #1: Buying a larger package usually means that the cost per unit (ounce, pound, etc) is lower.

Truth: It's one of the many reasons people rush to buy bulk, but it isn’t always so. Just because a bottle of vitamins has 3 times the number of pills in it, it won’t automatically mean that each of them are cheaper than if you had bought the small bottle. Even when the price per unit is clearly marked on store signage or the store shelf, you may need to do some careful sleuthing to determine if it’s a good deal. Price books are a great way to make sure that you’re always familiar with what a “good” price is for any item you buy regularly, and can be made simply from a lined notebook. (Sometimes the best prices per unit happen with the smallest packages!)

Myth #2: Bulk-buying clubs don’t allow non-members to shop with a friend who is a member.

Truth: Representatives from major buying clubs have themselves proven this to be untrue, with statements that bringing a friend is allowed. In fact, most warehouse stores want you to bring a friend in at least once to sample the experience of shopping these kinds of stores. Yes, they’re hoping that the allure will lead your friend to buy their own membership (and sometimes this makes sense), but if you are content to shop in tandem with a relative or buddy, don’t feel like you’re breaking the law. After all, it’s twice the sales for the store!

Myth #3: Bulk-buying clubs can only be shopped in-store.

Truth: Most, if not all, major warehouse clubs can be shopped online (although fresh produce and groceries may not be available via online ordering). This, combined with the addition of several web-only items and the perk of free shipping for some larger items (like furniture, exercise equipment, and power tools), makes it an attractive way to buy your wares without ever leaving your home.

Myth #4: You can’t find good bulk buys outside of a warehouse club.

Truth: Remember our good friend, Target? They are just one of the many national retail outlets gearing up to offer our warehouse bulk stores some friendly competition. With special aisles dedicated to providing a bulk-buying experience to everyday shoppers, they have much to offer. Examples include 3-packs of boxed cereal, enormous boxes of diapers, and light bulbs by the 20’s! In addition to being competitively priced to bulk clubs, you can save big time by using manufacturer’s coupons (something the big box stores usually won’t let you do) and snagging items on clearance.

Still hoping to use bulk buying as a way to stretch that grocery budget? That’s OK! Be sure to keep these additional tips in mind when roaming the large concrete aisles:

Use it or lose it. Remember that jumbo container of hummus you had to buy the last time you went shopping at a bulk club? If you don’t, chances are good that it’s rotting in the back of your fridge — and wasting you money. Be sure that you’re committed to making every last penny of bulk savings work to your advantage, and use up perishables in a timely manner. (You may want to read up on how even dry goods can go bad if not stored correctly.)
Out of cart, out of belly. Ask anyone who buys yummies from a warehouse store if they are saving money, and they’ll probably tell you that the giant box of fruit snacks they bought were far cheaper per ounce than buying from a retail store. They may also admit that they were eaten just as quickly as the small box they usually buy. If you’re inclined to tear through giant cases of gourmet pecans or, in my case, those jumbo jars of refrigerator pickles, within days after purchase, look to scale back your buying (and your calorie consumption) with a package from your grocerer’s aisle, instead.
Bring a list. There’s something truly dangerous about a store that sells baby formula, frozen mini eggrolls, and firepits within 25 feet of one another. If you’re destined to stroll the aisles that you won’t be shopping from, bring a list, and stick to it! Keep in mind that warehouse club offerings may change from month to month, and the joint supplement you’re used to buying may not be offered the next time you shop. Bring your list, shop the clubs first, then buy whatever is not available or affordable at your local store. If you put all your eggs into the warehouse basket, you’ll end up with quite the eclectic (and expensive) cart of stuff.

Dealista is a collaboration between Wise Bread and Quick and Dirty Tips, the producer of popular podcasts such as Grammar Girl, Money Girl, Winning Investor, and Mighty Mommy.

If you enjoyed these tips you can find more in our show's archive.

This article is from Linsey Knerl of Wise Bread, an award-winning personal finance and credit card comparison website. Read more great articles from Wise Bread:

How to Save Big Money on Next Year's Lawn and Garden

Linsey Knerl — Thu, 18 Feb 2010 17:00:03 +0000

Dealista MP3:

Dealista #25: Save Big on Next Year's Garden

This article shares tips from the newest episode of Dealista, our podcast that'll help you get more for less.

