It’s odd these days to see a working family that’s not on a food budget.
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| Image by CatJB |
The main family shopper is always searching for ways to cut back on the amount of money spent on food. But we still want to feed our families decent foods. One way to do this is by using coupons.
But are there coupons for 'healthy' foods? Yes, there are, though not always as many as there are for the more processed types of foods. Be selective and look for coupons that suit your way of eating.
At a conservative estimate, there are millions of coupons circulating every day that could cut your food budget by 30 to 50% - even more if you’re willing to turn couponing into a passion. Although this does depend somewhat on where you live, coupons are not all that common in Australia for example.
But even the casual coupon clipper can become quite successful overnight and with more work and dedication become a super saver shopper. You need to learn patience, flexibility and perhaps to give up your favorite brand, but it can be done and you can save a lot of money.
Remember, coupons are designed to sell a certain product and get you in the store, but if the item is not one you need and use, then you are NOT saving money by buying it, even at it's reduced price.
Food coupons can be found in many places. The Sunday newspaper is usually the best source but also look on line, at public libraries and check flyers that come in the mail. Some stores issue coupons at checkout for use on your next trip. Be sure and note expiration dates and if a cash value is offered. Don’t let them expire and go to waste.
Organize yourself before you shop. A binder can be a great way of keeping your clipped coupons in order. Or try keeping them sorted by food type in an easy to search through container and match coupons with needs on your grocery list. Some coupons may have mail in rebates. Look out for this and be sure to follow up.
This coupon binder system has everything you need for super saver couponing.
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| Coupon Binder available on Amazon. |
Sign up for a store loyalty card if one is offered, these usually offer coupons plus bonus points that are cumulative each time you shop. Using a store’s own credit card can lead to double points and free item coupons. Check your receipt for any offers that may be on it and check the back too.
When you combine regular coupons with sale prices, you’re becoming a super saver. If a coupon item is not on sale and it’s not something you need urgently, try to wait until it’s on sale.Always be on the lookout for sale and two-for-one deals.
Compare advertisements. It may pay you to drive to more than one store if it’s an item you need, have a coupon and it’s not available anywhere else. But, before you burn up extra gas, ask if the store honors its competitor’s coupons. Many will do this just to keep you in the store. You can call ahead to save a trip or check out their policy over the web.
Don’t be sucked into the 2 for a dollar marketing ploy, unless it’s to your advantage with a coupon. If you need two of the item go ahead and buy them; but you can save by buying only one if that’s what you actually need. For example, the sign may read: 15 limes for a dollar. Unless you’re a big lime user, some could go bad before you use them.
There was a time when some shoppers felt using coupons was not appreciated by the grocer and hesitated to use them. Occasionally, this will still be the case, you may come across a new employee at the store who is unfamiliar with coupons and needs to call management for help, creating delays for other customers.
But in general, it’s a faster and easier method now with computers. Some of these strategies may not be right for you. It takes practice and patience, trial and error.
If stretching your food dollar is your goal, make the most of using coupons.
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