In a time of economic turmoil, high gas prices and record employment rates, we find ourselves looking to save every dollar possible. If we had the time and effort to be the extreme couponers on “TLC”, everybody could have hundreds of boxes of mac-n-cheese or closets full of toilet paper. The show makes it look possible, but really not plausible for the average person or family. However, there are ways to enjoy some discounts without putting in 40-hour weeks going dumpster diving or cutting out tons of coupons to keep your pocketbook full. Whether it is for a date, a new toy, or an essential item of everyday life, I have provided a few traditional and unconventional methods to avoid paying full price at all costs the next time you are out.
The traditional paper coupon:
For those in the audience who still read the newspaper, you are well aware of the abnormal weight of the Sunday newspaper. If not, it is much heavier with a ton of coupons and savings opportunities for the next week or upcoming season. You can typically find coupons or specials advertised in your student newspaper. Not only will you catch up on the current events throughout your campus, but you can also find your local businesses advertising their drink and food specials directly at you. Beyond newspapers, your daily mail will contain a plethora of junk mail inserts; take a few seconds to grab the ones that matter to you.
Digital Coupons:
While we have not moved to completely paperless society as some predicted, we often utilize the internet to bring all information to our fingertips. Why not do the same with coupons? A little time and effort in front of your computer screen will definitely pay off before you head to the mall, grocery store or out to a meal. The first question is: What are your plans? If you are not sure, then you can use sites like Valpak, FreeCoupons and other similar sites to navigate through coupons to paint a better picture of your shopping needs. You can also look in the “freebie” section to see what offers might entice you to visit a store. An example can be found here, which is just in time for the holidays. This article is already saving you money!
The more popular websites currently trending on the internet are Groupon and LivingSocial. Both websites have new deals for attractions in your area. It has discounts for hotels, restaurants, spas, family outings, and local attractions. The idea is to purchase these daily deals through these websites at a discounted rate, and the establishment will honor the offer you purchased. For example, yesterday I paid $10 for a $20 gift certificate at MK’s Sushi in Fort Worth, Texas. I saved $10 to visit a place I wanted to try while in the Metroplex area. There are obviously some catches to these sites: the normal expiration dates, limitations and restrictions. It is nothing really to be worried about, but reading the fine print is always important before you purchase.
Facebook & Twitter:
Pick your favorite local establishment and “Like” them on Facebook or follow its Twitter account. More often than not, the places you frequent have small specials they broadcast through social media. All you have to do is mention their special and they will take care of the rest. It works extraordinarily well with places that are not national chains. I learned this trick while visiting Bowling Green, Ky. at a lunch rendezvous with a local alumnus in the area. His coupon cut the price of our meals in half.
Black Friday & Promotional Codes:
Christmas is right around the corner and the holiday pandemonium is upon us. Whether you brave the long lines or get on the internet to make your holiday purchases, I recommend using BlackFriday or DealNews to plan for your Christmas gifts. Both sites offer you the up-to-date news on deals in stores and online items for purchase. If you will be internet shopping, it is always helpful to use these sites to save a little extra before you check out. If you have ever purchased something online, you will notice a “Promotional Code/Offer” on your total screen. Typically, there is a word or phrase that you can enter to receive free shipping, 10% off, or other savings. Doing so will give you a different total if the code is honored. These sites provide those codes and the success rates of using them. The higher percentage rate, the more likely it will work.
Jenny’s Number:
The most unconventional way to save a dollar was presented to me while checking out at a Kroger in Kansas. I was not a member to receive the in-store prices, so the checkout attendant told me to use the phone number 867-5309 - yes, like the song. So figure out the area code you are in and next time you do not want to sign up for the membership card but want the savings, use the phone number - apparently it works nearly everywhere.
As the holiday season inches closer and closer, you can take these ideas into consideration and use them to your advantage. Maybe this will spark your interest to becoming a regular extreme coupon enthusiast or at bare minimum save you a few dollars the next time you are looking to spend your money. Happy Holidays!
Matt Munoz (University of North Dakota, 2010) is a chapter consultant for Delta Tau Delta Fraternity.
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