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Extra freezer space comes at a cost, but it can help you save money in the long run.

Alina Bradford has been writing how-tos, tech articles and more for almost two decades. She currently writes for CNET's Smart Home Section, MTVNews' tech section and for Live Science's reference section. Follow her on Twitter.

I like to take advantage of sales on meats and vegetables and then freeze them to use later. Many times, I end up buying way more than my refrigerator freezer can hold. My fix? Getting a dedicated freezer.

The two basic choices for a standalone freezer are upright freezers or chest freezer. Here's how to decide which is best for you and what size you'll need.

This really comes down to personal preference and space. These two different appliances have pros and cons to consider before you go shopping.

Generally, chest and upright freezers are available in four size ranges. Compact units are 5 cubic feet and under, small units are 5 to 9 cubic feet, medium units are 12 to 18 cubic feet and large units are more than 18 cubic feet. 

To determine which size you need, multiply the number of people in your family by 2.5 cubic feet. The answer will tell you what size freezer you need. For example, my family of four needs a unit that is around 10 cubic feet.

If you really like to bargain shop or you have a hunter in the family, you may need more space. To give you an idea of food versus space, 1 cubic foot of freezer space will hold around 35 pounds of frozen food.

Pro tip: When measuring a space for either type of freezer, be sure to add at least an inch to the width accommodate air flow around the unit.