I’ve been couponing for a few years now. I’ve had a few people ask me to teach them how to coupon. When they go to make that first trip themselves I’ve often heard that they feel nervous, maybe the forgot some coupons at home, forgot to grab one of the deals they went for, or had an issue at the register and just gave up. Here’s some ways to simplify your coupon trips to make them go smooth and get the most enjoyment out of saving money.
1. Start a coupon binder
It does not have to be fancy. A simple plastic three ring binder will suffice. Make sure there is at least one big pocket on the inside (I’ll tell you why soon) Get some coupon sleeves. You can search for them online or simply buy the clear baseball card sleeves. Dividers are helpful too so you can divide your coupons into sections that work for you. I personally have a baby section for things like diapers, baby wash, diaper cream etc. I have a cleaning section for well…cleaning products, a breakfast section for things like cereal, coffee, bacon, etc. Set it up how ever you want, whatever works for you. Take it with you wherever you go. You never know when you might find a deal
2. Get a 3 ring binder zipper pouch and fill it with these things
Fill that zipper pouch with: a small notepad for your shopping list, a pair of kid safe scissors (you don’t want sharp scissors poking a hole in your bag), a pen, a couple paper clips.
3. Keep the up to date sales papers in that pocket I mentioned in your binder
You can circle deals your interested in. It’s also good to have it so if a price doesn’t ring up right you can double check it with the cashier or customer service to make it right or see where you may have gone wrong.
4. Plan your shop before you go
That notebook and pen in your zipper pouch. Write out a list of everything you want to buy. Write down name brands and quantities if you’re looking for very specific deals. I personally like to write down which coupons to use too. Once you have your list written out, go through your coupons and match your coupons to your list. Use a paperclip and clip them to your list so you don’t forget to use them.
5. Start off with small trips
There are a lot of great coupon bloggers that do awesome coupon matches for all kinds of stores. You can also do it yourself by looking at your stores’s sale papers and matching it up with your coupons. Pick out a couple really great deals and just go to get those. Do a couple trips like that until you get the hang of it. When you feel comfortable start doing bigger trips.
6. If possible, shop alone
I’m a mom of 4 myself, I get it, it doesn’t always happen or maybe once in a blue moon. If you have the opportunity to go alone your first few times you might find it easier to concentrate on matching the coupons to the deals, finding the correct sizes, and locating the sale products. Plus I know my kids try to talk me into buying things not on the list and I sometimes give in.
7. Don’t go on an empty stomach
This could be true for any grocery shopping trip. I know I tend to throw a few more convenience foods in my cart if If I feel like I haven’t eaten all day!
What do you do to simplify the your life?
I love to coupon, and those are all great tips! You’re right that it’s harder to concentrate with your kids around, so mine have learned when I’m checking out to just put the bags in the cart and let me concentrate on the prices, ensuring I get the deals.