Brrr! It’s still cold outside, but that doesn’t mean you can’t turn your mind to warmer thoughts and begin planning out how you’ll save on next year’s lawn and garden! The time to start is right now. Get the tips you need to save some green come spring time.

Use Seeds

Yes, we know it takes a bit more time, patience, and sometimes, even special equipment. The fact remains, however, that the cost of a tomato plant from seed (usually pennies) is far cheaper than those beautiful, giant plants you can get at the nursery (usually $2-6!). While time is money, the great thing about growing from seed is that the time invested can pay off big time come planting season. Consider it if your budget is tight, or you want to have more control over the conditions your little plants are raised in.

Swap ‘Em

Last year, I bought several heirloom seed packets (watermelons, tomatoes, etc), but had room to plant just a few seeds per packets. What did I do with the other 20 per packet? I traded with my mom. While seeds can be stored in cool and dry conditions for a year or two beyond the season you purchase them in (this can vary per species), why not spice up your garden with a seed swap? Have friends bring all their seed packets and trade out a few per packet for a free way to expand your gardening options. (Have the directions for each seed packet photocopied onto a sheet of paper for future reference.)

Buy Little Plants

Sometimes, even our best intentions will leave you seedless (or your dog may knock over all your tiny seedlings!). In the case of springtime approaching without having started anything, buying a plant is an OK alternative. Just go small. Those beautiful, arm-length plants with fruit already starting will cost you! If you can find small-rooted 4-packs that are less than 6 inches tall, you’ll usually get a greater discount per plant.

Go Garage!

Garage sales and flea markets are the perfect place to stock up on supplies for growing. The best finds are usually clay pots, which can cost a pretty penny new from the store. Remember that some of the best finds may not look the greatest at the sale, so be prepared to dig through broken and dirty pots and accessories to get to the good stuff. It’s worth it!

Set Up Your Subscriptions

Subscribing to several mail-order catalogs is a great way to grow your garden. Not only can you learn a lot about planting and harvesting techniques, but you can also find out about new varieties you may not have heard of before. When you sign up, you’ll also get access to exclusive discounts and shipping offers. It’s the perfect way to save a bundle on some exotic plants or organic varieties. (Those who don’t want the paper waste may go ahead and search out the same companies online — but many of the colorful photos and charts may not be accessible this way.)

There are a few other tips you will want to know before you plan out that dream garden:

Get the dirt on your supplier. To know if you’re working with a reputable company before you order, check out The Garden Watchdog, which is a free directory of over 7,000 mail-order companies, with ratings and comments from customers to help you get an unbiased review.
Go Green! Organic and heirloom varieties are not only super-tasty, but they are great for reintroducing long-forgotten species of plants back into our environment. Consider getting these kinds of plants from a special supplier. A good list to start with is located at Green Promise.
Hit the dollar store. Seriously. I got most of my potting soil, accessories, and even a few seed packets from my local store, for far less than what I would have gotten from a gardening retailer. (Many of the brands are exactly the same.) You’ll also want to check out retailers like Walmart, Target, and Home Depot after the summer season, to see what clearance items you can buy for next year!
Get online codes. RetailMeNot.com continues to offer codes for big suppliers like Johnny Seeds and Spring Hill Nurseries. Try Googling your favorite seed company to see what codes may be available for your next phone or online order. (We’ve seen them as generous as 50% off an order, or free shipping plus gifts!)

How does your frugal garden grow?

Dealista is a collaboration between Wise Bread and Quick and Dirty Tips, the producer of popular podcasts such as Grammar Girl, Money Girl, Winning Investor, and Mighty Mommy.

If you enjoyed these tips you can find more in our show's archive.

This article is from Linsey Knerl of Wise Bread, an award-winning personal finance and credit card comparison website. Read more great articles from Wise Bread:

6 Tips for Saving Big Money on Office Supplies

Linsey Knerl — Wed, 10 Feb 2010 15:00:11 +0000

Dealista MP3:

Dealista #24: How to Save Money on Office Supplies

This article shares tips from the newest episode of Dealista, our podcast that'll help you get more for less.

Whether you’re a small biz owner or just a super-equipped bill payer, chances are good that you’ll spend at least $50 in office supplies in a typical year. For every dollar above that amount, there is an even better opportunity to save — big — by following a few simple tips.

1. Get Loyal

Repeat business at your favorite office supply chain isn’t just good for their bottom line, it’s great for yours, too! Most major national retailers offer a discount by signing up for their rewards programs, and there is no cost to join. Here are the details on the big three.

