Did you know that the average American household spends over $400 on groceries each month?
If you’re tired of throwing away all your hard-earned money on essentials, then you might be wondering how you can become a smart shopper. While clipping coupons does take time, you’ll be amazed by how much money you can save over time.
Are you interested in learning about what it takes to become the best couponer? Keep reading for five steps that will help you build your savings.
1. Start Collecting Coupons (But Be Selective)
While you’re searching for coupons, it’s important to check multiple sources. Local newspapers, store flyers, coupon websites, and apps can all have great deals. You can discover more here.
It can be hard to resist tempting deals, but remember to only clip coupons for items that you will actually use. You need to be wise about how you spend your time.
2. Keep Your Coupons Organized
With so many coupons all over the place, it’s always a good idea to get a binder so you can stay organized. The first step should be organizing each coupon by store so you’ll have an easy selection whenever you go out shopping.
Then you can break down your coupons by items in case you find duplicates that can be stacked.
3. Understand the Couponing Rules for Each Store
Every store has a different policy when it comes to couponing, so make sure you investigate these rules before you ring up all your items. Not only could this lead to embarrassment, but you can also put your cashier in an uncomfortable or stressful situation.
Some of the best store deals are BOGOs. If you can manage to find a manufacturer’s coupon to stack with this store deal, then you’ll walk away with both items for free.
4. Be Prepared to Buy in Bulk
Often, the deals for the best consumer products are all about buying in bulk. If you don’t have enough storage space in your home, then don’t commit to these coupons.
Many couponers find closet space or they build shelves in their garages to fit all of their finds.
5. Use Apps That Reward You
If you’re going through all the trouble to coupon, then you might as well get rewarded for your efforts. In addition to landing great deals, there are plenty of apps that give you points for every purchase.
Downloading apps like Ibotta and scanning your receipt will give you even more money.
Are You Ready to Become the Best Couponer?
Learning how to become the best couponer isn’t as difficult as one might suspect. As long as you have some extra time and you enjoy the thrill of the hunt, then you can make magic with coupons.
Being a couponer is just one of the many strategies you can use to cut your monthly expenses. If you’d like to know other ways you can take charge of your personal finance, our site has all the information you need to succeed. Click around our blog so you can work on building your savings.
