Here are tips to start using coupons for your grocery shopping.
#1 Gather the coupons
Newspapers, magazines and even trade journals are great places to find coupons. You can ask your family and friends to give their own copies so that you will have more coupon sources. You should also check in with online printable coupons as well as promo codes on online sites; be on the sites’ emailing lists and browse the sites regularly.
#2 Become familiar with the lingo
You should take the time to become familiar with the wide range of coupon terms, such as MIR, BOGO and OYNO. The more familiar you are, the better your coupon-related decisions will be.
You should also become familiar with the pricing strategies instead of being taken in by marketing terms, such as “sale” or “50% off”, since these can be deceiving. Make it a habit to make price comparisons using online sites dedicated to the purpose before making your purchasing decisions.
#3 Organize your stack
Don’t let your coupons sit inside your drawers. You have to organize them so that you can use the coupons at the most opportune times and, thus, enjoy substantial savings on your grocery bill.
Tip: Use sheet protectors in binders to organize the coupons. Organize based on product category or on expiration date, depending on the type that suits your needs best.
#4 Start using
Keep in mind that you will have plenty of trial and error experience when using coupons but just keep at it. You will soon get the hang of it with practice.
And don’t buy what you don’t need or will not use because then you are wasting money.