There are Costco’s located on all the major Hawaiian islands. It costs $50 for a membership. If fifty bucks seems a bit steep, rest assured that you will probably save that much on your first visit to Costco. It may feel a little overboard purchasing 60 rolls of toilet paper, 18 cartons of soy milk and 12 cans of Pringles, but buying in bulk is a huge money saver in the long run. Go here to sign up.

2. Check Craigslist

What is Craigslist!? To my shock, I still meet people that are unfamiliar with this invaluable resource. In case you’re still in the dark, craigslist.org is a bare-bones, classifieds website for just about everything imaginable in almost every location on the planet. It’s completely free and perfect for finding anything from cheap furniture to tickets for latest sold out Jack Johnson concert. I highly advise using this resource if you want to save some coin. I don’t know how I lived without it. Just be wary of scams. The best thing about Craigslist can also be the worse thing. If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is.

3. Use Public Transportation

Car payments, parking, insurance and gas are expensive in Hawaii. If you cut the costs of your vehicle, you will save a considerable amount of money each month. If you live in an area of Hawaii with public transportation, it’s a great option. It might take a little longer to get where you need to go, but with all the money you’ll be saving you can purchase a fancy iPod to pass the time. Hawaii bus drivers are generally very nice and full of warm aloha spirit. They’ll help you get to where you need to go. Check out Google Transit to get more familiar with routes.

4. Buy Food on Sale

It’s common sense, but we all forget on occasion. Get a Safeway or Foodland card, buy fruit and vegetables that are in season, go to farmer’s markets, and don’t be afraid to use coupons. All of these tactics will add up to saving you some serious dollars. Also, if your strapped for cash it’s probably not the best idea to grocery shop when you’re hungry.

5. Carpool

Do you want to go hike Waimea Canyon, surf North Shore or visit the Volcanoes National Park? Convince other people that they want to go too! Take one car and split the gas. The same concept applies for colleagues at work. Most of us carpool anyway, just don’t be afraid to ask for a little gas money.

6. Walk or Ride a Bike

You’re on an island. How far can the nearest beach or store be? Unless you’re living in the country, most conveniences are probably within biking distance. Maybe even walking distance. Instead of driving a mile, try biking or walking a mile. You’ll save money and get some exercise and fresh air in the process.

7. Take Advantage of Free Entertainment

So you’re poor, but still want to have fun? No worries. One of the best things about Hawaii is the abundant source of free entertainment and perfect weather to compliment it. There’s a beach or jungle around every corner. Check out the free movie and entertainment at Sunset on the Beach in Waikiki. Swim in the pool of a 5 star hotel pretending you’re a guest. Free fun abounds in Hawaii!

8. Ask for Kama’aina Rates

If you live in Hawaii, ask for kama’aina (local rates). Just pronouncing the word correctly is half the battle. Having some form of ID or proof that you live here is the other half. Many places offer kama’aina, but they don’t announce it to the world. So be sure to ask, even if you get a few odd looks.

9. Use Fans, Not Air Conditioning

The difference between using AC and not using AC is about $100 to $150 dollars a month in electricity. If you need to cut the fat out of your bills, go to Costco and buy a floor fan. If it’s still too hot inside, go to the beach.

10. Eat In

I’m guilty of always wanting to eat out. A lot of us probably are. We love the convenience of someone else making our food, and that’s great if you can afford it. If you can’t, it’s wasted money. I think it’s a good idea to limit yourself to the amount of times you eat out per week or month.