seeking advice from the experts

[sahala123]

I have a lot to learn but am really interested in learning how to maximize my savings using coupons. Is there an expert "extreme couponer" who can advise me on the best strategies to employ to maximize savings? Here are a few of my questions?

How many newspaper subscriptions do I need?
Do I buy coupons on-line and, if so, what's the best source?
Is there a place where I go to find information on advance sales coming up in grocery stores?
Has anyone ever done a comparison of the deals you can get from the coupons to the deals found at a large wholesaler, i.e., Sam's Club/Wal-Marts, Costco, etc.?

Do I need to write the manufacturer to get the best coupons?

I'm sure there are lots of other questions I'm not thinking of --your help is much appreciated.

I have a family of five and we're really eager to cut down on our grocery bill so we can get out of debt faster.

thanks----

[~~Who,Me?~~]

I would say to answer all of your questions, you've come to the right spot. Everything you're looking for is on hotcouponworld, just take some time to learn the site. Find your stores, pick one or two to start with so it's not overwhelming.

To start, I would go to couponing basics. And with Sunday inserts plus what's available online to print, that's enough to get started. No need to worry about writing to companies.

[pasharain]

I wouldn't call myself an "extreme couponer," but I don't do bad in the savings department. I saved over $13 grand last year using coupons.

How many newspaper subscriptions do I need?
Do I buy coupons on-line and, if so, what's the best source?

I personally only have one subscription and here is why. . .I find that my savings is maximized by channeling the money I would spend on papers into "buying" multiple copies of specific coupons. Also, because coupon values vary by region, this method saves me more. For example, I may only get a $.50/1 on Product X in my paper, but another area of the country may have received $1/1 on that same product. By buying the coupons rather than the paper I am assured of getting the highest value coupon out there.





This can be done in several ways.

• Join the Trader in Training group here on HCW and start trading in our forums. In the Trades forum you are allowed 5 "ads" at any given time, wherein you can place "in search of" type coupon ads and also offer up your extra coupons that you won't be usings. There is a link in the bottom right of my siggie if you are interested in getting started.
• eBay. eBay is coupon heaven. Chances are if you use it there is a package of 10-20 coupons for it for a buck or two. Hot coupons can be pricier on eBay however. Just be sure to check the seller's feedback before buying.
• Coupon Clipping Services. HCW is partnered with a few of them and they can be an excellent source as well. Much like eBay you pay a fee for multiple copies of a coupon.
• Use Google to your advantage. Need a product? Type the name of the product and the words "printable coupon" in the search box and many time you will get a pleasant surpise.
• Also visit the manufacturer's websites and Facebook pages, many of they have printable coupons available.

Is there a place where I go to find information on advance sales coming up in grocery stores?

Yes. Check out our Store Forums for the stores you shop. Many have previews of the upcoming sales, coupon matchups (matching available coupons to the sale items), weekly deals, printable coupons and, best of all, other shoppers that can offer you advice. The store forums are a community effort, the more participation the better they are--so feel free to post the deals you find.

Has anyone ever done a comparison of the deals you can get from the coupons to the deals found at a large wholesaler, i.e., Sam's Club/Wal-Marts, Costco, etc.? ?

Yes, this has been discussed over and over. The bottom line, they are not usually cheaper. I personally only use Sam's and the like for things which I cannot find anywhere else or if there is simply no coupon available for the item in question.

I do maintain a Sam's Membership, however, because I like the quality of their meat in my area and the gas is cheaper.

Do I need to write the manufacturer to get the best coupons?

If you have the time, it is not a bad idea. In fact, we always have a Contacting Companies challenge here on the board. Rather than writing, however, try calling or emailing and save on stamps!

I hope that helps!

Ashley

[amylynne01]

I just got a membership to a club store (BJs) because I had a coupon for a free 2 month trial LOL. I found a couple things that were cheaper there, but for the most part, I do much better using drug stores and my local grocery stores. Plus my BJs is 30 minutes away, so not much savings there. But my DH works right next door to it, and they have a gas station that is $0.15 than anywhere else, so that's good for us.