Patch Picks: Close Out National Coupon Month with a Few Ways to Save

Here's a few handy tips on getting a grip on the wallet and getting the biggest bang for your buck.

Off Season Shopping: Buy jackets in the summer and grills in the winter.

Be a Cheap Date: Check out what is going on in your area for free when making plans for the weekend. Free concerts, museums and events can be just as fun as a $15 movie.

Shop Off the List: Make a shopping list on your smartphone before you head out to shop for the week. Lists trim impulse buying and make it easier to search and gather coupons ahead of time. Shop Shop-Shopping List is a free iPhone App.

Clearance Please: It never hurts to browse the clearance aisle before you leave a store. Many stores allow you to use coupons on clearance items.

Generic Prescriptions: Transfer prescriptions to pharmacies that offer coupons and loyalty programs, or offer discounts on generic prescriptions.

Tune Up: Perform regular maintenance on your vehicles to avoid costly repairs. Many local businesses offer maintenance coupons on tires, oil changes and more so always check for print and online offers before scheduling service visits. On time oil changes can extend your motor's life.

Dine on a dime: After paying off debt, 27 percent of consumers say the next thing they spend their money on is dining out, according to Valpak. If you don't cook, look for local dining coupons and promotion that can cut your bill dramatically.

Valpak Deals: Check daily deals in your area for bargains on everything from the things you need to fun activities for the family, such as martial arts classes and bounce house party rentals.

Empty the Trunk: An extra 100 pounds in the trunk cuts a typical vehicle‘s fuel economy by up to 2 percent. You can save up to 9 gallons of gasoline per year – almost $40 – by removing an extra 100 pounds of unneeded items from the trunk, according to Valpak.

Save on Shaving: Dry your razor blades after use or store them in alcohol – they’ll last a lot longer.

Become a first time Customer: Use hair and nail salons that offer discounts for first-time customers.

Contests: Try to win contests like Patch & Win where you can win gift cards for things in your city. The Valpak Blue Envelope that comes in the mail has an opportunity for you to win $100 instantly. Each month, Valpak randomly selects envelopes and gives away money.