It's always a good time to review some basic tricks that coupon pros use. Read on for six ways you can save like an extreme couponer.
1. Start Small
Don't try to go extreme all at once. Take it step by step, rather than show up at a checkout with 50 coupons and little idea what you're doing.
2. Never Pay For Coupons
There are some things in this life you just shouldn't pay for, and a coupon is one of them. Paying someone to clip or organize your coupons defeats the purpose of living frugally. Instead, surf Sunday newspaper ad supplements for coupon savings; ask your neighbors for their unwanted papers; or dive inside a recycled dumpster or two. Also, free online coupon sites like CouponSherpa.com give consumers access to a multitude of coupon codes and printable coupons for thousands of merchants.
3. Get Organized
A little organization can go a long way. Always create a shopping list and have your coupons and shopping strategy organized before you even enter the store. Use an expandable coupon binder to sort coupon inserts by date, categories and expiration dates. Transfer to a small couponizer only those you'll need for a specific shopping trip.
4. Location, Location, Location
Where you shop is a key factor in making the best use of your time and coupons. Only shop at locations that allow coupon stacking and combining coupons with in-store offers. Don't be afraid to call and ask about policies before you show up. You don't want to wind up embarrassed at the checkout line with a handful of useless coupons.
5. Loyalty Rewards
Always take advantage of club membership rewards. These programs are usually free and have many savings perks, like rewards points, cash back programs, and double points for every certain amount you spend.
6. Don't Be Greedy
This is often where extreme couponers cross over into the world of hoarding. Only shop for items you actually need, products you can stock up on that aren't perishable, and those you can donate. Remember, a bargain is only a bargain if you can actually use the purchase. If your pantry has expanded into your living room and the kids are sleeping on rolls of toilet paper, you've probably reached hoarder status.
LET ME PICK YOUR BRAIN!
Do you consider yourself an extreme couponer? If so, do you have any tips you'd like to share with everyone?
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Originally posted 2011-04-11 00:01:55. Republished by Blog Post Promoter
3 Responses to Are You an Extreme Couponer? Here’s 6 Ways to Save Like a Pro!
denise Says:
I am a couponer, not sure if I’d say Extreme. We do not hoard but we do stockpile. We do not stockpile items we wont use. If we picked up items we wont use because there was overage, then we will donate the item. I don’t care if items are free or a great deal, I will not get more than my family can eat in a year or before expiration. Things do expire and they do get stale. I’d seen some shows with families smaller than mine, stockpile extremely large amounts of cereal. Are they eating all of that? While we do et cereal, we also eat cooked breakfasts as well as fruit, etc.
My tips:
1) Do not clear the shelves.
2) Have a plan. When we step into the store, we know what we are getting and have those q’s ready. If there are “extra” savings, such as a $5 off $50, then we will split orders up for added savings.
I welcome questions! Feel free to get in touch with me.
Dense
Extreme Personal Measures
Melissa @ Mommy Living the Life of Riley! Says:
Hi Denise,
Great tips! That was the trouble I got into there for a while…I would clear the shelves and end up with a house full of groceries and five year’s supply of toilet paper lying around! LOL! Thanks so much for stopping by my blog. Have a wonderful day!
rohan {at } 365 things to do in dc Says:
I’m a beginner couponer, so always cool to run across more tips. In the past I would shop all willly nilly without a care in the world. It’s funny how a thing like getting laid off changes your entire perspective.
Awesome blog!
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