• Buy only the "must-haves" (say, a precise color or model, or a hot toy that might sell out quickly). Otherwise, wait as long as possible. Prices will continue to decline and will drop, often drastically, on Dec. 26.
• Use coupons. Do an Internet search for "coupon" and the store or product name. One great source is retailmenot.com, which reveals coupon codes for online stores.
• For electronics, visit brick-and-mortar stores to make your choice, then check online sites like pricegrabber.com and shopzilla.com to comparison shop.
• Always bargain. Do your online research first, then take printouts to the store and ask them to match the price. Buy refurbished electronics (from reliable stores and online sites only). Ask for volume discounts when buying multiples. Choose open-box or floor models.
• Sign up for e-mail discounts for your favorite stores.
• Look for free shipping, which is widespread this year. Also, shop early to avoid high overnight fees close to Christmas.
• Do it yourself. The cost of small gifts adds up. Instead, make your own gifts such as salsa, cookies, bracelets, knit scarves or preserves. Also, etsy.com features well-priced crafters and artists.
• Give one gift for the whole family, such as board games or DVDs, or a gift basket of desserts and teas.
• Set a budget and keep track of spending. Pay with cash, not credit cards. In today's economy, everyone understands frugality.
• Agree to not exchange gifts. Frequently, this is the best gift of all.
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