Saving money in your household budget isn't necessarily about buying less, but about changing where and how you purchase it. Particularly in the last few years, as the economy has soured and the cost of living has stayed just as high, people have been turning to smart strategies to cut their costs while still being able to buy the things they need, and even some things they want. Here are some of the major strategies that can make a noticeable difference in your bottom line.

Shop Sales: Particularly as the holiday season draws nearer, stores have all sorts of sales to get merchandise out the door. Keep an eye out for sales at your favorite stores and on the items you most need. For example, grocery store ads always discount dozens of items each week, and you can stick to buying and using these things for the week. Department store sales are perfect for getting clothes and home goods at a great price. Larger items such as appliances often go on sale as well, so never pay full price on these.

Use Layaway: Credit card interest is expensive, and even if you have every intention of paying off a purchase quickly, things can always get in the way. Next time you're in the market for a big-ticket item such as a plasma TV, shop around for the best price and find a store that has a layaway program. That way you can make payments on it over time with the added motivation of wanting to finish quickly so you can bring your purchase home. This is an easy way to help you budget for larger purchases if you have trouble on your own.

Hit the Thrift Shops: Your local thrift stores have some stellar deals, and all you have to do is sift through some amusing items to find them. Thrift stores are especially useful for clothes, where you can often find like new items for a fraction of the cost. Thrift stores are also ideal for kitchen equipment, kids toys, shoes, books, and more. If you're over 65 years old, check your thrift stores to see if they have

senior discount days. Many stores also have colored tag days where all items with a specific color of tag are steeply discounted.

Buy in Bulk: There are plenty of items that you use on a regular basis, and it doesn't make sense to buy them in small quantities. The price per unit almost always decreases as you buy more, so as long as you're sure you'll use it all before it spoils, don't be afraid to buy in bulk. For example, buy the value pack of ground beef and freeze it in the portions your family usually uses when you prepare it. Rather than getting a small package of toilet paper, go ahead and get the big package and stash extra rolls under a bed or in a big closet. Although your initial expenditure is larger, you'll save money in the long run.

As you start using these strategies, you'll probably start to discover even more ways to save money. One helpful tip is to find someone else who wants to shop smart and tell each other about the techniques you're using and the deals you're finding. Not only will the accountability motivate you to stick to your plan, but you'll probably learn about some tricks you would have never thought of yourself. Regardless, get started right away so you can begin to see your savings add up!

Holly is an Indianapolis native with a passion for green living and saving money. In her spare time, she blogs on behalf of Sears and other brands she loves.