As a consumer, how do you go about trying to save money in 2014?

For some people, it amounts to trying to cut back on adding or fixing things around the home, curtailing vacations and even skimping on new purchases like clothing or other accessories.

For others, however, it means looking at how they go about using plastic.

While some studies report that credit card usage among Americans is down, there is little doubt that countless shoppers still turn to plastic when making purchases on a wide array of items, including buying groceries and clothes, car repairs, maintenance and upgrades on their homes, needs for their automobiles and much more.

With that in mind, how can consumers better understand myriad of credit card offers they oftentimes get in the mail or online. How can they make the best decisions to lock in a card that offers both good interest rates and solid customer service?

Shop Wisely Before You Sign Off
In order to locate the best credit card deal for you and/or your family, keep these tips in mind:

1. Research – More credit card providers are spending the time needed to keep consumers up to speed on their latest offerings via their websites. Take the time to look at their websites, along with any Facebook pages, Twitter feeds, Pinterest or Google+ locations;
2. Ask Around – There is a very good chance that family members, friends, co-workers etc. have one or more credit cards in their wallets and purses. As a result, you would be foolish not to check with them to see which providers they opted for. Ask them about the APR (annual percentage rate), customer service reliability and whether or not the card company offers rewards and deals during the year;
3. Don’t settle – Finally, just like you would not settle for mediocrity when it comes to your automobile dealer or grocery store of choice, don’t settle for mediocrity with your credit card provider. Make sure you continuously review your credit card provider’s terms of conditions. If you see your interest rates increasing, your customer service waning etc. then take it upon yourself to shop around for a better deal. Yes, many financial experts warn against switching from card provider to card provider and opening and closing accounts too often. That said don’t be afraid to look for better deals, but make changes only when in your best interests. If you are thinking of transferring a balance or balances from other cards, weigh the pros and cons of doing so with another card provider.

According to Chris Mettler of CompareCards.com, finding the right credit card provider does not have to be an ordeal.

“Take the time to sift through all the offers and find the card provider that offers you the best rates and customer service,” Mettler commented.

As a consumer in 2014, there are many choices you must make in order to survive financially.

Shopping for the right card or cards should be something that you do with time and effort, both of which can lead you to the best deal possible.