Click your way to savings

Not surprisingly, the recession is changing the way we shop. The stigma of using coupons, haggling over prices and questioning costs is quickly evaporating. These days, there are deals to be found on almost everything, whether it's luxury items like cars and vacations, or basics like groceries and clothing.

But there's one caveat: Finding and keeping track of all these deals can be tricky and time-consuming. Luckily, there are many websites and services that make things easier for consumers. If you're hunting for a bargain, here are some places in Canada to look.

Deal-finding sites

SmartCanucks.ca has a little bit of everything for everyone. Here you'll find deals, contests, freebies and coupons. And search isn't required: the website's blog (complete with RSS updates) keeps you informed about the latest deals.

Redflagdeals.com also has deals, coupons, forums and features covering a wide variety of areas, including credit cards and price comparisons. You can sign up to receive their newsletter, or try the RSS feed too.

Likewise, websites like Frugal Shopper Canada, PriceNetwork.ca, CoolCanucks.ca and CanadianFreeStuff.com all offer a selection of deals and coupons, and include advice and suggestions from users too. Forums and user-generated content add additional value. You can find out if a company made good on its promise to send a free sample, or if the local supermarket refused a printed coupon.