Office Max has two separate programs: one for small businesses (which anyone can sign up for) and one for teachers. Their program (called the Max Perks program) will give you a $25 gift card for every $500 in purchases made during a calendar year in the business program, and a $10 reward for every $75 earned annually in the teacher program. This is in addition to some of their more rewarding promotions that they offer throughout the year through their bonus Max Perks — which give you something similar to a rebate on popular ad items. Rewards are paid out quarterly, and come in the form of a gift card.

Office Depot offers 10% back on ink, toner, paper, and Copy & Print Depot purchases, plus 1% back on almost everything else. (This is in addition to the $3 you can get back for every ink or toner cartridge you recycle at a limit of 5 per day.) Get your rewards in the form of an Office Depot gift card, after you reach $10 in rewards each quarter.

Staples has its own loyalty program, called Staples Rewards. They will give the exact rewards as Office Depot on the same services. (Their limit for recycled ink cartridges is 10 per month, however.) Rewards are paid quarterly in the form of a gift card.

2. Score Free Software

Forget the pricey $30+ price tag that comes with typical software applications. With all the freeware, shareware, and open source options available, it’s possible to bet by with no-cost solutions for most of your software needs. Two stops on my quest for freebies include CNET’s download site (which regularly gives you virus and spyware protection alternatives, as well as thorough peer reviews of every download) and Giveaway of the day (which features just one free download of utilities for screen savers, media editing solutions, and fire sharing helpers). If you're like me, you can skip most of the big name (Microsoft) offerings in word processing, spreadsheet, and database programs and just go with free open source options, like OpenOffice.

3. Learn to use Freebates

Checking the weekly flyer from the big three office supply stores mentioned above, you’ll see right away that they offer many common items for free — after rebate. While you will have to wait awhile to see your money returned (and if it’s part of the loyalty program, you will only see a gift card, not a check), it’s a great way to pay nothing more than tax and shipping on staples like printer paper, envelopes, and Sharpies! Most companies don’t require you to do anything extra when you purchase (unlike typical rebates which require filling out forms and sending in receipts). Just make sure you use your loyalty card and keep those receipts!

4. Set Your Printer Settings to “Savings”

If you’re printing out emails, notes, or other items that only you’ll see, there’s no need to use color ink or high-picture quality to do so. Set your printer to fast-draft or black ink only, and save big on the cost of your ink supplies. Better yet, look at installing an Ecofont into your word processing program. This customized font has tiny holes in each letter, letting you get by with even less ink than before!

5. Buy Ink Off-brand

Perhaps one of the most common ways people try to save money in the office, buying remanufactured or refilled ink cartridges offer savings of up to 50% over the “brand name” buy. Some even buy the ink to refill their own cartridges.

We applaud your penny-pinching ways but do want to make a few suggestions for getting the biggest bang for your buck:

Know your printer’s warranty. If you have a new printer, you may want to consider letting it expire before you switch over to ink alternatives. Using anything but the manufacturer’s authentic ink cartridges can void your remaining warranty, making repair or replacement your problem to deal with.
Know your cartridge. Get a good look at your “official” printer cartridge, snap a photo with your digital camera, and become familiar with the numbers printed on it. Often times, customers of “off brand” ink providers have reported getting an ink cartridge that didn’t quite fit. Being aware of what a good fit looks like will help you in getting issues resolved.
Know your price. Depending on your printer’s make and model the off-brand ink may be just as expensive as the brand name (or only a few pennies cheaper.) Factor in shipping, taxes, or voiding your warranty, and you may be wise to stick to your HP, Canon, or Lexmark offerings.

6. Repurpose

Ever notice how expensive those little bubble mailers have become? What’s stopping you from reusing the ones you get in the mail for items you ship out? Not only is reusing materials an affordable way to get through the month, but it’s very eco-friendly. (Afraid of looking second rate by using anything less than a crisp, new envelope? Most office supply stores offer “We proudly use recycled materials” stickers that can be placed on your outgoing packages.) Brainstorm ways you can reuse packing materials, shredded non-sensitive documents, and those Amazon boxes. There’s money in those materials!!

Dealista is a collaboration between Wise Bread and Quick and Dirty Tips, the producer of popular podcasts such as Grammar Girl, Money Girl, Winning Investor, and Mighty Mommy.

