Over the years, savvy shopper Deb Williams has saved thousands of dollars at stores and supermarkets. "It didn't require much effort," she explains. "It just took time to search out the best deals." What's her secret? She spends just an hour or two a week clipping coupons and surfing the Internet, but also finds great bargains by thinking outside the box. Check out some of Deb's top tips below, and let her help you get more bang for your buck!

• Make a plan. "Planning is key when you're trying to save money. You do impulse shopping and you end up spending more."

• Don't "discount" discount stores. "You can have last season’s fashion at 70 percent off or even more."

• Make friends with the sales associate. "Find out what they have in stock that's not yet out on the floor. They'll get to know my taste so that they'll call me when my favorite items come in so that I can get the first dibs."

• Combine specials with coupons. By using the supermarket's sales in conjunction with coupons that she's clipped, Deb saves as much as 50 percent off her bill at the grocery store.

• Check out Alice.com. This website takes collecting coupons to a new level. First, you can select the products that you buy the most. Alice keeps track of your items, finds coupons, and reminds you of what's running low. Then you can order what you need, when you need it, and have it shipped for free!

• Search for magazine promo codes. The last place you would think to look for a bargain would be in a magazine – but magazines have a ton of great promotional codes you can use on their websites. You can find discounts, promotions ... you just need to learn to look for the fine print when you're reading through your favorite magazine.

• Take AAA.com on the road. Most people know that AAA members have access to a bunch of great deals and discounts. But now you can download a AAA application for your iPhone, and using GPS it will track where you are and what discounts you can access in your area. Plus, many other companies are using Facebook and Twitter accounts to update you about great deals!