Sometimes couponing can seem a little intimidating. I know if something seems too complicated I probably won’t stick with it. Here are five ways to keep things simple.
1. Clip coupons the day you get them and file them. They can very easily pile up to an uncontrollable mess.
2. I like to put the coupons in individual envelopes. I write the category on the front. I then put all the envelopes into a small coupon organizer.
3. When I’m going to the store I put the coupons I know I will be using in a separate envelope. You can even write your list on the back of the envelope! I also take along the organizer with the rest of the coupons just in case their is an unexpected sale or purchase.
4. When I’m making my grocery list I write a “C” next to each item that I have a coupon for. Try to use coupons on sale items only. This way you’ll get a better savings.
5. If clipping coupons the same day just isn’t feasible for you, keep them in their original bundles. On the spine of the first page it will say if it’s from Smart Source, RedPlum, or Procter& Gamble. Write the date on the top page of the bundle. Stack them in a plastic bin. There are several websites that have database coupon lists. They can be found at sites like couponmom.com or moneysavingmom.com. They will tell you when the coupon was published, when it expires, and the value. You can even search for coupons for certain items. If I know I’m going to the store for a certain item, I check before I go to see if there is a coupon.
I hope these are suggestions that will help you stay on top of your coupons. Don’t worry if you are not saving a ton of money at first. Every little bit helps. As time goes on and you have more practice you will save even more! Happy couponing!
Great tips on starting to coupon! I think starting is the hardest part, once the ball gets rolling, though, it can be hard to stop! I started a few years ago and haven’t been back since! 😀
What helpful suggestions. I also put “C” by the grocery items on my list when I have a coupon for those things. I am very guilty of letting my coupons pile up. I’ll have to get right on it as you suggest.
I find everything about couponing to be so overwhelming!! My 13 year old daughter has gotten into it, though and we’ve found some great savings:) Good post, I’ve not seen it put so simply and easily before!
I have a cool app on my phone that tells me the best sale prices in the state, and then I price match with it. Couple that with a few coupons and I get great savings!
Some great reasons you mentioned. We have been couponing for a couple of years now and cant imagine going back to just regular shopping.
So many people are turning to couponing because of the economy. Thanks for sharing 5 simple ways someone can get started.
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Great tips. I too add a “C” to the item on my list that has a coupon. I need to clean out my coupon bag and clip & toss. I have been on a long break from couponing. Time to get back on it.
I’ve tried but never seem to stick with it… I guess I should try again 🙂
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I had plans to get into couponing, but it was just too time consuming for me. Your post has some great tips for anyone thinking about getting into it!
Thanks for the tips. I really must brush off my coupon folder and get back to couponing. Really need more organization with my coupon stash too!
You make it a very simple process, so much so that it’s not even intimidating.
Thank you for sharing this.
Peace and good to you.
I have seen a lot of couponing sites today and I feel like I am being repetitive. While I like coupons, I only use them for what our family uses. We have so many chemical sensitivies that I need to be very choosey. My husband hates coupons but loves saving money. Yeah, I know, but don’t ask!? 🙂
great ideas I have used some of them but there were a few I had not thought of before.
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Greta post! It seems to be the getting started that keeps me from using them like I could. I just need to make a routine of it. That seems to work for me.
When I started couponing, I cut out every coupon thinking that I might miss a deal (even if it was something I would never use). It became so overwhelming that I stopped clipping them all together. I think that your tip to clip them right away- but only the ones I would use- would be very helpful.
I started, now I’m off the coupon wagon, but wanting to get back on. Great post.
Great ideas, thanks! It seems couponing has taken on a life of its own!
It’s so important to stay on top of organizing and clipping! Thanks for the great reminders!
I need to start clipping them the day I get them. IT seems like I’m clipping for hours when I finally sit down and begin.
I like couponing, but still have my times of coupon failure for one reason or another. Thanks for the tips. It’s always great to learn!
Thanks for the easy tips. You are right, they can pile up fast! I know, I have a pile in my basement 😉
This is the easiest and most practical approach to couponing that I’ve seen yet. Thanks very much. Deb
I have a file coupon holder. And a separate grocery list. When I plan my trip I also put a C by the item if I know I have a coupon – and I paperclip all my coupons to the list. I bring the rest of the coupons just in case I see something on a good sale!
Great tips. I put mine in a binder but I really need to be better at number one and clip those things on Sunday before the craziness of the week begins.
I LOVE #4! That will be extremely helpful when 1.) I remember to bring my coupon, and 2.) I’m constantly thinking, do I have a coupon for this? My biggest problem is remembering to bring the coupons. Any tips for that? ha!
This is great! I haven’t yet started couponing, but I definitely plan to and will keep these tips handy!
I’ve started baby steps into couponing and am trying to stick with it! Thanks for the advice about organizing and simplifying it. I like your idea of writing a C next to things that have a coupon that I’ll buy. I’ll be back for more!
These are wonderful tips. I love that they are easy to follow!
Good tips…however, since I am super busy I don’t clip my coupons at all until I am planning a trip. And since my stores are close to home, anything great I see in the store that I know I have coupons for, I just make a note and go back for. NOT having all my coupons saves me money sometimes because I won’t impulse buy just because I have a coupon with me. And not clipping them saves me tons of stress, because inevitably you will get behind in clipppig.
I always try to clip coupons the day I get them! I love to use them, but going through a huge stack to clip is such a pain!
Great tips! Subscribing to blogs that do matchups is a must!
These are great tips. I am always trying to find time to clip coupons when I initially get them so that is a good tip. Sometimes waiting can create a mess of finding a coupon you need.
Staying organized with coupons is the only way i can make it work.
Nice tips! I have issues with keeping mine organized.
I need to get back to couponing. I need any extra cash I can get a hold of to pay down my credit card debt.