It's getting to be that time of year, when those of us that live in northern climates need to bundle up in warm winter coats before we goat outside. But it can be a very costly item for many families to afford this year.

If you live where the temperatures are routinely below zero, then you need a down coat or heavy wool coat. And warm winter coats also need to be long to protect most of your body. This adds up to an expensive clothing item, even if you keep your coat for seveal seasons.

Ebay is one of the best places to find affordable clothing. You can really do your research to find the best deals. Not only can you see what sellers are selling warm winter coats for, but you can see what buyers are willing to pay forthem. And you can watch how quickly bids are increasing.

You do need to know your size. If you are in doubt visit the local Wal-Mart or department store and try on a few so you know your size. On Ebay each item only comes in a few sizes so you do need to be patient. If you're handy with a needle you can make a few simple alterations like hemming the sleeves if they are too long. But in the winter a little extra length really doesn't bother me that much. It just keeps me warmer.

The last time I checked there were hundreds of winter coats available on Ebay. You can browse and learn about what's available in your size and budget without having to explain anything to the store clerk.

And if you don't see just the right winter coat that you need today, you can always check back tomorrow to see what ebay sellers have added. Simply check out any of the winter coats shown here, and you'll be able to brows all of the winter coats available on Ebay.

Let your kids shop with you online. Explain that money is tight - most kids know this already. They will be relieved that there is a strategy in place to deal with hard times. If you let them have some control over what's happening, they'll pitch in and be real troopers. They might even be better at finding deals than you are!

It can become a game for them to stay on budget and find something that's appropriate. You're also teaching them to be good consumers and good at money management.

It is easy for parents and especially men to want to do without to protect their families. But it's important for everyone to have warm outerwear. If your husband is driving home and his car breaks down, he needs to be able to keep warm while waiting for help to come.

This isn't about impresing people with fashion, it's about keeping healthy and safe. If you shop carefully on Ebay, and have a little luck, you might just be able to outfit the entire family in warm winter coats - for less than you might pay for one winter coat in a department store.