Introduction
Extreme couponing is a popular way to save money on groceries and other items. It involves using a combination of coupons, store discounts, and sales to purchase items at greatly reduced prices. Many shoppers have successfully used this method to get hundreds of dollars’ worth of items for only a fraction of their usual cost. To get started with extreme couponing, you’ll need to do some research, create a budget, and develop an organizational system for your coupons.
Research the Best Coupon Websites and Apps to Join
The first step in extreme couponing is to find reliable sources for coupons. Signing up for coupon websites and apps is a great way to stay informed about current deals and discounts. Some of the most popular coupon sites include Coupons.com, RetailMeNot, Groupon, and Shopular. Each site has its own advantages and disadvantages, so it’s important to compare them before deciding which one is right for you.
Coupons.com is one of the most comprehensive coupon sites available. It offers a wide selection of printable and digital coupons from a variety of retailers. The website also features helpful articles and videos that explain how to use coupons correctly. However, some users report that the site can be difficult to navigate and that the coupons are not always up-to-date.
RetailMeNot is another popular coupon website. It offers a large selection of digital coupons for online and in-store purchases. The website also includes helpful reviews and ratings from other customers, which can make it easier to decide whether or not to use a particular coupon. The downside is that many of the coupons found on RetailMeNot are only valid for a limited time.
Groupon is a great source for finding discounts on activities and services. The website offers a variety of coupons for restaurants, spas, movie theaters, and more. Groupon also sends out daily emails to alert customers about new deals. However, some users complain that the coupons are often expired or no longer valid.
Finally, Shopular is a mobile app that provides users with real-time notifications when they are near stores that offer discounts. The app also features reviews and ratings from other shoppers, making it easier to decide which deals are worth taking advantage of. One downside is that the app only works in select cities.
Create a Budget and Stick to It
Once you’ve chosen which coupon websites and apps you want to join, it’s time to create a budget. You should establish a limit for how much you’re willing to spend on coupons each month. This will help you stay within your spending limits and avoid going overboard with your coupon purchases.
It’s also important to set a limit for the number of items you will buy with your coupons. You don’t want to end up with too much of any one item, as you may end up wasting money if you can’t use it all before it expires.
Learn Couponing Terminology and Strategies
Before you start clipping coupons, it’s important to understand the common terms and abbreviations associated with couponing. For example, BOGO stands for “buy one, get one” and is a type of discount offered by some stores. Another common term is MIR, which stands for “mail-in rebate” and refers to a type of discount where customers receive a refund after submitting proof of purchase.
In addition to understanding the terminology, it’s also important to learn strategies for maximizing savings. For example, some stores offer double or triple coupon days, where customers can use two or three coupons for the same item. Other stores may offer discounts for buying in bulk. Knowing these strategies can help you save even more money.
Start Collecting Coupons from Newspapers, Magazines, and Online Sources
Now that you know the basics of extreme couponing, it’s time to start collecting coupons. There are several different sources for coupons, including newspapers, magazines, and online sources. When collecting coupons, it’s important to read the fine print to make sure that you’re getting the best deal.
Newspapers are a great source for coupons, especially on Sundays. Many newspapers also have special coupon inserts that feature additional discounts. Magazines are another great source, as they often contain coupons for food, clothing, and other items. Finally, there are numerous online sources for coupons, such as coupon websites, manufacturer websites, and social media pages.
When collecting coupons, it’s important to be organized. Create a filing system that makes it easy to keep track of expiration dates and other important details. You should also consider setting aside a specific day each week to clip coupons and sort through your collection.
Contact Your Local Grocery Stores to Find Out What Kind of Deals They Offer for Extreme Couponing
Grocery stores often have their own policies and programs for extreme couponing. Contact your local stores to find out what kind of deals they offer. Many stores have loyalty programs that provide additional discounts and rewards. Additionally, some stores may offer special promotions for extreme couponers. Knowing what kind of deals are available can help you save even more.
Create a System for Organizing and Filing Coupons
Organization is key when it comes to extreme couponing. Develop a system for filing and organizing your coupons. This can help you quickly find the coupons you need when you’re shopping. Consider using a binder with dividers for each category, or create a spreadsheet with details about each coupon, such as expiration date and store restrictions.
It’s also important to keep track of expiration dates. Make sure to check your coupons regularly and discard any that have expired. This will help you avoid wasting money on expired coupons.
Conclusion
Extreme couponing can be a great way to save money on groceries and other items. To get started, do some research to find the best coupon websites and apps to join. Create a budget and stick to it, and take the time to learn the terminology and strategies associated with extreme couponing. Then, start collecting coupons from newspapers, magazines, and online sources. Contact your local grocery stores to find out what kind of deals they offer for extreme couponers. Finally, create a system for organizing and filing your coupons so you can easily find them when you’re shopping.
By following these steps, you’ll be well on your way to becoming an extreme couponer. With a little bit of effort and dedication, you can save hundreds of dollars on your monthly grocery bill.
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