If you enjoyed these tips you can find more in our show's archive.

This article is from Linsey Knerl of Wise Bread, an award-winning personal finance and credit card comparison website. Read more great articles from Wise Bread:

17 More Places to Buy, Sell, and Trade Books

Lynn Truong — Tue, 02 Feb 2010 17:00:02 +0000

Dealista MP3:

Dealista #23: Books for less

This article shares tips from the newest episode of Dealista, our podcast that'll help you get more for less.

A few weeks ago, Sasha wrote a great article about where to find books for less. The post generated so much discussion and suggestions I had to dig into it some more. Here are 17 more places to buy, sell, or trade books.

Trade

Out with the old, in with the new. Swap books with other bookworms online.

PaperBack Swap lets you trade your books with others online. Post the books you are willing to swap. Credits for sending books to members who request them. Then use your credits to buy books from other members. All you pay is the postage to send your books to members. With over 3,000 members and 4 millions books, you're sure to make a suitable trade.

BookMooch also uses a trade-for-points system. Get points when you send a book requested by another member. Use those points to request books for yourself. Give books away. Get books you want. It's that simple.

Swaptree allows you to trade all sorts of things, like books, music, movies, and games. The best part is they match your trades for you. Their super smart algorithm instantly shows you thousands of items you could receive in trade for any item.

Bookins is another full-service swap site that arranges the swapping for you. They arrange the trade. Get points for your trade-in and request your trade-out. You don't need to deal directly with other traders.

Novel Action allows you to trade without having to wait for someone to select your book. Select any books you want and send them an equal number of your books in exchange. Just pay the flat rate shipping and your exchanges are shipped to you once your books are received.

Buy

Don't have any books you're willing to part with? Check out these sites to buy new, used, or rare, for less!

Alibris offers a large selection (100 million titles) of used, new, out-of-print, and hard-to-find books from their large warehouse or in their network of indie booksellers.

AbeBooks connects thousands of professional booksellers that offer rare, new, and used books.

A1Books partners with the top ten major wholesalers and distributors to offer books, media, games, and electronics.

Overstock is better known for their rock bottom prices on clothing and home accessories, but they also has a large selection of books on sale.

Amazon usually has a good discount on all their books, but their marketplace lets any vendor to compete and offer the same book, used or new. Look for the "More Buying Choices" link to see available offers for any given book.

eBay is always a good stopping place when bargain hunting. Don't forget that oftentimes sellers may want to unload an entire collection of books. Make sure to drop by and do a search for your favorite authors and genres to see if there are any bulk offerings.

HamiltonBook offers new books at discounted rates. Most books are closeouts or overstocks, but there are also current titles at special prices.

BookFinder lets you compare prices across many sites for any particular book. Enter the title or ISBN number of the book you're looking for and get a list of all available sellers across various vendors and sites.

Sell

Want to just get some cash for your books? Besides listing them on Amazon and eBay, these are great places to sell your books, too!

CKY Books offers instant quotes on your books. Enter the ISBN number and get offers right away. Get paid with PayPal or check and pay zero in shipping costs.

Cash4Books also offers free shipping and fast payment.

Blue Rectangle will buy your books as well as DVDs. They also have a ton of book reviews by their users.

BookScouter tells you which site will give you the very best price for your book!

Dealista is a collaboration between Wise Bread and Quick and Dirty Tips, the producer of popular podcasts such as Grammar Girl, Money Girl, Winning Investor, and Mighty Mommy.

If you enjoyed these tips you can find more in our show's archive.

Like this article? Pin it!

This article is from Lynn Truong of Wise Bread, an award-winning personal finance and credit card comparison website. Read more great articles from Wise Bread:

How to Find Really Free Freebies

Linsey Knerl — Thu, 21 Jan 2010 18:00:02 +0000

Dealista MP3:

Dealista #21: Freebies

This article shares tips from the newest episode of Dealista, our podcast that'll help you get more for less.

Everybody loves free stuff, provided it’s actually at no cost to you. Finding it can be a challenge, however. We hook you up with a few great resources and some trustworthy tips for getting even more of the freebies you love!

What’s a Freebie?

In a nutshell, it’s something you get for nothing — with the exception of your time or energy. Some folks don’t want to take even a minute to try to get something free (their time is just too valuable). For the majority of us, however, as long as the value of the free item is well above what we would get paid to work for our time invested — it’s a great deal!

