Join in on the Jargon-fest
The next step is to get familiar with coupon lingo and policies. Are your coupons stackable? (Meaning you can use a manufacturer’s coupon in tandem with a store coupon.) Do stores in your area offer double coupon deals? (Meaning at certain times you can use a coupon and it’ll be worth twice its face value.)
Next, brush up on the acronyms. OYNO? MIR? BOGO? You need to learn terms like these in order to maximize savings. We’ll give you these three for free: On Your Next Order, Mail-in Rebate and Buy One Get One. But there are many more you may run across as you navigate the world of extreme couponing. Learn to talk the talk before you try to walk the walk.
You’ll also want to get a handle on pricing. A “sale” doesn’t always mean significant savings, so start keeping track of how much products typically sell for. There are also price-comparison Web sites which you can reference to tell whether you’re getting the best rate. With a little practice, you’ll get better at recognizing real savings.
Get Familiar with Navigating the Marketplace
You might want to dive into couponing headfirst, but easing in is probably the better route.
Start with a single store while you’re getting your feet wet; you can branch out later as you get used to bargain pricing and coupon policies. Find a couple of favorite cashiers to frequent who don’t mind the drill. Make sure to thank those cashiers and compliment them often. Warn people who get behind you in line that they may want to choose another aisle. Smile whenever a situation seems like it’s starting to sour.
The point is that it’s important to remember that while you’re learning an exciting and cost-saving new practice, other people are just trying to pick up a few things for dinner after a long day at work. Which reminds us of another tip: Avoid shopping during peak hours and trips to the store will tend to go a lot more smoothly.
Buy in Bulk
Extreme couponers don’t buy an item when they need it — they buy it when they can get it at the lowest price. These savvy shoppers then stock up when the going’s good (and cheap), so they save money in the long run. Think about it: if you run out of toilet paper, you’ll be stuck paying whatever the retailer is charging to get this much-needed essential. Extreme couponers, however, plan ahead by purchasing numerous rolls when the cost is low so they avoid such expensive emergency trips to the store.
If you buy in bulk, though, you need to have space to stockpile your reserve items. The free space available in your home may determine how “extreme” of a couponer you become. Only buy what you can fit in that extra pantry, closet or garage. Otherwise, your home itself might start to look like a supermarket!
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