I get asked by people of all ages for ideas on how to save money. I think it’s because I manage to balance my checkbook and have a nice savings in the bank. But in reality, I never stray away from the simple ideas of saving money. It doesn’t matter your age, anyone can save money. Here is some of the saving money ideas that I tell to people.

Buy low-cost, store-brand film. Retail chains like as Target and Kmart sell 35mm film by 3M Company and other high-quality manufacturers. The price difference is at least 25% less than Kodak or Fuji brand. Another alternative is buying or borrowing a digital camera and uploading the pictures to an online photo developer. They charge much less, sometimes 50% less, than brick and mortar stores. Make sure to sign up for any free photo developing with shipping promotions.

Share tasks, tools and time. If you think ahead, you can save a great deal by organizing exchanges and bargaining with friends and neighbors. For example, you can buy the electric drill and a neighbor can buy the leaf-blower. Or you can agree to baby-sit in exchange for help with chores. If you are a plumber and need your computer fixed, you can trade for these services.

Always ask for discounts if you appear to be a senior. Most senior specials are unadvertised. You often don't have to be retirement age to take advantage of them. Start asking for specials the day you turn 50. Ask at banks, hair salons, bus lines and anywhere you're going to be spending money.

Water is good for you and you're supposed to drink eight glasses a day. If your local water is really bad, then buy store brand distilled water. You'll save a bundle on fruit juice, soft drinks, coffee and tea. If you like to drink juice and can’t spare them, opt for buying frozen juices rather than those that are ready to drink. The frozen kind is a lot cheaper in price and last just as long.

Since anything you purchase must be sent to you, shipping charges can eat significantly into advertised cost savings. For example, a $19.95 book might be advertised online for $13.95 but cost $5.95 to ship. You can get caught up in the pre-shipping price and pay $19.90 and save only 5 cents! You can probably go to a local discount bookstore and haggle for a better price. Don’t forget, you have to wait for the book to arrive too.