For all of you who are into serious couponing, I have a question.
How do you decide when to use a good coupon and when to keep it?
And what is the target price you pay for cereal, toothpaste, deodorant, etc.? What is the number I should aim for?
I ask because this was the first week I actually was able to get some things for free or super cheap.
For instance, I got 3 deodorants and 2 tubes of toothpaste for free stacking sales/coupon. But, I opted to use a couple of additional coupons because I thought they were good deals even though they weren't free.
For instance: bought 2 more deodorants (dif. brand), and two more tubes of toothpaste, and after coupon/sales paid 50 cents each. Should I have held out for a future sale hoping to get them for free? Or was it a good move to use that coupons and pay a nominal amount?
I also bought a body wash, reg. $4.99, on sale for $2.99 and I had a $1 coupon, so $1.99. This isn't super cheap, but it's cheaper than the brand I would have normally bought. Any thoughts?
I'm new at this and trying to figure out the strategy.
I also got a catalina for $1.50, and at the same time got coupon for $2 off four of that item for future purchase. I bought four more, used the $2 coupon plus the catalina, then got another $1.50 catalina at checkout. I use the stuff. It wasn't super cheap. Cost $8 for four- $3.50 = $4.50 - another $1.50 off= $3.00. Is that good? Is that the approach I should be taking?
Coupon Question...
February 5th, 2011 at 03:30 pm
February 5th, 2011 at 07:32 pm 1296934328
Personally, I can usually get toothpaste, deoderant, and shampoo for free or close to it, betweem double coupons, deals at CVS, Walgreens, and Rite-Aid, and manufacturer rebates. (Look for Renpure Organix shampoo now - they have a "Try Me Free" rebate hangtag. Check out the Saving Advice Forums, under "Free" there's a list that links a bunch of active rebates. Good luck!
February 6th, 2011 at 01:33 am 1296956021
As far as knowing when to use the coupons, that can be tricky, after awhile when you know the general price of things and how often the sales come, you will get a better feel. My rule of thumb is if it's free or cheaper than I've ever seen it, buy it now. If it's still a little high, wait, especially if I already have several.
Here's my rule of thumb on a few basics
cereal - .50/box 10 - 14 oz
peanut butter - .50/jar 16 - 18 oz
soup - .25 - 50/can
pasta - free - .25
rice - free - .75
canned tomatoes - < .25/can
tuna - free - .25
canned veggies - < .40/can
paper towels - < .50/roll
oatmeal - < .50 18 oz
chicken broth - .25 - .40 can
February 6th, 2011 at 03:13 am 1296961989
Right now, I'm trying to build up my stock pile. I have gotten a few things for free, but am trying not to feel too bad if I'm not saving huge bucks on stuff I do really need now. I know in times, it will become easier.
February 6th, 2011 at 05:08 am 1296968894
February 6th, 2011 at 05:41 am 1296970919
February 6th, 2011 at 07:15 pm 1297019748
Walmart is probably not as big here as it is elsewhere, and I wish someone would give Roundy's some competition. I usually buy produce at the farmer's market or the "expensive" chain--which actually has better produce values.
February 7th, 2011 at 04:02 am 1297051323