1. Take a lap. Ever have buyer's remorse about an impulse purchase? Give yourself 30 minutes to decide before breaking out your wallet. Walk around the mall or grab some lunch and really think about whether it's worth the money. If you're worried the item will get snapped up while you're away, place it on hold at the register -- stores usually give you 24 hours to decide.
2. Ask for a discount or free delivery. That's right. Ask. A store rarely offers anything outright for free, but you may be rewarded for speaking up. Just as the sales associate is about to ring up your purchase of $150 or more, ask whether she can offer a discount. After all, you may be helping her get a sizable commission.
3. Head for the refurbished bin. Many online merchants like Callaway Golf Company and Dell offer refurbished goods -- items that have been returned and sometimes repaired -- at discounts of 10 percent or more. Items are often practically perfect, but do give possible purchases a thorough once-over.