Just for Beginners

I’ve gotten a few calls and emails over the past few weeks from friends who have never couponed and are wondering how in the world to do this “couponing thing.” If you want to start couponing but you just don’t “get it” or feel overwhelmed. I encourage you to read through my Coupon 101 section. You can also follow these basic steps.

1. Start with 1 store. If you usually do the majority of your shopping at HEB or Kroger or even Walmart. Just keep doing that. Start by making a grocery list. Tell yourself that you will not buy anything that isn’t on the list. This will save you from impulse buys where you don’t have a coupon. I find it is easiest to make a list when you plan your dinners in advance but you don’t have to. I find it takes me about 5-10 minutes to take inventory and come up with a list.

2. Now go to Slickdeals coupon database HERE. See if there are any internet printable coupons that match the items on your list. Keep in mind that if you usually buy store brand products, there may be a the comprable name brand coupon available that would make it cheaper than store brand. Print the coupon and take it to the store. You might be surprised.  The database is alphabetized so it should be easy to sift through. Keep in mind that you are matching your list to available coupons, not finding coupons of products to add to your list. This will keep you from buying things you don’t need or wouldn’t have otherwise used just because there was a coupon. Depending on your list and the number of coupons available, this could take 5-20 minutes.

3. Check the newspaper inserts for more coupons. There are a variety of ways to organize. For new people starting with only one store. I would encourage you to clip coupons on Sunday of products that you buy regularly: Yogurt, bread, lunch meat, diapers, your favorite cereal, etc. File them in an accordian file. My Couponing 101 has my suggestion for sections. This will take 5-10 minutes

4. Save the rest of the unclipped coupons in a folder. In teeny tiny print on the spine it will say the name and date of the insert. When I (or another blog) list a great bargain at your store, we always list what insert it came from. Then if you are interested in taking advantage, you can find the exact insert and clip that one coupon out.

5. Put all the coupons that correspond to your shop in an envelope. Put it with/in your wallet so you won’t forget! Now you’re ready to hit the store. Your shop should go faster since you made a list. You may spend a few extra minutes checking to see if your coupon makes a name brand cheaper than the store brand. It usually takes no more than 5 additional minutes.

For less than 1 hour a week, you can start saving. Plus you’ll become more familiar with the process without becoming overwhelmed. Once you feel comfortable you can add more stores. And if you want to make it even easier, join The Grocery Game.

Let me know how you are doing. If you have questions, you can email me and I’m happy to help.