You too can become an extreme couponer, if you want. I’ve never actually seen the television show Extreme Couponers, but then again, I’ve never been one for reality TV. That said, I find the idea of couponing to be fascinating, so I thought I’d write a brief (and by no means expert) tutorial on how to become one.
What is Extreme Couponing?
Extreme couponing is exactly what it sounds like, using coupons to get everyday products at really discount prices, and from what I understand about the show Extreme Couponers its also purchasing a ridiculous amount of those items, but that’s a different blog post for a different time!
People who coupon keep a keen eye open for those great discounts so they can save a buck (or a lot of bucks from what I hear), and it’s a pretty huge thing. Apparently, 96 percent of consumers use coupons (and 85 percent of Americans do too). So why not get in on the savings?
How to Get Started
Now that we have an idea, admittedly a little vague, about what couponing is how might one get started?
Start Collecting
The first step to couponing is to start collecting coupons, so take out that hard copy newspaper (pending you get one) or take a deep dive on the internet to see what kind of discounts you can get your hands on. Some great coupon-related websites to check out include:
Beyond that, some of your favorite retailers (like Target) often have great coupon deals. But, from what I read, some websites restrict the number of coupons that you can print per computer, so choose wisely!
Get Yourself Organized
Hardcore couponers suggest using binders or baseball card holders to organize your coupons. While this might seem extreme (it does a bit…) it makes sense if you consider those coupons are going to be hard to use if you can’t find them. So find yourself a great coupon organizing system, whatever works for you!
Do Your Research
Different stores have different coupon policies, so take some time to research who allows what. Stores like Target, for example, allow you to “stack” your coupons, meaning you can use more than one at a time (bingo for savings). And some stores, like Walmart, allow you to use unlimited coupons per transaction (at the discretion of management).
To do your research make sure you look at the fine print on the coupon, as well as checking up the different store policies online. Stores expect people to use their coupons (presumably, they are the ones that create them), so you should be able to find everything you need policy-wise with a little research.
Flex Those Patience Muscles
Good couponers, professional couponers if you will, know that good sales take patience. Why waste good coupons on a full-priced item when in a few weeks it’s going to come on sale. Great sales come about, but you have to keep your eye out for them if you want to make a real go at couponing.
Are you an avid couponer? What are your favorite tips?