Thanks to the slow U.S. economy and TV shows like “Extreme Couponing,” saving money has never been more hip. And now, technology has made it easier than ever to save money -- with just a few apps on your smartphone. Most of these are even free and everyone loves a freebie! Let’s take a look at how you can save time and money by using these smartphone apps, organized by category:

Price Comparison Shopping

• GasBuddy
This free app shows you the cheapest gas station around, no matter where you are. It’s a great tool for travellers to find the best place to fuel up and to get directions on how to get to that gas station.

• ShopSavvy 4
To use this free app, use your smartphone’s camera to scan an item’s barcode. The program gives you a description of the product and shows you the cheapest place to find it. Any available coupons or rebates will be shown as well.

• RepairPal mobile
Everyone deals with a broken-down car at some point. This powerful, free app helps you obtain accurate repair and service estimates, locate nearby tow truck services, and use one-touch roadside assistance.

Finance Tools & Other Reference

• Mint.com Mobile
This app, also free, helps you keep track of where your money is at all times. You can view updated bank account information, but the real gem is the budgeting tool; once you’ve set up your monthly budget, the app will assist you in sticking to that budget. For instance, if you’re at the store trying to decide whether that impulse purchase is worth it -- say, a new outfit -- you can check your phone to see if you have enough money left in your budget for clothes and shoes. This app is a great tool for keeping your spending in check.

• PageOnce Bills
This free app allows you to track all your monthly bills in one location and receive alerts when a bill’s due date is coming up. What a fun, reliable way to avoid those pesky late fees! One of the neatest things about the app is that after you’ve entered your bill information, all of those billing statements will automatically be sent to your phone.

• TomTom USA
This app, retailing at $40, is an excellent substitute for pricey stand-alone GPS systems. This app features turn by turn voice navigation, traffic info, points of interest, and constant updates.

Multimedia & Communication

• Skype Mobile
This free app offers the ability to make free video calls on the iPhone, as well as use free instant messaging and very low rates on text messages.

• Last.fm
This station provides free music based on your listening history and what your friends play. Some reviewers suggest that this free app can replace your Pandora monthly subscription.

There you have it -- eight of the best apps on the market for smartphone owners who are looking to save a few bucks. Using these tools will help you minimize unavoidable expenses and stay within your monthly budget.

My name is Nisha Sharma, I represent a site called Freebies365.co.uk. We love to give away free stuff, we can’t help it!