I use Freecycle.or./paperbackswap.com/bookmooch.com and also use coupons. I average 50% savings at the grocery store. I also shop at a grocery store where I earn money off gas, last trip I saved .30 per gallon.

Luckily my local market doubles coupons up to $0.50 and i try to only buy if something is on sale and if I have a coupon. I find that i'm shopping at more "bargain stores" such as Dollar tree,Dollar General, Aldi's and Save-A-Lot. I have found through my bargain shopping that may off brands are as good as or in some cases ,better than the so called name brands.

I am lucky, because I know how to sew and a lot of people don't. I also use freecycle to find and get rid of stuff. There is another website called "Poshpoints.com" This is a swap website where you can post things you no longer need and trade them for "points". You can use these points to "buy" things you like.
I also recycle leftovers as much as possible.

use code: DIL554 to receive an instant $5.00 off your first order at iherb.com
I love this site. You will be hard pressed to find vitamins and herbs cheaper!