How to Save on Stocking Stuffers -- Savings Experiment

Holiday stocking stuffers are generally inexpensive, but if you have a lot of people to shop for, they can add up. Here are some tips that will help you save money (and time) this Christmas.

First, try shopping at stores that offer bonus gift cards and freebies for shoppers. If you'll be buying gifts anyway, you can score some stocking stuffers without spending any extra money. Last Christmas, stores like L.L.Bean, Lush, and Half Price Books all gave out $5 to $10 gift cards with a minimum purchase. Best Buy has even offered cards in exchange for old cellphones.

The dollar store can be great place to find stocking stuffers, too, but make sure to focus on things that don't need to be high quality -- like candles, bath products and arts supplies. Puzzle books are actually a great bargain at dollar stores, as they can cost up to $7 in discount stores.

Finally, while cheap gifts can be good, FREE gifts are even better. Department stores are constantly giving out complimentary samples of perfume and makeup, so be on the lookout for these while shopping.

This Christmas, keep these tips in mind when shopping. You'll trim the cost of stocking stuffers and leave more cash in your pocket for the new year.