Know the Policies
1. Learn one store at a time. Each is a little different in their policies, promotions, and reward systems. As soon as you get one store down, move on to the next. You’ll be familiar with a handful of stores and slashing your budget.
2. Obtain the store policy via internet and print it off with you and take it with you. Or request directly from store so it can also be on their letterhead.
3. Rain Checks- Make sure the coupons you plan to use on the Rain Check item won’t expire before the store restocks. Don’t bother getting a Rain Check for something that is also included in a Promotion like, UNLESS you know the Promotion extends beyond the sale date. The Rain Check is valid for the sale price only. You cannot get a Rain Check on clearance prices. When redeeming Rain Checks, be courteous of your checker. Let them know beforehand that you have a Rain Check; they will need to enter the amount manually.
Checkout Calmness
1. Be Organized- Make a plan of what you want to buy. Write down the items, the prices, and the quantities. If you are doing multiple transactions, separate the items into lists before ever leaving your house. If you’re organizing your coupons, unclipped, by date, now you’ll want to clip your coupons before heading to the store. Those who organize clipped coupons by category may also want to “pull” the coupons you plan to use. Place the coupons in an envelope or in an empty sheet protector at the front of your binder.
2. Non-Busy Times- early in the morning, early afternoon, or late at night is best time for couponing because there are no crowds.
3. Notification- Let the cashier know that you will be using coupons and make sure that they are able to handle if it is multiple transactions.
The Joy of Stockpiling
1. First off, stockpiling is not for everyone because sometimes you just dont have the space. So just stock on items that you use the most!!!
2. Couponing will be much more successful if you can buy whatever brand is cheapest. Everyone is allowed to stay brand loyal to a few items, but try to be open to trying other name brands.
3. With the current economy this isn’t too far-fetched for many of us, and a stockpile will help bridge the gap until a new job is found. On a happier note, having a variety of food on hand allows you to whip up a meal or treat just because you can. You’ll never be making those last minute dashes to the store for that one missing ingredient!
Stay Balanced and Focused
1. When people start couponing, they are excited about saving money and get carried away by going to every store on a weekly basis!
2. Remember, it’s best for you to learn one store at a time. The easiest way to choose a store is to pick what’s closest to your house. You’ll be going there often, so it makes sense to find a store nearby.
3. This is not the last time the product will be at a low price and it is ok not to use all your coupons!!!
Other Places to Save
1. Clothes- buy clothes when they are out of season for kids a size up or two.
2. Entertainment- I still get my books from the library because they are free. Redbox and Blockbuster Express movies are only $1 and they are always sending codes via text messages. Redbox even has games now.
3. Toys- Target & Kmart always have an clearance section especially after Christmas. Stock-up on Bday gifts
4. School Supplies- are best to get after school has started from almost any store
5. Charity- If you are a frequent shopper and your stockpile becomes to much or you just dont need certain things, donate to food banks, shelters and etc....
