Adventures in Couponing: Take 1

Today I did went on my first real couponing excursion. It was terrifying!

I can spend $400 easy in one shopping trip. I never really go in with a plan, and with my little boy, we always end up leaving the store with much more than I anticipated. I do always have a coupon or 2, but I never really made an effort to shop the sales, or with any sort of a plan, so my savings never really amassed to much.

Today however, was very much planned. I bought a Sunday paper 2 weeks ago, and another one last Sunday, and I plan to grab another tomorrow. Maybe I’ll subscribe and pick up 2 at a time, but for now, I just want to get my feet wet, and do some practicing.

I think I did pretty well for my first trip. I only got basics that needed restocking. I didn’t get everything on my list, and forgot to get a rain check for a few things that were out of stock, but overall, I’m content.

Today I only went to the grocery store. New sales start tomorrow, so I’m taking inventory to determine what we need from Target, CVS and Walgreens.

I’ve never been to CVS before and I’ve never purchased anything from Walgreens other than candy so I have to get their rewards card, and see how this goes. I hear CVS is the place to clean up, especially with their extra bucks…I’m totally up for getting things for free.

I’m feeling pretty good though. I spent $163.92 and saved a total of $54.29. It was my first time, so I’d call that a success. Plus the little catalina spit out 2 more coupons for my enjoyment next time.

Do you coupon? If so, do you have any tips for a noobie? I'd love to hear from you!

Talk to you in the next one!