Instead of buying items that you may use only a few times, consider renting, leasing, or perhaps borrowing from friends or neighbors. Instead of buying a new or used book, visit your local library. The library is also the perfect place to read magazines, newspapers, or even borrow a video. Other items that can readily be rented, that might not have seemed so obvious, include:

• Power tools, ladders, and other equipment.
• Party supplies like tables, chairs, linen tablecloths and napkins, china, glassware, and cutlery. Rental centers will often deliver and pick up the items for you.
• Formal dresses and gowns as well as tuxedos, top hats, and cummerbunds, or costumes for special occasions.
• Outdoor sporting equipment like bicycles, roller blades, fishing gear or canoes.
• Musical instruments.