Freebies can be anything from a small, trial-sized product (like shampoo or medicine) to a full-sized item that you’d buy from a store (software or clothing, for instance). Most often provided as a way to promote a business offering, they can sometimes be adorned with the logos of companies. A true freebie, however, will cost you no money out of pocket and won’t ask for your personal financial information.

Where Can You Find Freebies?

Since I spend hours every week looking for freebies, I’ve come to learn that many websites feature the same offers. They share and they swipe, but a handful of sites is all you really need to find the bulk majority of the good ones. Here are the ones that I use daily for my own personal freebie needs.

Wise Bread’s Daily Deals — Hey! Of course, I love this one. With 3-4 good freebies listed each Monday-Friday, it’s a great stop to make every morning to keep your mailbox flowing with the good stuff. (You can even get a little shopping done, if you’re so inclined.)

Common Sense with Money — Not only is Mercedes (the blogger of the site) a great freebie-finder, but she does an excellent job of providing information that will help you determine if a freebie is right for you. Her daily finds include free stuff after purchase and a good variety of samples that can be gotten just by filling out forms. I check this site every morning.

DealNews — Known for bargains on technology and gadgets, DealNews isn’t the first place people think of for freebies. Scroll down the home page a bit towards the middle, however, and you’ll find a nice assortment of free photo print offers, iphone application downloads, and restaurant freebies. Rated for “hotness,” each offer lets you know if the community at large finds it to be valuable, as well. (DealNews is also pretty diligent about taking down offers as they expire or run out of supply.)

Walmart.com — This mega retailer has more going on than just shopping opportunities. By scanning the left-hand side of the home page, you will see a link to “In Stores Now.” Click it, and it will take you a special promotions page for in-store and free sample offers. The free sample offers require no more than your basic information and are a great way to try new products and stock up your cabinet with goodies. Recent offers include diapers, heartburn medication, and shampoo.

How to Tell the Good from the Bad

Some freebies are legit, and others are just a scam. How can you discern between them? Here are a few tips I’ve picked up over the years.

Check the privacy policy — Most reputable sites will include privacy or terms of usage agreements on their site (check the bottom of the page or the fine print at the end of the registration form for details). If you don’t see this, you may not be dealing with a trustworthy website. Understand how your information may be used to contact you about future offers, and look to see if there is a way to opt-out of marketing communications before you give out your info.

Stay way from shady subdomains — It’s easy to see that an offer housed at www.tylenol.com is being handled by Tylenol itself, but sometimes other companies will fulfill offers on behalf of larger corporations. Familiarize yourself with how web addresses work, and see if it’s possible to access the home page from any offer you may have clicked on. If a link appears to be unsecured or from a website that doesn’t look reputable, walk away without your freebie.

Avoid additional offers — Many of the freebies that I encounter from even trustworthy sites are no more than money-making or affiliate schemes. If you are required to sign up for offers or start free-trial offers in exchange for your free items, the freebie may not be for you. (Usually, the freebie offerer gets a certain amount of money for each offer you complete. They end up making much more money off of you than you’ll ever get back for the freebie — if they send the freebie to you, at all.) Go ahead and let someone else make them money. You don’t need these kinds of strings-attached offers.

What to do with freebies? Some may think of them as a waste of time or a way to clutter up your medicine cabinet. I’ve known many well-meaning and successful freebie hunters who have helped to supplement their pantry or first aid kit with the fruits of their labor, however. You may also consider using your freebie hobby as a way to contribute much-needed supplies to homeless shelters and pet charities. They’d gladly take your unwanted freebies!

Dealista is a collaboration between Wise Bread and Quick and Dirty Tips, the producer of popular podcasts such as Grammar Girl, Money Girl, Winning Investor, and Mighty Mommy.

If you enjoyed these tips you can find more in our show's archive.

This article is from Linsey Knerl of Wise Bread, an award-winning personal finance and credit card comparison website. Read more great articles from Wise Bread:

The Best Places to Get Coupons Online

Linsey Knerl — Mon, 11 Jan 2010 22:38:58 +0000

Dealista MP3:

Dealista #20: Best Coupon Sites

This article shares tips from the newest episode of Dealista, our podcast that'll help you get more for less.

You could sit and wait every week for your Sunday paper to shower you with coupons for your next money-saving shopping trip…or, you could go out there and get them yourself. Online! We check out some of the best sites for getting both printable and traditional coupons via the web.

