With all of these shows on TV I am really interested in learning to coupon more. These are the things that I have learned along the way.

How do you get things for free?
Wait until the item goes on sale and then use the coupon that you have. Don't just use the coupon when they immediately come out in the paper.

Every week look at the local circulars, the front and back pages are usually where the door buster type deals are listed. See what you want and then match it up with a coupon. Things go on sale approximately every three months, if you have the space, then you can stock up on things when they are on sale.

For toothpaste, deodorant, shampoo if a coupon is 50 cents and your store doubles (or better yet, triples) the face value of the coupon, you can get a trial size for a $1 and that will make it free.

Stacking
Some stores like Target print their own coupons. You can generally stack (i.e. combine) one store coupon with one manufacturer coupon.

Catalinas
These are the things that print out with your register tape from your receipt. Sometimes there will be $ off coupons, or free coupons that will print out.

Coupon system
I keep them in a zip lock bag, other people make binders with categories. Do what works for you.

Secrets
If an item is on sale as a buy one get one free - and if you have a buy one get one free coupon for that item then you only pay the sales tax and will get both items for free. Print the store policy and bring it with you to avoid any confrontations about this issue with the store sales clerk.


Cashback programs
Ebates
Swagbucks
Bing
Mr. Rebates
if you shop on line and go through these websites you can get % of money back from your purchases

Coupon Code/Promo Code/Free Shipping
Retailmenot.com
Have you ever seen those boxes that say coupon code? Well go here and type the website where you want to purchase the item and this website will let you know whether there are any coupon codes available for either % off or free shipping for that retailer. I also go to google and type the name of the retailer with coupon code/promo code/free shipping to make sure I get any codes not listed in retailmenot.

Price Matching Websites
Google Shopping
My Simon
If you know what you are looking for, go to these websites and see which retailer has it on sale for the lowest price. Other people have reviewed the sellers. For me, I like more common sellers and will pay an extra dollar if it is from a more common seller rather than an unknown.