Cutting back on our discretionary spending  on things like magazines, CDs, lunches, and coffee  can lead to big savings over time.

But you can also find extra savings on the essentials  things like groceries, household goods, and toiletries. This involves not so much cutting back as it does using practical smarts. No doubt you've developed your own tricks over the years, but here are a few more to consider.

Stock up. We use things like soap and paper towels every day. And unlike the latest fashions, these things never go out of style and have long shelf lives. Buying these items in bulk or larger sizes can lead to big savings over time. For added savings, stock up when they are on sale. If you live alone, consider splitting these purchases with a friend. The same goes for everyday items like dishes, bath towels, and linens.

Go generic. Drug and grocery stores have invested heavily in their own lines and store brands. These products are often just as good as their brand-name counterparts and will help you save cash.

Savvy shopping tip. Get to know the regular cost of items such as toiletries, and take advantage of differences in pricing. For instance, you may find better deals on toiletries in grocery stores than in drug stores.

Eye the shelves. Retailers will often put more expensive items at eye level, so be sure to look for lower-priced products above and below your sight line.

Savvy shopping tip. Some products offer price-per-unit information, which makes it easier to make accurate comparisons.

Shop on a full stomach. Avoid the temptation to buy groceries when you're hungry, as you're less likely to comparison shop and look for deals.

Making a list of what you'll need before you shop makes it easier to avoid impulse buying. Indeed, some experts say that more than two-thirds of what we buy in grocery stores is unplanned.

Produce tip. If you're taking advantage of a sale on fresh produce, reach behind and grab the fresher items, as they'll last longer. In general, older goods are placed at the front of the display.

Clip coupons. Another sure-fire way to get a good deal on daily items like groceries is to clip coupons. And don't forget to go online  many retailers and brand websites offer coupons that you can print out.

Sign up for e-flyers. Many retailers offer special offers and first dibs on seasonal specials for things like clothes and shoes. It doesn't cost you anything to sign up, and the deals are often tied to features at your local store.

Loyalty cards. These programs are a good way to get something back on money you were going to spend anyway. Rack up the reward points and use them to save on future purchases. These can be as simple as the buy-10-get-one-free variety for coffees or greeting cards, or savings on your groceries, gas, or toiletries.

Tip: Don't forget to cash in reward points. Had a look in your wallet or purse lately? Have you actually used any of the points you've been gathering on your loyalty cards? If you haven't, you may lose out to loyalty-card inflation  where the number of points needed to buy an item increases over time.

Use gift certificates. A large number of gift certificates are never redeemed (anywhere from 10% to 25%). If you received any gift certificates in the past year that you filed away, make sure you use them before they expire (usually within six months to a year).

Savvy shopping is about getting the most for your money. To make the whole process even more rewarding, put your found money aside for more important things like an emergency fund or a well-needed vacation. Having a short-term goal will help you stay on track and be a smarter shopper.