To a new and old couponers alike, the thrill of the "hunt and kill" ignites a euphoria that really can't be described. But where do you draw the line? How do you know if a deal is worth pursuing?
If you are not careful, before you know it, your pantry is overflowing with the dry pasta that you got for 10 cents a box when you are on a no-pasta diet! Of course, you can always donate the items, but how do you avoid stocking up on things you will never use? How do you resist the urge to get your hands on every deal?
After all, the purpose of using coupons is to save money - not spend a little bit of money on a lot of things you do not need. A little bit of money on a lot of things can add up quickly!
Here are some guidelines to follow to help you decide if going for the deal is really worth it:
1. ASSESS THE NEED
This seems to be the most obvious . There is nothing better than scanning an ad and realizing that an item you are needing is on sale and you have a coupon that will make it nearly free. But do you really need it? Were you thinking about buying this item before you saw it on sale? Have you used this item in the past couple of months or can you see yourself using it in the next couple of months? If you do not have a direct need for an item, if you can not see yourself using it in the next months to a year then you can probably pass on getting it.
2. IS IT WORTH YOUR TIME - AND GAS?
This may not be so obvious. It is easy to get so caught up in chasing a good deal that you are doing just that - chasing. I have to admit that I have gotten in my car and driven MILES to find a free item. Being honest, I probably spent more money in gas than it would have cost to just pay full price for the item! You also have to take into account your time. Yes, couponing can be timely but is the item you are seeking worth spending an hour or so store-hopping to find it? Your time - and gas - is valuable and should always be considered along with the price of the item you are thinking of buying.
3. PASS ON A SALE
I often have to resist the urge to be the first in line at every sale. Seeing a sale sign can make your heart beat faster with excitement. You have to realize that just because something is on sale, does not mean you have to get it! Also, sales usually come in cycles. For example, over the summer grill seasonings would go on sale and be free with a coupon almost every three weeks. If you miss a sale, there is a great chance that you will catch it at a later time. You do not have to stock up on an item during every sale cycle. It is OK to pass on a sale!
4. LET THE COUPON EXPIRE
Just because you have a coupon for something, does not mean you have to use it! This is the easiest way to over-spend on things you do not need! If you are not going to use a coupon, pass it on to a friend or family member who might be able to use it. You can also send your valid and/or expired coupons to military families. Stores on military bases usually accept expired coupons.
It is easy to get caught up in the thrill of the chase but it is important to assess your need for the item, the value of your time and to realize that you do not have to get every deal. Take this advice and you can minimize making purchases that are unnecessary and avoid stocking up on items you will never use.
Happy Shopping!