Coupons — Just plug in your zip code and see what offers are available to you! In addition to getting printable coupons for cents (and dollars) off cereal, coffee, diapers and more, you can see what restaurants are offering deals in your area. Another nifty feature? Skip the printing and just upload the coupons to your store chain savings card (like Kroger, for example). Take your card with you when you check out and let the cashier scan your card. No need to stuff coupons in your purse or wallet!

RedPlum — Owned by Valassis, the same people that put coupons in your Sunday paper, this site offers printable coupons, articles, freebies, and giveaways. Get even more savings by purchasing a Sunday paper and printing the maximum number of coupons from the website!

Target — This retailer lets you double-dip by taking typical manufacturer’s coupons and special Target store coupons that you can print right from their website! Available for items that wouldn’t normally give you printable coupons from your paper (like broccoli and store brand juice), these can be combined with manufacturer’s coupons and weekly sales or clearance discounts for the most savings.

Smart Source — Another major company that offers paper coupon inserts, Smart Source has taken its gig online! Print higher valued coupons (like $1.00 off or more) and special purchase coupons (savings on new release DVD’s, for example) before they run out.

Valpak — Remember when you used to get that little Valpak envelope in the mail? Another player in the online printable game, this company has become super savvy by giving you the best offers by your location. They still give you the chance to look for savings on plumbing, car washes, and maid service, but by clicking on the “grocery” tab, you can skip all the service offerings and get straight to the savings most likely to be on your shopping list.

Facebook — Now you can save money on milk while you secretly check out your ex-girlfriend’s new beau. Many companies are giving their Facebook fans exclusive savings and freebies just by joining. Check out your favorite freebies sites and Wise Bread’s Daily Deals to see how this social media site can score you free or low-cost coffee creamer, shampoo, and more!

In addition to these sites that give you savings for many brands, some major companies host coupons on their own sites. Two of the largest ones include:

EatBetterAmerica — This site is owned by General Mills, and will offer printable savings on brands like Nature’s Valley, Bisquick, and Yoplait.

PGEveryDaySolutions — A site of Proctor and Gamble (P&G), you’ll find coupons from Febreze, Tide, Crest, and more! (The coupons will be mailed to you!) Sign up for samples, as well.

Think you’re ready to go online and start couponing? There are a few tips you’ll want to keep in mind before you start:

Prep Your Printer — Once you click the “print” or “clip” button on the website, your printer will need to be ready to go. If you’re out of ink or paper, or the printer is offline (or you send it to the wrong one), you’ll miss out, since they rarely prompt you the way a normal document will. Since you only get one or two chances per coupon, be ready!

Know Your Limit — Many coupons can be printed once or twice per household or IP address. A few can be printed time and time again. Know how many you can print, and plan the best savings by taking advantage of multiple purchases.

Update Your Profile — For offers that will be mailed to you, be sure that your profile is updated with the correct address for mailing. If possible, check out your profile before you make your request, since changes might not be able to be made once you hit “submit.”

Printed coupons can be a huge benefit to the savvy shopper, but only if your store takes them. Call ahead to get their coupon policy before you waste money on paper and ink!

Dealista is a collaboration between Wise Bread and Quick and Dirty Tips, the producer of popular podcasts such as Grammar Girl, Money Girl, Winning Investor, and Mighty Mommy.

If you enjoyed these tips you can find more in our show's archive.

This article is from Linsey Knerl of Wise Bread, an award-winning personal finance and credit card comparison website. Read more great articles from Wise Bread:

Netbooks Guide: How to Buy the Best New Netbook

Lynn Truong — Mon, 28 Dec 2009 17:00:10 +0000

Dealista MP3:

Dealista #19: Netbooks Guide

This article shares tips from the newest episode of Dealista, our podcast that'll help you get more for less.

Netbooks are all the rage right now, and it’s easy to see why. They’re light, cheap (relatively), and have a long battery life. Anyone who’s struggled with travelling with a laptop can appreciate how truly portable a netbook is (on a recent trip across the country, I was able to put my netbook in my purse). However, there are important differences between a netbook and a laptop (and even among netbooks themselves), so if you’re thinking about buying a netbook, here are some things to consider before deciding on which to purchase.

