Sure, consumer spending is supposed to get us out of this economic mess. But as individuals, we have to figure how to make ends meet through what could be many months – maybe even several years – of job insecurity, sagging value of our homes and securities, and most likely steadily rising prices for necessities. That means trimming expenses. Here are some tips:

Transportation: With gasoline at $4 a gallon or more, it makes sense to hold your speed down to 55 miles per hour, plan how to drive less, maybe trade in the SUV for something that gets better mileage, perhaps even one of the new hybrid or all-electric cars, but only if the math shows a saving. Some are turning to bicycles, motorbikes or even more walking. If you want to go to Boston, try taking the bus.

Food: Restaurants and prepared takeouts are fun and convenient, but they cost much more than home-cooked meals and brown-bag lunches. Make eating out an occasional treat instead of a frequent routine.

Shopping: Make a list of what you need, and watch out for impulse buying. Look for market specials. Good steaks and roasts often are marked down as they age, and aging improves the taste. You might grow some of your own vegetables. Supermarket produce is expensive because that’s one of the places a profit can be made now that so many people get other groceries at big-box stores.

Communication, which has become a major expense category: Shop around for a cheaper cell phone system and hold down on usage. The old saying that “the telephone is for communication, not conversation” has gone out of style, but constant talk and text messaging add up fast. Maine’s Public Advocate has a monthly publication that can show you how to save on telephone bills. For your television, consider basic cable to avoid the constantly rising monthly fees.

Bill paying: Always pay your credit card bill in full and on time to avoid the astronomical fees for carrying a balance. During the month, keep track of what you put on the card so that the statement won’t come as a surprise. Same with your checking account to avoid the bank’s overdraft fees. Pay your mortgage and auto loan fees on time to keep your credit record clean.

Recurrent versus one-time purchases: Occasional treats are fine, but a daily latte or snack or drink at a bar can cost a lot. Same for daily or weekly betting on the lottery or slot machines. It may be fun, but the players are mostly losers.

Keeping track of spending: Daily notes on what you are paying out or charging will help you from going overboard.

If this all seems pretty grim, it doesn’t have to be. Getting and keeping control of expenditures can help you get through these bad times and, if you keep doing it, get you ahead in good times. Think of it as a contest you can win rather than a burden.