It may seem old-fashioned, but a great way to save money when times are tight is to clip coupons. By carefully planning, you can save yourself hundreds of dollars while finding and using coupons correctly.
Plan Your Method
One of the traps of using coupons is that many people end up buying items they normally would not. The first step is to decide what items you need to purchase for the next week or month. Create a menu plan and a shopping list that includes both the staples and perishables you might need.
Investigate Your List
Now that you’ve got a solid shopping list, get a copy of the newspaper or go online. Find out which stores are running sales and specials, and make notes of who is offering the best prices. Plot out your trip plan for the best prices and fewest store visits – if you drive to many stores, your fuel costs could use up all your savings.
Study Available Coupons
Once you know what items you need and have a good idea for where they are on sale, start researching coupons. The internet can be one of the best sources for coupons, next to your local newspaper. Signing up for an email newsletter from a company will often get you an emailed coupon. Multiple websites also act as coupon clearinghouse services. You can find coupons for free on some websites, though the best coupons often cost between 10 and 50 cents. It is important that you make note of limitations or expiration dates.
Double down to increase your savings
Once you have both coupons and sales that match your shopping list, you can start matching them together. Get a better price on a two-for-one sale by also using a manufacturer’s coupon. When a store offers a coupon, you can often match it with another coupon from the manufacturer . The more coupons you can match up, the more money you can save.
Be flexible
There are times that you really will find a great deal on an item you may not have on your shopping list. If you find an amazing deal, you should make sure you will actually use the item. Be willing to alter your list to include whatever is on special that you will use. One very helpful tactic is to keep a month-long plan of meals, and just cross them off as you go.
Take your planning out shopping
Once your coupons and your plan are organized, it’s time to go shopping. It is important to keep your eyes open for unadvertised specials and in-store coupons. Keep coupons in a file with you so you can double-down in the future. More importantly, try to make sure your impulse purchases are kept to a minimum. It doesn’t save money on your list if you purchase a lot of items you don’t need.
While it may take extra time and effort, clipping coupons can save you extra money. Just be sure to plan, to research, and to be flexible.
