10 Ways to save money in 2010

We've gathered some sensible tips to help you start your new year on a financially sound note.

1. Check your credit card terms - out with the old and expensive, in with the new. Or even better, commit to paying off your balance and cutting up your card as a means of curbing excesses!
2. Create your own blance sheet - start your own spreahsheet of expenditure and income with the obvious aim of having more on the income side than the expenditure side.
3. Use those loyalty card points for your shopping - remember that points earnt on loyalty cards from your grocery shopping can also generally be used to get some extra pounds off at the till.
4. Beware of the 'buy now pay later' schemes that offer zero percent credit until a later date - as they often just encourage you to spend much more than you would have or need to.
5. Surf for vouchers - there are many sites that offer all manner of discount vouchers, worth checking out.
6. Shap around - the internet is a wonderful research tool, and there are many consumer forums where you can not only read a review of the product you are interested in, but may also get some tips and hints about where to buy products from people who have already made similar or the same purchases.
7. Go green - a significant portion of household expenditure goes towards fuel bills during the winter months.  You can save money by ensuring that your dwelling is as energy efficient as it can be.
8. Don't be shy to haggle - many of us are too polite to ask for the best price, but many retailers can and will discount their products and services to get your business.
9. Are you on the best plan? The new year is a good time to review whether your mobile/phone/broadband package is the best available as many providers are now offering offers and deals.
10. Shop around for the best re-mortgage deal - many providers are offering significant incentives for customers to deal with them directly.  Bad news for mortgage brokers, but some potentially good deals for you!