Stockpiling

I've heard of Extreme Couponing where an entire garage is filled with paper goods or detergents or boxed goods. This technique is known as Stockpiling. Generally all the items were purchased on sale and with coupons.

I love that concept, but not the use of my garage to store 5 years worth of product. My motto is everything should be done with common sense.

I use the same concept of buying items on sale and combining the purchase with a matching coupon; and I will often buy in quantity. But I put the entire purchase in prospective and buy that amount that I can comfortably store.

In addition, I know that all sales are repeated in some form or another. For example last week Brawny paper towels were on sale, this week it's Viva, and next week it might be Bounty. I keep the coupons from every brand, and depending on the value of the sale, I make my purchase.

You'll probably notice, I show no brand loyalty most of the time. I like all these brands and my choice depends on how much I can save.

This same concept is true for cereals, boxed items, detergents, dish washers, canned goods, pastas, and more. Today I bought General Mills cereal on sale 2 boxes for $5. Using a $.75 coupon, doubled on each box ($1.50 off each), my final cost was $1 per box. Next week Kellogg's cereal might be the brand advertised and I can do the same.

I haven't paid full price for any of these items for years, but extreme stockpiling doesn't mean I'll save more. I'm sure I'm getting the best price available by shopping wisely.

I never have to stock up and sacrifice freshness. I stock up to get a great deal and keep a decent supply on hand.

It's important to note all sales and coupons are cyclical. There is a constant repetition of sales. In each category, each week items are promoted. Keeping that in mind, you'll always get a category of item on sale.

Watch your store flyers and watch 3 or 4 categories of products over a period of 6 weeks. You'll be able to come to the same conclusion.

Everyone can make their own determination. You can make your own. I hope my suggestions will guide you too.

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