WFAA-TV

The dollar isn't what it used to be, so it's time to tighten the belt for many of us.

But spending less doesn't have to make you feel poor.

If anything, you can make it fun, like one family did.

Here are three tips to save you money.

Tuesdays and every other day are busy at Plato's Closet in Dallas.

One East Texas woman gathered up her daughters and friends and went consignment store shopping.

"We got online and mapped out all the Plato's Closets in the metroplex area and we hit three yesterday and we plan to hit three today... My friend and I are teachers and we can't afford jeans new," said Becky Morris, a shopper.

Maureen Johns with City Credit Union gave us three tips to save money. The first?

"Consignment shopping is great not only because we save money when we shop here but then when we're done with the clothes, especially children's clothes, we can make money," Johns said.

Maureen says don't just buy your clothes at consignment stores. You can buy household items and also furniture, sometimes brand new furniture, at consignment stores. All you have to do is find a place near you.

Also, bundle up: if you're dealing with different companies and different bills for your cable TV, phone and internet service, consider bundling them up. Many companies offer discounts if you buy all three in one.

And finally, don't pay high interests on your credit cards. Call the company and ask them to lower your rate, especially if you've shopped competitors.

"We're tracking every penny and this is one way to save," said Becky Morris.

Also, call the comptroller's office at 800-654-3463 to see if you have any money owed to you. You'll be surprised at all the unclaimed money waiting to be found.

E-mail cizaguirre@wfaa.com.