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Shopping online

You can often get a better deal by shopping online for everything from CDs and books to large electrical goods.

To use an online shopping site you'll need to have a bank account, as you'll have to fill out a registration form with your bank details on it.

If you do shop online, it's important that you use a site that ensures your card details are kept safe. This means that the website uses technology that protects your bank details from online fraudsters and hackers. You'll know if it is a secure site if the website address begins with 'https' and if a small padlock icon appears in the bottom of your window.

• Getting a current account
• More advice about opening a bank account Opens new window
• Get safe online - expert advice for everyone Opens new window

Loyalty cards

It's not just supermarkets that operate loyalty schemes - many high street stores now do them as well, but don't confuse them with store cards as they're not the same.

Joining a loyalty scheme means that every time you shop at the same store, you'll be given a number of points depending on how much you've spent. Once you've accumulated enough, you can use your points to pay for your shopping in the same way that you'd use cash.

Your points will be held on your own loyalty card that you give to the cashier whenever you pay for your goods. You'll also be able to check how many points you've got in the store or online.

Loyalty cards are handy if you buy a lot of things from the same shop, and you'd be surprised how quickly points can add up.

• Information about store cards and credit cards

Magazine vouchers

Keep your eyes peeled for any money off vouchers in magazines that you read.

There are always lots of offers that give you a discount if you spend a certain amount in store, especially on things like toiletries, music and DVDs. You can also pick up buy one, get one free vouchers that you can use to pick up more stuff without paying any extra for it.

Going out and spending your money just for the sake of using the voucher isn't a good idea, but if you were planning on a shopping trip, make the most of any vouchers that you can pick up.

Cheap cuts

If you're after a good haircut or fancy a bit of pampering, but can't afford to go to a top salon, find out whether there are any hair and beauty schools near you. There could also be one in your college you never knew about.

Many hairdressing academies are always on the lookout for people who are willing to let a student cut their hair for a reduced price, and there's always a lecturer on hand to make sure that no mistakes are being made.

It may take longer than a usual appointment and you may only be able to go during the day, but the discounts can be huge.

Selling your old stuff

If you're looking to raise some extra cash quickly, have a look and see if you've got anything to sell.

If you have a good look around, you're bound to discover some unwanted stuff lying around that either you don't use anymore or have grown out of.  But instead of just throwing them in the bin, unwanted CDs or old furniture can give your bank balance a much needed boost - and you may surprised at the amount of money you can raise.

Once you've got some things together, you can put an advert in your local paper, sell things to your friends, or maybe use one of the many online auction sites on the internet. If you're after a quick sale, make sure that you describe your items accurately and your asking price is a realistic one.

But make sure that you ask if it's OK before you sell anything. Getting rid of something that might have sentimental value to someone else, or something that a younger relative might be able to use will probably cause arguments.

Charity shops

If there's a good cause that's really close to your heart, try your local charity shop. You can often find books, DVDs and accessories at real bargain prices.

As well as saving money, you'll be contributing to a good cause at the same time.

More useful links

• Know your consumer rights (rights and responsibilities section)