Couponing With Carly

Coupon Binder Method

One of the most popular ways to store coupons is the binder method.  You need a strong 3-ring binder that zips.  Inside the binder you use a variety of coupons sleeves to store the needed coupons.  Coupon sleeves are found in everything from 2-sleeve pages to 9-sleeve pages. 

Your coupons fit in the various sized sleeves so you can see the product and the expiration dates.

You can then divide you coupons into sections to keep everything organized.  Here are some ways to organize you binder.

• Alphabetically
• By Store
• By Types of Products
• By Insert Type
• By Insert Date
• By Expiration Date

I use my binder to store cut coupons and to store any non-insert coupons.

Here is some info on using the binder method

Coupon Box or  File Method

A file box or some type of accordion file is using to hold the clipped coupons.  The coupons are in files where they are kept in envelopes or paper clipped in various categories.

I used this method for a time but found it difficult to sometimes find what I needed.  I also found the file box difficult to use in stores.  

Coupon Insert Method

Coupon inserts and printed coupons are kept uncut and are filled by week in a file box or in a file cabinet. The coupons are cut on an as needed basis. I keep my coupons in a file cabinet and cut as needed.

Shopping in the Store

I before I go shopping I take the time to write out my master list with how many of each item I am buying.  If necessary I then make transaction list for each transaction, numbering them.  I also write on the transaction list if I am receiving any catalinas or gift cards or if I am using a gift card or catalina from a previous transaction.  I attach the coupons to each transaction.  While shopping in the store, you may find unadvertised deals or clearance that you have coupons for, add those items to your list and the coupons to the transactions.  Before checkout I divide my transactions in my cart and do a double and a triple check count.