Extreme couponing allows people to save hundreds of dollars each week, and some even come out ahead at the grocery store. Savvy shoppers have stockpiles of items — so much so, they can literally go “shopping” in their own homes. If you love couponing then you know how it is an ideal way of saving money as well as having extra items on hand. Whether it’s toothpaste or shampoo — if it’s inexpensive (or sometimes free) why not take advantage of the lower cost?
Using coupons are a great way to save money, but if you are really into coupons and cutting costs, then you most likely have a lot of coupons and organizing them may be difficult. Here are a few tips on how to organize your coupons easily and efficiently.
Use a Binder
Binders are an easy way to organize your coupons, and you do not have to buy an expensive one. Find binders in the school aisle or some even use a photo album, which is usually affordably found.
You are then able to set your coupons up by date, category or alphabetical order.
Your binder goes with you to the store, and you simply browse through it for the coupons you need. To save time, browse ahead of time and remove the coupons you need after making a list.
No-Clip Method
This method saves time initially, since you only clip the coupons you need when you need them. The caveat to that is that when you are ready to use a specific coupon, you have to be sure to be able to locate it easily. The no-clip method works for some people, but keep in mind that if you are at the store and want to access a coupon, it is more easily found in a binder. This method depends on whether you wish to save time before or during your shopping experience.
People who do use this method will keep their coupons intact in the insert and then search by date when it is time to use the coupon.
Coupon Database
A coupon database is different than collecting your own coupons. How it works is that you find a database such as Couponing 101, which has a list of printable coupons or specific inserts that you need in order to take advantage of the savings. This helps save time by knowing what coupons give you the best deals. You still have to clip the coupons out of your inserts once you find what you are looking for, but it saves time by not just randomly clipping them.
A Few Tips
- Make sure to purge your old and expired coupons.
- Be aware of expiration dates so you don’t miss out.
- Find out store rules before you shop.
- Check out online sites that direct you to big savings like Krazy Koupon Lady.
Other Savings
If you are coupon-savvy, then you most likely want to save money in others areas of your life. A dental savings plan is a good way of saving your family money and finding the best dental insurance alternative.
Ask anyone and most people will tell you that saving money is important, no matter what their income demographic. Besides, saving money is smart and makes you more aware of your finances.
