Leveling options for bumpy basement floor
Leveling compound really is the way to go with this job, are there any tricks to save money on doing it - I am sure there might be. But it is always cheaper to do it right the first time than to do it right the second time.

This is the area where most people make the mistakes : COSTS.
To do something right costs this much and they don't want to spend the money, so they do it wrong, later they have issues and wish they had done it right - some then ask a pro to come in and do it right (More money) others tear up what they have and do it right the second time (More money). Then you have the others who simply sell the house to an unsuspecting soul and go their way, possibly to make the same mistake in their new home and never learning this simple rule..

Cheaper to do it right the first time than to do it right the second time.

I know it will cost you up front, but in the long run it will be cheaper both in terms of laying your flooring and having it right. You could even put heating elements under the plank if you were so inclined.