Getting started with coupons

Starting out can be very overwhelming especially if you watch shows like Extreme Couponing. One thing to remember is that EC is a TV show and as such will do what they need to ensure ratings. Now I will readily admit I like EC. Sure there are some bad points on the show (like shelf clearing) but there are good tips too if you pay attention. Some of the things I've learned are to pay attention to the wording on my coupons and how to better organize my coupons and my stock pile.

When your couponing it is important to not be to brand loyal. For example with love Planters peanut butter but if I can get a great deal on Skippy then that's what I'm gonna buy. If it's a product or brand that you just don't like and won't use don't buy it. The only time I will buy something i don't use is if it's free or a money maker and I can donate it to someone who will use it.

Find a way to organize your coupons that works best for you. Like many others I use a binder with baseball card sheets. This way I can take all my coupons to the store with me everytime I go. You never know what will be on clearance and yes you can use coupons on clearance items.

Start out small and don't try to hit every single sale there is. If you try for every thing you will get burned out fast. Myself when I started out I stocked up on health and beauty items since they seemed to be the easiest to get a great deal on. Once I was comfortable with couponing I started getting more and more different items.

Remember too that you don't have to hit every store that has a deal you want. Save yourself some gas and time and take your shopping list to Walmart where they price match other stores lowest advertised prices. You don't even have to take the ads you want to price match with you! Walmart has made it easy with their price match policy. I would suggest printing this policy and keeping it with you. Walmart is a big company and like any big company not everybody that works there knows every single rule.