By now, you’ve probably heard about daily deal sites like Groupon and Living Social. There are a number of other daily deal sites out there that provide discounts on items, and offer you the chance to get coupons for a great price. In most cases, you can save 40% to 60% when you buy a daily deal. But it’s important to make sure that you are getting the most of these daily deal sites. Otherwise, you are just wasting your money. Here are 4 tips that can help you get the most bang for your daily deal buck:

1. Look for Super Local Deals

The first thing you need to do is make sure that the deal is local enough that you will actually use it. If you have to go out of your way to use something you got from Groupon or Living Social, chances are that your certificate will go to waste. Check to make sure that it is something you will be able to redeem easily.



2. Get Something You Would Use Anyway

Next, make sure you are getting something that you would have bought regardless. If you go out to eat a couple of times a month, it makes sense to get a restaurant daily deal. However, if you weren’t planning on buying a new blender, why spend money on the daily deal? Now, you’re actually spending money you didn’t intend to spend; you’re not really saving.



3. Buy with Friends

If you have a plan to do something with someone else, you are more likely to use your daily deal coupon. Make plans to enjoy your great deal with someone else. Set a date when you will go to the spa with your mom and sister, and then all three of you can get the daily deal. You’ll use it together, and be more likely to get your money’s worth. Firm plans to use your deal with someone else can encourage you to actually use it.



4. Check Regularly — But Don’t Always Take the Deal

Make sure you check regularly so that you don’t miss a daily deal. This is a great way to make sure that you are getting the deals you want. Sign up for alerts to be sent to your email. Realize, though, that just because you check everyday doesn’t mean you should take the deal. Check regularly so you don’t miss out, but only get the deals that make sense for you. Most days, you will probably leave the deal on the table — and keep your budget intact.