We have all read the amazing success stories of Extreme Couponers.  You know – the ones who pay $0.50 for $10 worth of groceries.  I get insanely jealous when I read these stories – how I would kill to have that grocery bill.   

I’ll admit, stories like that are what inspired me to start using coupons again.  But, I realized, I am not a Super Couponer.  Oh, I can find a great deal – and am always hunting for one.   I don’t buy 6 copies of the Sunday paper and I don’t go to Wal-Green’s to buy 20 tubes of toothpaste.  I tried, and I am not that girl.  But, that is ok, because I still am saving my family money!  

I think that more people would use coupons, but when you read these stories, it tends to get overwhelming.  To the point where people give up.  What you don’t realize is that most of these women have been doing this for awhile, and have a system in place.  They can take $20 and stock up on broth one day and diapers the next.  If you just started using coupons again and need 2 weeks worth of groceries – this tatic is not going to get you very far.  

I have dramatically reduced my grocery budget in the last year.  At one time, we were paying $150 a week for groceries for a family of 5.  I have reduced that to $150 every two weeks for groceries.   But, you would be surprised at just how simply I achieved this. 

My first step was to PLAN.  I know, I know….hear the words menu plan and your brain shuts down.  But, seriously folks, it is a very key step in saving you some money at the store.  When I walk into any store without a list – I walk out with a serious case of buyer’s remorse and a large receipt.  

Use your store’s sale ad to make your plan.  For instance, let’s say that beef broth is on sale this week.  Two meals on my menu right off the bat will be Beef Stew and Beef & Noodles.  Make the most of ingredients that you are getting on sale. 

Once your list is made, check it against your coupons.  Even if you follow a deal blog for your store, check the coupon database as well.  I use Hot Coupon World and Coupon Mom.  Go through your grocery list and look for coupons for the items on your list.  The databases will tell you if there is one in an insert or a printable, hangtag, mailer, etc.  This process is a little time consuming but is worth the effort.  

These are small changes to make in your grocery buying routine that will show you instant savings.  Simplicity is the key when beginning your coupon adventure. Start small and work your way into a system that works for you and your family.