My Coupon Philosphy

I have received a few emails this past week asking about the new TLC show Extreme Couponing.

I wanted to share some of my thoughts:

The show is a little much, yes I love a great deal like the next couponer, but these people are a excessive. Does one really need 100 boxes of pasta?? Unless you are planning to donate them, this is EXTREME. Hence the title of the show.

I like to be realistic when I shop and if I don't have a coupon, I probably wont buy the product. I will look for the best deals or buy the store brand if needed.

My 3 Rules of Couponing:

1. I don't just purchase an item because I have a coupon. I match the sales with store coupons as well as manufacture coupons. For example, a box of cereal might be $4.99. I will wait until the brand I like is Buy One Get One (BOGO) and then use my manufacture coupon as well. If you are new to couponing, you might think the $1 off is a great savings, but once you start using coupons with BOGO sales you will start shopping smarter.

2. It takes time. Time to clip coupons, make shopping lists and view weekly ads to find the best prices. If you don't have the time, you can still coupon- Remember a $1 off is better than paying FULL PRICE for that box of cereal.

3. Stockpiling. I always mention when I find a great deal that I stockpile, but I stockpile in moderation. I don't need 50 boxes of cereal, but 10 would work just fine. Products go on sale in cycles, usually every 3 months. This means I just need 3 months supply. Now you just need to figure out how many boxes of cereal your family eats in 3 months?

Hope these tips help you and good luck couponing..Enjoy!