A decade ago, most shoppers clipped the occasional coupon that afforded them a whopping 15-cent discount on creamed corn or toilet tissue. These days, however, couponing has become a way of life for many. If you want to get the most from your couponing adventures, read on, and learn the ins and outs of successful couponing.
Have a good understanding of the policies in place at your favorite stores, especially their coupon policy. Find out if certain stores accept outdated coupons, double coupons, or do anything of the sort. Not knowing each store’s policy can put you in a bad position when you are at the checkout line trying to purchase a bunch of items.
Keep your coupon organizer up to date. At least monthly, you should go through your stock and toss any expired coupons. If you wish, you can donate the coupons to overseas military families. Coupons can be used for several months after their expiration dates, so even if you cannot use them, they could.
When you are at the checkout stand, make sure your coupons are scanned in correctly. It is surprisingly common for coupons to fail to scan, either because of a problem with the coupon itself or because of a problem on the store’s end. Keep a close eye on your cashier as he or she scans your coupons and check out the screen so that you ensure your coupons are going through.
Know the coupon rules. A good way to save money is when stores put out double coupons. You can save twice as much money when these coupons are available. However, there are usually restrictions to use so it’s best that you know ahead of time before you go and try to use it.
When you enter any store check the front to see if you can find their weekly paper. In their weekly paper, a lot of shops will offer you coupons inside of them to help entice you to purchase more things at their store. This can work in your favor, and you can find a lot of items for cheap through their coupons.
If you particularly like a certain company or brand, make sure you put that on Facebook and “like” it. If you like a company on their social networking page, it can make you eligible for special savings. Often times you will get a card for frequent buyers or shoppers at a store.
Try contacting the manufacturer directly. If there is a product that you love, but don’t often find coupons for, try contacting the company directly. Express your enthusiasm for their products and ask if they have any coupons available. Who knows? You may score some great deals on a brand you really love!
If your Sunday paper has a great coupon circular, buy more than one copy. The cost of the paper is often less than the savings the coupons offer if they are for items or brands that your family regularly uses. In addition to buying extra copies, you can also ask your friends or family members for their copies.
Make sure you buy only what you need and have room for; don’t go overboard. If you have extra coupons you cannot use, give them to a friend.
Always have your coupons available. The truth is, you never know when you might need to stop and pick something up while you are out. By keeping your coupons either in your vehicle or in your bag, you will always have them readily available should the need to shop arise.
Having a coupon saving plan by organizing everything. A lot of people who save money with coupons are extremely organized. Get yourself a folder and start marking down all the different coupons you have and placing them in there. Make sure you pay attention to the expiring dates so you don’t miss out on those wonderful sales!
Print coupons from the Internet. There are many websites that offer manufacturers coupons for you to print and use at many different stores. Sometimes the manufacturer’s website even has printable coupons you can use. Different stores have different policies regarding printed coupons so be sure to check your store’s policy.
You need to wisely utilize your time. Couponing requires effort. Dedication and consistency are important to being successful. Take part of your lunch hour or a few minutes before bedtime each day to clip some coupons. Tweak your existing schedule.
Try and find any hidden costs that maybe associated when using a coupon. A coupon for $5 off some Chinese food for example may seem like a good deal until you discover that there is a delivery charge you have to pay, not to mention the fact that you must also pay a tip.
Have the coupon policy for your favorite stores on hand when you shop. If a cashier tries to go up against you about stacking coupons or the number of coupons, you are allowed to use, having the policy can help you to get out of the situation and save the money you deserve to save.
Watch how your cashier is scanning your coupons carefully. Anyone can make a mistake, and that mistake can cost you money. You should ensure you get all of the discounts you deserve.
As mentioned, couponing has become a serious endeavor. To get the most out of your time and efforts, however, you need a few good tips and tricks to help you out. Now that you have the information you need, you are all set to head out and save some serious money.