How do I get rid of moisture in my basement?

Well I want to make the basement my bedroom, I must admit that it would be quite awesome IF the moisture was gone. I don't want to move down there and then a month later have all my blankets, clothing, and little trinkets to get fuzzy, moldy, and just planed RUINED. I need a way to really get rid of the moisture and dampness for good that's INEXPENSIVE. I've thought of a de-humidifier but they're kind of on the pricey side. I need an inexpensive, effective solution.