Switching brands depending on store sales and coupon availability is probably the best way to save. For example, this week Puffs tissues are on sale at my local store, and I have coupons that match the sale product providing a double savings. But, I also have coupons for Kleenex and Scott tissues since I feel the quality is about the same. So when those products go on sale I’ll still get a double savings with my accumulated coupons. But what of those products we won’t switch.

Brand Loyalty is certainly possible when couponing or refunding. My family loves Honey Nut Cheerios, and there’s no substitute for them. My strategy: wait for the Honey Nuts to go on sale, save the coupons, and buy the item in quantity. I may have 3 or 4 boxes in my pantry, all gotten at a great deal, and with coupons.

Use your judgment when it comes to shopping, but always make it fun and a challenge. Never let it overwhelm you.

When I started refunding and couponing in 1973, everything was a hard copy, no internet. But I’ve gotten used to this new phenomenon and I love it. Printable coupon and refund offers are available all of the time offering cash back, free coupons and oh so much more. Be adventurous, try the web site of your favorite manufacturer: a couple of my favorites are: www.colgate.com, and www.kelloggs.com. Go to the Refundle Bundle Bulletin Board, www.refundlebundle.com and check for daily postings of great offers, and list some of your own.

Sharing with others increases our ability to save. And saving is the name of the game. So start today.

Having a favorite market doesn’t preclude me from checking all the local stores sales’ flyers. I have and do switch markets when I can match the double coupon offer, as well as great sales, and a reasonable amount of driving time. The easiest way to check a flyer is the same category method I mentioned earlier. Flyers, like the supermarket, are separated by categories:

• dairy
• frozen
• household
• health & beauty aids …….

A look at specific categories helps me compare prices easily on the items I use most. That basic principle will determine my supermarket of the week.

My next criteria for choosing a market is overall store sales. The store I prefer, A&P, starts their weekly sales on Friday, and has extra special sales from Friday to Monday. I make up my list according to the sales and the coupons I have. I also get extra coupons from the Sunday insert. The inserts almost always have coupons that match the current sales. And of course I stockpile coupons from www.selectcouponclub.com. Since I try to get to the market during the 4-day sale period, I prepare my list as soon as possible. I keep the list and my coupons together so I’m prepared and don’t have to rush at the last moment.

Using this technique, I’m guaranteed to save 20-40% off my weekly bill.