Coupons have come a long way. If you need proof, just check out the hit TV show, Extreme Couponers, in which devotees sometimes slash 100% of their grocery bills thanks to coupons. Of course you can still find coupons in the newspaper (with the majority showing up in the thick Sunday paper.) But today's savvy shoppers take advantage of other coupon sources to maximize their savings. Here are few of the best places to find coupons.
- Product Packages
Before you discard that plastic wrapper, can, or carton check it for coupons. Often manufacturers will print coupons right on their product labels to keep their loyal customers coming back.
- Grocery Stores
Before you discard your grocery receipt, check the back of it for coupons. Often, local merchants pay to have special offers printed right on the back of your receipt. Many grocery stores also automatically print out coupons at the register based on your purchases that day.
- Product and Store Websites
Most manufacturers offer printable coupons and special offers on their websites for customers to take advantage of. Many manufacturer and store web sites (including grocery manufacturers, apparel manufacturers, sporting goods stores, and toy stores) encourage customers to sign up for e-mail alerts to receive coupons directly in their inboxes. Restaurants also provide similar offers. Before you head out to buy anything, log on to your computer and do a quick search. You'll probably find savings of some kind or another.
- Coupon Websites
There are many websites that are solely dedicated to helping consumers save money by passing on online coupon codes or printable coupons. Retail Me Not, Coupon Cabin, and Red Plum are just a few examples.
- Visitor's Centers
Coupons aren't just for groceries. You can save money on hotels, car rentals, museums, and restaurants. One of the best places to pick up deals is at visitor center. Local businesses know tourists like to stop and pick up maps and use the restroom in these places and they often leave brochures for their businesses that include enticing coupons to persuade you to visit.
Coupons are everywhere. If you are serious about saving money, you just need to look around for the right deals. A little bit of research will go a long way toward lowering not only your grocery bill, but also your other expenses, like clothing, restaurants, gifts, car rentals, hotels, and more.
