Super savings

Whether you’re a veteran penny pincher or an accomplished shopaholic, managing money is tough. Don’t worry, though. Our expert advice provides a wealth of ideas on improving your finances.

Learn to cook

The average American household spent $2,211 eating out in 2003, with singles spending more than half their food budget at restaurants. “No question: If you cook your own meals, you’ll save money,” says Gary Foreman, editor of The Dollar Stretcher (stretcher.com). If playing Iron Chef isn’t your thing, minimize kitchen duty by making extra helpings of freezable entrees (soup, anyone?) for later.

Baby-sitting co-op

Parents of young children often don’t go out because baby sitters cost so much (up to $15/hour in New York City!). A wallet-friendly alternative? Swap child-care hours with parents from your kid’s school, music class or neighborhood playground. “You’ll save money and the kids will have fun,” says Kimberly Danger, founder of mommysavers.com.

Master the art of a deal

“Americans are embarrassed to negotiate,” laments Jeff Yeager, proprietor of ultimatecheapskate.com. Yet in other parts of the world, it’s not only welcome, it’s expected. Yeager, who says he saves at least $1,000 a year asking for discounts, suggests adopting a genial approach. “Smile and say, ‘I’d like a nice-guy discount,’ ” he suggests. If refused, you’re no worse off than when you started.

12 months of Christmas

Think you’re done with holiday merriment for 10 more months? Think again, says Jean Ann Fox of the Consumer Federation of America. Spreading your gift purchases throughout the year is better for your bottom line, and will net your recipients more thoughtful presents, too. Start by making a list of giftees and then wait for the right present at the right sale price.