It may seem old-fashioned, but a great way to save money when times are tight is to clip coupons. It takes some strategic planning, but finding and using coupons correctly can save you hundreds of dollars.
Plot Your Strategy
When using coupons, it can be easy to fall into the trap of buying an item you would usually not use. First, plan – decide what you need to buy for the next week or month. Create a menu plan and a shopping list that includes both the staples and perishables you might need.
Research Your Shopping
Once you have a solid shopping list, get a copy of the local Sunday paper or go online. Find out which stores are having sales, and make notes of the best prices. Lay out your shopping trip for the best combination of traveling distance and prices – if you drive to many stores, you can use up whatever cost savings coupons offer you.
Study Coupons
Once you know what items you need 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. Many corporations and small businesses offer a coupon in exchange for signing up for their email newsletter. There are also many coupon clearinghouse websites. Some websites offer free coupons, others ask for between 10 and 50 cents. Be certain to make note of expiration dates and limitations.
Double-down your savings
Once you have coupons and sales that match your shopping list, start matching them together. Get better prices for items by matching store sales with available manufacturer’s coupons. If a store offers a 50 cent off coupon, match it with another 50 cent off coupon from the manufacturer. Save even more money by matching coupons with one another.
Flexibility is important
There are times that you truly will find killer deals on an item you may not have on your shopping list. If this happens, make sure you will actually use whatever the item is. Be willing to alter your shopping list to match whatever you will use that is on special that week. One very helpful tactic is to keep a month-long list of meals, then cross them off as you go.
Take yourself shopping
Once you’ve got your coupons and your game plan, it’s time to go shopping. Keep your eyes open for club card deals, in-store coupons, and unadvertised specials. Keep a file of coupons on you, so you can double-down coupons in the future. More importantly, try to make sure your impulse purchases are kept to a minimum. It won’t help save any money on your list if you purchase items you don’t need.
It may take extra time and effort, but clipping coupons can save you extra money. Just be sure to plan, to research, and to be flexible.