Netbook Vs. Laptop

It’s important to know that a netbook is not just a small laptop. A netbook serves different needs and can't do everything a laptop can. A few features are sacrificed for the sake of portability. There are three major differences between a netbook and a laptop.

Size: Netbooks are half to two-thirds the size of a normal laptop and weigh about 2.5 pounds.
Price: Netbooks start at $200, but the higher end netbooks can go as high as $600 (which overlaps the prices of lower end laptops).
Processing: Netbooks have a lower processing speed than laptops and no optical drive (you can’t run DVDs or CDs). This keeps the price and weight low and battery life long, but less processing power means it’s difficult to use programs that require heavy processing, like photo/video editing and gaming. Additionally, the lack of an optical drive may be inconvenient for some users.

Shopping For A Netbook

Once you’ve decided that a netbook is for you, shopping for the right netbook can be confusing. While there are actually few cosmetic differences between laptops, netbooks vary greatly in their design and features.

Screen Size

The screen sizes on netbooks can range between 7 to 10 inches (although larger netbooks are coming out every day). That's actually a big difference from the average 15 inches on a full-sized laptop. It’s important to view your favorite sites and test out programs in order to decide which screen size is good for you.

Keyboard Layout

The keyboards on netbooks can vary greatly from each other. Some netbooks have a smaller keyboard, starting at about 88% the size of a full size keyboard. Some netbooks actually have a full size keyboard, but even if two netbooks have the same size keyboard, their layout could be very different — keys can positioned differently (closer or farther apart) — so test out the keyboard before committing to a netbook.

Operating Software

Most netbooks have moved to Windows 7 Starter, which is a lighter version of Windows 7 to help with load time and overall performance. You can also get a netbook with Linux, which is a much more basic and faster operating system. Netbooks with Linux run great for web surfing, email, and word processing via Open Office. However, Linux may be incompatible with some programs, and if you've never used it, you may have to take some time to get used to it. Lastly, you can still find netbooks running on Windows XP or Vista, and of course you can opt to upgrade to full Windows 7 for your netbook.

Battery Life

Being smaller, not having an optical drive, and having a slower processor help the battery life of a netbook significantly. Many netbooks come with a 6-cell battery which can get you unplugged for about 6-8 hours. A laptop usually comes with a 3-cell battery that gets between 1-3 hours. Additionally, netbooks generally come with a built-in web cam, wi-fi, card reader, and USB ports.

Some Recommendations

If you’re looking for a place to start, Gizmodo’s top 3 netbook picks are the Toshiba mini NB205 (what I’m using to write this article), HP mini 311, and Samsung N140. These were my top 3 picks as well, when I was researching which netbook to get. The HP mini 311 currently has the best graphics card for netbooks, allowing HD video playback, better gameplay, and faster video editing. I ended up with the Toshiba mini NB205 because I really liked their unique keyboard layout and large trackpad.

Note On GPUs

Matt left a great comment below detailing GPU features, if you're looking for a netbook that can handle some graphic intensive processes.

Good article, but there's one important, and easily overlooked, aspect you forgot, the GPU. The GPU is a crucial component for people who may want to watch video or play games on their netbooks, especially for netbooks with 10 or 11 inch screens that often have higher resolution.

There are currently 4 GPUs used in most of todays netbooks. The first is the Intel GMA950. This is an older GPU used in cheaper and older netbook models. It's also the worst one out there. Avoid it if you plan on using your netbook for any sort of media.

The next step up in Intel's newer GMA4500. It's a big step up over the GMA950, and handles higher resolution screens much better. However, it struggles with 3D applications. If you're getting a netbook with a high res screen, but don't plan to play games or other 3D applications, then the GMA4500 may work ok for you.

The current top dog in Netbook GPUs though is the Nvidia 9300M, sometimes referred to as Ion. It will handle High def video, newer 3D games on moderate visual settings, and all of Windows 7's UI bells and whistles with ease. The trade off is that you'll often pay $50-$100 more compared to similar netbook models and you might sacrifice a bit of battery life as well.

The last one isn't a GPU at all, but Intel's newest Pinetrail ATOM processors, which incorporate the GPU into the CPU. Early reviews show that they perform somewhere between the GMA950 and the GMA4500. They're cheap though, and they use moderately less power than othe GPUs, so if your graphics needs are modest, these may be a good solution.

Amazon.com Widgets

Dealista is a collaboration between Wise Bread and Quick and Dirty Tips, the producer of popular podcasts such as Grammar Girl, Money Girl, Winning Investor, and Mighty Mommy.

