Before We Get Started: Helpful Tips

There are a few tips I offer new couponers:

1) Your first trip to the grocery store with coupons will only be a few items from the coupon list and many items from their regular shopping list. You are buying what you need and buying the sale items with coupons. As time progresses, your shopping trips will include more sale items with coupons as your needed items have been puchased on sale. ( I hope this makes sense). Your first trip is not likely going to be 90% savings. Do not get discouraged during this phase. Eventually, you will achieve this amount of savings.

2) You are not going to clip coupons until we need them. If you do not know how to file, you may want to become familiar with this task. You are going to need file folders!!!

3) Let's face it, you have been buying the same items for years. Using coupons and buying sale items will give you the opportunity to think "outside the box" and try new or different items. You will have items that you will not compromise on brand; however, you will try different brands on other items.

4) Invest in a printer that has refillable cartridges or a printer with inexpensive refill cartridges. There are alot of printable coupons available online.

5) Obtain another email account. You will need to register on various sites to receive coupon offers. You will receive hundreds of offers. Please do not use your personal email account.

6) If you do not have a separate freezer, you may want to begin the search for a energy efficient freezer. Try craigslist and garage or estate sales before you buy retail.

7) More tips to come :)