Couponing has been a time-tested money saving strategy since the day coupons came to existence. There’s no denying how much one can benefit from them. Serious coupon users can testify to the worth of each of those coupons given directly by product manufacturers. But do you ever wonder why despite your couponing habit you still do not recognize the savings you get? If you aren’t making any savings at all, here’s a reflection that you must contemplate into.
#1 Clipping Coupons and Keep Them Disorganized
Okay, you’re really into coupon clipping. You have gathered all the sources; piled up the newspapers, collected magazines, and spent so much time on the internet. Now, where are those coupons? Perhaps some are at your laundry, some at your kitchen, some at your desk and some at your sofa. They’re just EVERYWHERE! Don’t “keep” those coupons everywhere in hopes you’ll remember them when needed. Bear in mind that those pieces of papers are money in disguised. Treat them the way you keep-safe your money. Have a purse, envelop, or an empty box for them and store them safely and in an organized manner.
#2 Inconsistency of Using Coupons
Obviously you wouldn’t recognize any savings when you are inconsistent on clipping and using those discount tickets. You don’t feel the pleasure every after purchase when you only got to save $1 a month on your 2 coupons. When you plan to save big, be consistent on your coupon hunt and coupon use. If you’re an avid soda drinker, go over the internet then print those limitless soda coupons you can find. Organize them by date so the next time you’re heading to the grocery store, you’ll enjoy great savings while you indulge into your favorite drink. Having to mention “avid” means that you frequently purchase soda, and with that, you will frequently reap the savings out of those coupons as well. At the end of the year, you’ll just be amazed how much savings you made.
#3 Disregarding Coupon Policies
While some stores are strict on their coupon policies, others are generous enough to let you maximize the discounts. In fact, some stores allow you to use two coupons on one item. Before taking advantage of the face value of your discount tickets, always ask the store staff about their existing coupon policy. You might just reap more than what you are expecting.
#4 Not Paying Attention to Store Sales
Consider coupon as just one piece of the pie. Yes, you can be discounted with the items you plan to purchase but you will enjoy greater discounts when you maximize their use. Combining the coupons with store bargain prices is definitely a treat to your pocket. You might look for stores that double or triple the face value of your coupons. Cliché as it may sound but knowledge (indeed) is power!
#5 Being an Impulsive Shopper
Do not be a reckless shopper, especially without discount cards. Always plan ahead your grocery trips. It makes sense to list down all the must buy household supplies. Then look after the coupons you have collected and match them to the listed items. Bring out those that matched the list and when you have ample time, look for coupons that feature the remaining items on your list.
Inappropriate use of coupons will still give you no savings, regardless of how many you have on hand. Creativity and knowledge of coupon use will increase your chance to achieve the savings that you desire.