Money Saving Tips For The Post-Holiday Bills Blues

MIAMI (CBS4) -  It seems that ever since the start of the new year, there are higher prices at the check-out counters on top of increased credit bills from holiday shopping.

Rising production costs and higher gas prices are hurting everyone's New Years' budgets.

So can beat the higher costs without breaking the bank?

First, keep a sharp eye out for bulk food bargains and discount coupons on items you need to buy. Also consider better meal-planning by basing your nightly dishes on weekly specials.

While tempting, don't buy something on sale that you may not really use.

With unleaded regular gas already approaching $3.30 a gallon you can stretch your mileage by taking extra weight out of your car, clean out the trunk, make sure your vehicle's well maintained and keep the tires properly inflated.

Let's face it, monthly electric bills are always a problem. To save a few bucks, over the winter turn off your air conditioning and open the windows. If it gets too warm or muggy, turn the a/c back on but turn up the thermostat. You can also save money by lowering the water temperature in hot water heaters.

Looking for more ways to save? Check out these websites:

Shopittome.com - finds sales on your favorite clothing and designer brands
RenttheRunway.com - rent high fashion dresses for a fraction of the sale price
Retailmenot.com - for all your online coupon and discount code needs
Mybargainbuddy.com - for online bargains and coupon codes