For the past several years I've wanted to learn how to use coupons to save us money. This is something that completely confuses me. I just don't get it!
I've read articles, seen tv shows, & heard stories about how to use coupons. That still doesn't seem to help. We even got the newspaper for about a years while we lived in Salt Lake City thinking there would be coupons that I could learn how to use. Pretty much the only "coupon-like" things there were, were the weekly notices from the grocery stores. It wasn't coupons, it was just the weekly sales. I've heard stories about being able to double coupon things, but in order to have that work I need coupons. I'm not sure exactly what to do.
If any of you have any websites that could help me, or books, or anything like that please let me know!
4 months ago
4 comments:
For the most part coupons have been replaced by the online deals. The internet has definitely changed the way bargain shopping is done.
For groceries, buying in bulk at Costco seems to be an easy way to save money. Purchase one of those Foodsavers vacuum sealers and your bulk food should last longer. Even though your not technically clipping a coupon, your still saving the money.
When buying stuff online ALWAYS google for coupon codes for the website. I have found 10% and 20% coupons after searching for about 5 minutes.
Be careful at stores like Costco though, sometimes even though its bulk, its not as cheap as Smiths.
I agree with Travis. Coupons were never for items and/or brands that I actually used. Usually the store brands were cheaper than the name brand items even with a double coupons. (Of course, I haven't lived in a metropolitan area with big stores for over thirty years, so that makes a difference - no choice.) Also, remember that if you have to go to six or seven stores just for the bargains, you aren't really saving any money.
If you belong to Costco, do use their coupons that come in the mail. I try to plan my list and trips around them. (But, remember you only save money if you buy only the things you need. Costco is one *dangerous* store. lol)
If you don't belong to Costco, the basic membership can pay for itself after purchasing just a couple bags of dog food and some laundry detergent. (Costco's meat is generally more expensive than the local grocery store.)
Oh, and check out the Foodsavers vacuum sealer and bags from Costco. The last time I looked the "bag material" was half the cost of what Wal-Mart was charging.
Sorry this is so long, but one more thing. If you don't belong to Costco or know anyone that you can go with and want to check it out, stop at the service desk and ask for a day pass. Take a debit card. :)
Chelsea, here is the link to the post I wrote about saving money on groceries. Don't know if it will help or not. Just a thought. Sue http://somuchfabric.blogspot.com/search/label/finances
good luck with this - I'm not good with coupons either.
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