If you enjoyed these tips you can find more in our show's archive.

This article is from Lynn Truong of Wise Bread, an award-winning personal finance and credit card comparison website. Read more great articles from Wise Bread:

Shopping Smart at CVS

Linsey Knerl — Tue, 15 Dec 2009 00:50:38 +0000

Dealista MP3:

Dealista #17: CVS

This article shares tips from the newest episode of Dealista, our podcast that'll help you get more for less.

Maybe shopping at CVS doesn’t seem that frugal, but — if you play your cards right — there is a guaranteed way to get stuff there for free (or really, really cheap). We teamed up with Tara at DealSeekingMom.com to get the scoop on this national pharmacy chain, and how you can play their ExtraCare Bucks game to your advantage!

What are ExtraCare Bucks?

These are the method of savings that CVS employs for its customers. Similar to Walgreen’s Register Rewards, these are coupons that print out at the end of a qualifying promotional purchase. They are good on future purchases and can equal free stuff!

How do I get signed up?

It’s easy. By visiting the CVS.com website or signing up in store, you can be part of the ExtraCare Program. Tara suggests that you do it in-store, if possible, as this gets you instant access to a card and the savings that go along with it. (Otherwise, you’re looking at 2 weeks to receive it in the mail.) Note: Before signing up for the program, be sure there are stores in your area. Sadly, many would-be shoppers are nowhere near a CVS, and wouldn’t be able to take advantage of any of their offers.

How Do I get free stuff?

It takes a combination of planning and purchasing, but ultimately, you can save big money and get products for free by buying other items. Sites like DealSeekingMom.com and SlickDeals.net offer weekly updates on the products you should buy, combining sale prices, ExtraCare Buck promotional deals, and manufacturer’s coupons to get them deeply discounted (or for nothing). By looking at the OOP (out-of-pocket) price, you can see just how much you’ll have to spend up front to get your items. Sometimes, you’ll pay nothing, other times, you’ll reap your reward on future purchases made with those ExtraCare Bucks.

Using earned ExtraCare Bucks (or ECB’s) for future promotions that earn ECB’s is called “rolling,” and it’s what separates the serious CVS shopper from the hobbyist. By taking advantage of an offer like the one below, you can stock your pantry for little to nothing in total out-of-pocket dollars:

I purchased Adidas deodorant as part of a special CVS ECB promotion. The deodorant earned me ExtraCare Bucks for the month, and there was also a coupon available to get the deodorant for free in All You Magazine. Even though I wasn’t paying anything out of pocket (after the coupon), I still earned the ECBs on the transaction. So I paid with the coupon, got the item for free, and still earned $3.99 in ECBs to be used towards a future transaction.

Pretty slick, huh?

In addition to remembering that ECB’s expire within 4 weeks (so use them up!), you’ll want to keep these extra tips in mind while shopping:

Some CVS stores will give you a rain check on any item that is out of stock. This is great for that extra good deal that causes the store to be wiped out. Just ask for a rain check, and the cashier should give you one good for the item at the current price, minus the amount that the ECB would have been good for!
ExtraCare Bucks have some restrictions, and can't usually be used to purchase the following items: Prescriptions, alcohol, tobacco, lottery tickets, stamps, gift cards, money orders, and prepaid debit/phone cards.
You cannot receive change from an ECB. If your ECB is good for $5 off a purchase, and you only buy something that cost $4, you’re out a buck. Use ‘em or lose ‘em!
Present your coupons in this order to ensure maximum savings:
1. CVS dollar off coupons ($5 off a purchase of $25, for example)
2. CVS store coupons
3. Manufacturer’s coupons
4. ExtraCare Bucks

You may not think you need all the items that go on sale with ECB’s every month, but if there is a chance to score a quality product for free, you may want to go for it, anyway! Local shelters and many charities would love your gift of free shampoo, healthcare supplies, and diapers. You can use your CVS know-how to give on a tight budget this year!

Dealista is a collaboration between Wise Bread and Quick and Dirty Tips, the producer of popular podcasts such as Grammar Girl, Money Girl, Winning Investor, and Mighty Mommy.

If you enjoyed these tips you can find more in our show's archive.

This article is from Linsey Knerl of Wise Bread, an award-winning personal finance and credit card comparison website. Read more great articles from Wise Bread: