I've been a big fan of coupons. I don't go crazy using them. I really try to stick to what I like and occasionally using them to try something new.
I know there's tons of buzz about "extreme couponing" thanks to that show by the same name on TLC. People are trading coupons, buying extra newspapers, asking friends and businesses for extra copies, etc. But would you steal newspapers to get coupons? Some people apparently are, according to a story in USA Today. Click link for story.
I have bought an extra copy of a Sunday paper if the coupons are just awesome and I know I can more than offset the cost of the paper with the savings. I can't imagine walking through a neighborhood picking up newspapers or grabbing more than one paper from a newspaper rack.
I guess I'm not extreme. But I feel as though I save plenty. Here are my main rules about saving with coupons:
1. Clip only what you really use and keep coupons organized in a way that works for you. Why waste your time clipping items you don't like just because you get a dollar off? On organization: If you can't find it, you can't use it.
2. Am I buying it for the savings thrill? If you are only buying something because there's a 50 cent coupon that's being matched at the grocery store where it's on sale but you don't really use the product (end up not liking it; realize it doesn't coincide with healthy habits), then you aren't saving money.
3. If it requires me to buy in bulk, is the money saved worth it? That is, will I be stressed by too much stuff in my pantry (or if it oozes into other parts of the house)? And will I be able to use it all before the expiration date? Also, will I end up discovering it after it expires because I have too much in my pantry?
4. Am I putting too much processed food in my children's bellies? Essentially, is the "savings" worth the cost to our health? Healthy eating means adding more fresh foods, and those don't typically come with coupons.
I do love coupons. I just choose to be picky about them.
Cheers!
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