New website helps consumers find the real deals

MIAMI, May 15, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- Times are hard. Prices for food, gas and fun keep rising, yet our incomes can't keep up. A new website, Living on the Cheap, says you don't have to count squares of toilet paper or sacrifice cappuccinos to make ends meet.

Run by 22 veteran consumer journalists, Living on the Cheap is packed with practical advice on everything from using coupons for healthy food to saving money on car repairs. Its savvy reporting helps you navigate the many restaurant and retail loyalty programs or decide whether a bargain cruise is really a bargain.

Here are five tips for stretching your dollar:

1. The most valuable card in your wallet is your library card. Libraries offer workshops, entertainment, story hours and even help finding a job, all for free. Many libraries also distribute free passes to local museums and attractions.

2. Sign up for email alerts from your favorite restaurants and stores or "like" them on Facebook. You'll get advance notice of sales as well as coupons, freebies and special offers.

3. Track down the clearance section at your grocery store. You'll find slightly damaged and discontinued items at a significant discount. Use coupons with these for extra savings.

4.  Check out websites like gofobo.com for free passes to movie previews. Join cinema loyalty programs to earn free tickets. Some theaters host weekly half-price days. This summer, many theaters will offer free or $1 kids' movies.

5. Like sports but hate high ticket prices? Sign up for emails from ticket sellers. Many send out deals and two-for-one offers. Check local newspapers and websites for package deals (such as tickets, food and drinks). Try college sports for great action at bargain prices.

Living on the Cheap is written by savvy frugalistas who know a deal when they see one. Its contributors write for MSN Money, The Miami Herald, CBS News, AARP The Magazine, New York Magazine, Consumer Reports Money Adviser, O Magazine, The Boston Globe, Bankrate.com and more, plus have written dozens of books.

The contributing editors also publish local On the Cheap websites in 29 U.S. cities.

"These days, we're bombarded with money-saving tips and 'deals' that aren't really deals at all," says Teresa Mears, co-founder and editor-in-chief. "Our mission is to bring readers the tips that really save them time and money."

Contact: Teresa Mears, [email protected], 305-992-0041

SOURCE Living on the Cheap