TV shows like TLC's Extreme Couponing - not to mention the stagnant economy - have made couponing a growing trend among families looking to get the most bang for their bucks. I always considered myself a smart shopper, and I have used coupons when convenient. But after attending a "Living Rich with Coupons" Workshop given by Cindy Livesey, creator of livingrichwithcoupons.com, I realized there is more to couponing than a casual perusal of your weekly newspaper inserts.
Here's a quick crash course on what you need to know about couponing:
- Get to know the stores you shop in. Understand their coupon policy - particularly the double coupon policy and join their loyalty program for special coupons and rewards. If you have young children, enroll in the store's Baby Program if it's available. For example, Shoprite has a Baby Bucks program where you can get $10 off your next shopping trip after spending $100 on eligible baby items like diapers and wipes.
- Depending on how often you consume the product, get multiple coupons for the same product. You can do this in a number of different ways, but I find the easiest ways are: buying more than one weekly newspaper that has coupon inserts; swapping inserts with neighbors, families and friends; and printing e-coupons from sites like Cellfire or from individual stores or manufacturers (you can print up to 2 per computer).
- "Stack" your coupons. Buy items when they are on sale and use a store coupon and a manufacturer's coupon to get the best deal. (Note: not all sales are the same. Compare prices of items in different stores - some may have better deals on certain products like diapers than others.)
- Stockpile (not to be confused with hoarding!): Have a three month's supply of items bought at rock bottom prices. This is where having multiple coupons for the same product comes in handy!
- Be organized. Plan your shopping trips in advance, make a list of what to buy, and have your coupons ready (or easily available using a coupon organizer of some sort). Take advantage of coupon sites like livingrichwithcoupons.com and thekrazycouponlady.com to identify items on sale and organize your coupons.
- Be patient! At first, you'll be spending the same amount or a little more, but you're also getting more items. It takes at least 3-4 months (the time it takes to stockpile items you need) to begin to see real savings in your weekly grocery bills.
The "Living Rich with Coupons" Workshop was sponsored by Mothers & More of Bergen County.
