While it may seem a little old-fashioned, clipping coupons is a great way to save money when times are tight. It takes some strategic planning, but finding and using coupons correctly can save you hundreds of dollars.
Plan Out Your Strategy
Many people end up purchasing items they would not normally use, only because they have a coupon. The first step is to decide what items you need to purchase for the next week or month. Create a menu plan – then from that plan, a shopping list that includes everything you might need.
Scrutinize Your List
Once you know what you’re shopping for, get a copy of the local Sunday paper or go online. Find out what stores are having sales or are offering the best prices. Plan your shopping trip for the best prices and least traveling distance – you don’t want to spend the money you save on fuel.
Analyze Coupons
Once you know what items you need and have a good idea for where they are on sale, start researching what coupons are available. The internet can be one of the best sources for coupons, next to your local newspaper. When you sign up for company email newsletters, they will often send you coupons. There are many websites that offer coupon clearinghouse services. You can find coupons for free on some websites, though the best coupons often cost between 10 and 50 cents. Be sure that you make note of expiration dates and limitations.
Doubling your savings
Once you have a list of the coupons and the sales that match your shopping list, start matching them up with one another. Get better prices for items by matching store sales with available manufacturer’s coupons. If there is a store coupon, you can often match it with another manufacturer’s coupon. The more coupons you can match up, the more money you can save.
Being flexible is most important
There may be a time when you really do find a great deal on items not on your list. If you do find a great deal, make sure you will actually use whatever the item is. Be open to changing your list if you find an item on special that you will use. It is often very helpful to keep a month-long plan of meals you would like to make, and just cross them off as you go.
Go shopping with yourself
Get your coupons and your plan organized, and then it’s time to go shopping. While you are out shopping, it’s important to keep your eyes open for unadvertised specials. Keep a file with you so you can file away in-store coupons for future doubling-down. Most importantly, make sure to keep your impulse purchases to a minimum. You won’t save any money if you end up buying a lot of items that aren’t on your list.
Clipping coupons can take extra time and effort – but in the end, the money you could save is worth it. . Just be sure to plan, to research, and to be flexible.
