Dec. 11--Despite a lagging economy that has left most Americans thinking they should save their money rather than spend it -- the shopping season, er, holiday season, is in full swing.

But it doesn't have to be expensive. In fact, with retailers expecting one of the worst holiday shopping seasons in decades, according to the National Retail Association Federation, shoppers can expect a slew of sales at stores in the days leading up to Christmas and Hanukkah.

Looking for a bargain but don't know where to start? Here are some local shopping destinations and tips to help you get the most for your dollar.

LONG BEACH OUTDOOR ANTIQUE AND COLLECTIBLE MARKET

>When: 5:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. the third Sunday of every month. Next on Dec. 21.

>Where: Veterans Stadium, 5000 E. Lew Davis St., Long Beach.

>Admission: $10 for early arrival, $5 after 6:30 a.m., free for children under 12.

>What you'll find: A lot. This 26-year-old flea market has been called one of the best in the United States. (It was named one of the top 10 flea markets in the U.S. by author and antique expert Harry Rinker and was listed in "The U.S. Flea Market Directory: A Guide to the Best Flea Markets in All 50 States," by Albert LaFarge.) With more than 800 dealers spread across 20 acres of retail space, expect to find a huge selection of antiques, novelties and collectibles. Bring your walking shoes.

>Information: (323) 655-5703, www.longbeachantiquemarket.com.

ROADIUM OPEN AIR MARKET >When: 7 a.m. to 4 p.m. daily.

>Where: 2500 Redondo Beach Blvd., Torrance.

>Admission: 50 cents to $1.25 per person, depending on the day; free for children under 5.

>What you'll find: A cornucopia of new and used items including toys, clothing, shoes, jewelry and fresh produce -- all for bargain prices. It's a long-standing South Bay tradition: Vendors have been selling their wares at the 15-acre Roadium market for more than 50 years.

>Information: (323) 321-3920, www.roadium.com.

CITADEL FACTORY STORES >When: Daily (hours vary by store).

>Where: 100 Citadel Drive, Los Angeles.

>What you'll find: Brand-name items at discount prices. Citadel is the closest outlet mall to Los Angeles and has more than 85 brand-name stores including Ann Taylor, Benetton, Calvin Klein, Converse, BCBG, Max Azaria, Maidenform, Nine West, Pacific Sunwear, Perfumania, Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Shoe Pavilion, Sunglass Hut, Tommy Hilfiger, Zales The Diamond Store Outlet and American Apparel.

>Information: (323) 888-1220, www.citadeloutlets.com.

SANTEE ALLEY IN THE FASHION DISTRICT

>When: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily.