Coupons for Groceries: Clipping Tips to Minimize the Hassle

Grocery store coupon clipping is overwhelming, period. Does the weekly savings make it worth the time and frustration? Well, according to several savings mavens the answer is a definite yes!

I agree with them, but I admit I feel intimidated by all of it. For example, I returned from vacation recently and fell off the coupon clipping wagon. My favorite store changed their coupon policy, I learned there were loadable coupons and I still have not figured out how to use Cellfire.

This sent me on a quest to minimize the hassle.

Depending on family size, annual savings could easily average at $500 or more. Plus, other fellow coupon clippers take it a step further and donate to the local food bank or buy for the rest of their family.

Erin from Coupon Cravings suggests: "cutting and printing out coupons for items you buy frequently at first. Then really study the weekly grocery ads to get a good feel for prices."

Sounds good right but first things first.

Get connected

Follow your favorite or the top savings blogs and brands. Research where to find the best coupons for products you purchase.

Get equipped

The essential tools of the trade

• Shopping list, watch
• Calculator
• Pen or Pencil
• Coupons
• Recyclable Bags

Save now

Stop paying full price for these items:

• Cereal
• Toiletries
• Hair Care and beauty
  
• Vitamins
  
• Cleaning products
  
• Kitchen supplies

Find yourself getting lost by confusing store advertising, Jess of This Frugal Life blog advises:

"Balance is key, and most deals will almost always come around again in a few weeks so there's no reason to get discouraged if you miss out the first time around."

Bottom line, with an increase in manufacturer coupons in 2009 and redemption on the rise, it's time to start cashing in.

Determine your local grocery store's sale cycles and keep track of those coupons. Savings of $50-$75 per shopping trip is well worth the time and energy.