opportunities to save in just about every industry. You see the signs, the online specials, and the flyers that tell us about all of the “deals” and “bargains” that we can get. In addition to getting you excited about saving, cost conscious consumers can use these advertised specials as a price point for future purchases. Pretty much, once you see what the “special” price is supposed to be, then you will be able to figure out the real price versus the supposed deal. But, don’t stop there with trying to buy for cheap. You can also find lots of other discounts by doing something so simple as asking!

In some cultures, asking for a discount is expected. It is as if no one expects to pay the ticket prices. However, with the economic issues that many nations are facing, asking (or even haggling) for lower prices is becoming more common and much more accepted. Here are a few industries in which you can ask for lower prices and be confident that you could actually receive them:

1. Motels and Hotels – The hospitality industry is known for always having some type of deals going on. You can get the best buy, cheapest price, and best rooms by doing something as basic as asking for them. Managers want to sell off all of the space that they have available, and even though there are internet specials and advertised discounts, they are often willing to offer even more breaks for those that ask for them.

2. Local and National Restaurants – You can always expect to find coupons available for dining out. Most national pizza chains and other fast food restaurants always have a special going on. Many of these offer discounts such as 2-for-1 specials or even free items! In addition to the advertised specials, most restaurants have their own in-house specials or unpublished deals that you can only get when you ask for them.

3. Planes, trains, and automobiles – Most travel companies offer discounts either through their frequent users travel programs or through haggling based websites such as Priceline.com. From upgrades to “buy one, get one” to free future travel deals, people can usually expect to buy for cheap when it comes to the travel industry if they make effort to ask for the best possible price. In an economic crisis like we are currently in, people will most likely be doing less traveling. So, there should be plenty of opportunities for families to get cheaper prices.

4. Phone and internet service – All of the telecommunications companies want your business. They usually publicize the deals that they want people to see. These are not usually the best possible price. To get that “special” unpublished price, you will need to call and speak with an agent. Tell them that you want a deal and watch them make it happen for you.

There is always a way to buy for cheap. But to get the best price ever, simply smile, be nice, and ask!