NAPSI: The economic picture may be brightening, but many consumers are still feeling the challenges from the past few years and planning ahead to save money. That means they’ll look for sales and use coupons. In addition, some will think outside the “money-saving box” this holiday shopping season.

One unconventional savings strategy that shoppers plan to try when buying gifts will be haggling over prices. In fact, a recent survey found that more than four in 10 are likely to consider haggling as a tactic to save money on holiday shopping this year. Seven percent said it’s very likely they will haggle.

If haggling isn’t quite your style, there are a variety of other ways you can save major money this shopping season:

• Garage sales: It may take some effort, but there are inexpensive treasures to be found at garage sales that can round out your holiday shopping. Join the one-quarter of U.S. adults who said they would consider shopping at garage sales this holiday season and you might come across some hidden gems. Get started by checking community boards and neighborhood newsletters or look online to figure out when people near you are hosting a garage sale.

• Pawnshops: Consider shopping at pawnshops to save serious cash this holiday season. Jewelry, DVDs and tools are just a few of the great buys to be had but keep expectations to a minimum. Understand that all the items are used and may not be of the highest quality.

• Follow up-to-the-minute coupons: Coupons have long been a traditional money-saving method, but keeping track of all the offers, daily deals and specials happening can seem overwhelming. North American Precis Syndicate, Inc.