Most geeks know where to look to find the really geeky stuff. There's a procedure, however, you need to follow in order to spend as little money as possible in satisfying your inner geek.

Some of you frequent websites such as ThinkGeek and Newegg (don't forget Technoscout.com) to see what's hot, new and exciting. Once you've found that dream item (which I can't afford most of the time), and you're in that initial "ooh and aah" stage, you must resist the almost overwhelming compulsion to pull out your credit card and buy it right now.

Once you finish wiping the drool off your face, hop on over to PriceGrabber.com or DealTime and do some comparison shopping. Don't just look at the prices! Look at the shipping costs as well. Some items may be lower at one store than another, yet the shipping costs make them more expensive. Don't forget to check out which stores are close to you. Sometimes, but not always, a simple trip across town can save a bundle.

This is precautionary advice — tax refunds are coming in.