In this struggling economy, it's a good idea to find ways to save money. Often we are unaware of all the little things we waste money on - and these little things can really add up over time. If you're wasting a few dollars every day; just think of how much you're wasting over the course of weeks and months.

The following tips will help you hang onto your hard earned money. They may seem simple and common sense, but they can make a difference if your whole family follows them.

1. Don't eat out so much. You will save so much money if you buy all your food at the grocery store and prepare your meals at home. Eat breakfast and make your coffee before you leave for work. Prepare and bring along lunch and snacks for work. And prepare dinner at home. You will be surprised at how much money you can save by avoiding expensive fast food joints, restaurants, convenience stores, and coffee shops.

2. Buy generic and use coupons. Try the cheaper store brand alternatives to your usual products - you might be surprised how good they are. And check your newspaper and magazines for money saving coupons.

3. In the summertime, turn your thermostat a little higher - wear fewer clothes and use fans. In the wintertime, turn your thermostat a little lower - wear more clothes. And sometimes you can turn the air conditioner or heater off and do just fine. Along the same line, be sure to put weather stripping around your windows and doors.

4. You will use less water by taking a shower instead of a bath. And don't leave the water running while you brush your teeth. Only use water when you're ready to rinse.

5. Do you leave the lights on when you leave the house? Do you turn lights on in the room that you don't really need? You can save money by turning as many of these off as you can. During the day; open your curtains or blinds to let the natural light in. We often don't pay attention to how much electricity we are wasting. And be sure to turn your television off when you're not using it or when you leave the house.

6. Plan out all your errands ahead of time. Try to get everything done in one car trip - not separate trips. You could combine trips to the grocery store, bank, drug store, etc. into one trip. And why not carpool with neighbors and/or friends. Combine your errands together and you'll have some fun companionship while you're out doing boring tasks. Be sure your tires are properly inflated and your car is tuned up. Gas is so expensive nowadays, there's no reason why you should be wasting it.

Often times we don't realize the little things that we are doing to waste money and they add up over time. Keep these tips in mind and share them with your family so that the money saving will be multiplied. Saving money doesn't have to be painful, and sometimes it can even be fun if you view it as a game.