Advanced Coupon Strategies

Here's the scoop on finding the real deals using coupons. These simple advanced coupon strategies can really help you save money.

Combine Coupons. Increase your savings by combining a manufacturer coupon with a store coupon for the same item. Hint: Take your savings to the next level, by combining these coupons during a store sale and/or coupling it with an in-store rebate.

Buy Multiple Papers. If the Sunday paper contains a good set of coupons, it may make sense buy another copy of it. Sometimes, you need to spend $3 on the extra paper to get an extra $15 saved in coupons - not a bad trade off. Hint: Some stores will discount their Sunday paper on Monday, so you can save even more money.)

Buy Out of Town Papers. Sunday coupon inserts vary region to region. Buying an out of town paper can score you coupons on products that you would otherwise not get.

Make A Coupon File. Carry your coupons with you wherever you go, so you can use your coupons on the fly. Talked with my nephews the other day, and within 5 minutes of the conversation, I forked over $35 in discounts and free passes to the movies and a museum. Hint: Organize them in a pocket file organizer with the 12 folders. Leave the organize in your car or carry it in your purse.

Double Your Savings. Find out which stores double coupons and up to what amount. At these stores, prices may run higher in generally, but a double coupon will still net you a great deal.

Buy an Entertainment Book. By July, the price for this book has dropped to $5 (from $30 in Nov). My edition offers 4 separate $5 coupons at my local supermarket. So, the $5 purchase nets me $15. In addition, the book is loaded with great coupons for the movies, the driving range, and a large variety of stores that I purchase at frequently. Chia-ching!

Sign up for Email Alerts. Register online at your favorite stores for email alerts and advance notice of sales. Hint: To manage the large volume of email, I have these alerts to a seperate email account that I use strictly for coupon tracking only.

Go to Coupon Sites. While there are hundreds of online coupon sites, here's my short list of the best of breed of e-coupons . I like these sites because: (1) the discounts are fresh, (2) the deals are reliable, and (3) the interfaces are easy to use. Coupons.com, CouponMom, Smartsource, Retailmenot, and Couponcabin.

Lowell Folk Festival - A Great $10 Date

Nothing like a good cheap date or a bargain to give this girl a thrill. Here's this week's perfect summer weekend pick for a great date for $10 or less.

Lowell Folk Festival. Doesn't matter how your musical tastes run, there is something for everyone at this festival - the largest of its kind in the country. Polka, Bluegrass, Jazz, Gospel, Zydeco. Quebecois, Western Swing, honky-tonk, brass bands, and many more. Definitely, a fun time and the potential for dancin' in the streets. Music is free at one of 6 outdoor venues across the City. Ethnic foods and arts/crafts also available. It must be good - New York Times just identified it as one its top picks for a summer getaway!

And while you're in Lowell, check out these other great things to do...

Visit the Lowell National Historic Park. Take a canal boat tour and explore the Merrimack River. $10

Boott Cotton Mill Museum. Visit the weaving room. Learn about the Industrial Revolution, the labor movement, and the rise, fall, and rebirth of Lowell. $6

American Textile History Museum. Learn all about the history of textile manufacturing revolution in America. Current exhibits are quite good. $8 -but save yourself some money and use a $2 off coupon available.

Cheaper Hotel Rooms

Just coached a friend through how to stretch her vacation dollars by saving money on hotel rooms. Reserving a hotel room is often the most expensive part of your travel plans. Try some of these great tips on saving money when booking your hotel room.

Bypass the 800# and call the hotel directly. Call the on-site reservation desk and get the deals and rewards associated with the particular hotel. Ask for package deals. and always end with "Is this the best offer you can provide?"

Ask at Check-In. When you arrive at the hotel, ask if any value-added options or room rates reductions have become available since you booked the room.

Celebrating a special occasion. Let the hotel know if you're celebrating a special occasion. It's one of the easiest ways to get a free upgrade.

Know how important the view is. If you're not interested in the ocean view or the size of the room doesn't matter, try negotiating for an alternative view, smaller room, or room in the hotel's annex at a lower price. If you're not going to enjoy the view, why pay for it?

Select off-season locations or of-peak times. It's no secret that room rates are cheaper in the off season and off-peak times. Travel right before or after the peak season for a favorite vacation hotspot. Traveling for a weekend? Select a hotel that caters to business travelers. On the weekends, these hotels are likely to have more rooms available and at cheaper rates.

Choose a University. University often rent their dorm rooms in the summer for a fraction of the price of a hotel. I have a niece who snagged a great room at Cornell Med School Dorms in downtown NYC for $30 a night. Might be no thrills rooming, but it's a bargain hard to beat.

Beware of hidden fees. Make sure you understand what services are available as part of your room rate. It's not uncommon for hotels to charge extra for services as newspaper delivery, wireless access, or parking. It's often less expensive to go off property for these things (e.g., buy the paper at local newsstand, surf for free at a local bake shop or park a few blocks away from the hotel property). If these services are part of a packaged deal and you have no plans to use them, negotiate these services out for a lower rate.

Call the local Chamber of Commerce. You can often get lower hotel rates through special offers at local Chamber of Commerce.

Use your memberships. If you're a AAA member or AARP member, have an Entertainment Book, membership can often save you 10-20% off a room rate.

Free Pastry @ Starbucks on 7/21

I'm beginning to think that I'll never pay for another cup of coffee or a sweet treat anymore. It seems like almost everyone is offering an incentive to get buyers into their storefronts. Anyhow, here's the latest way to save some money with little or no effort...

On Tuesday, July 21, stop by your local Starbucks and get a free pastry to go with your morning brew. Promotion runs from store's opening until 10:30 or whenever pastry runs out. Promotion celebrates Starbuck's new line of breakfast goods baked without artificial preservatives, colors or trans fats. Just show your coupon to your barista.

Saving Money by Winning at Rebates

Filing this week's rebates for Staples purchases - $26 of back to school supplies (e.g., pencils, pens, and highlighters) for free. Thus far, in July, I'm getting $80+ cash back in rebates. Thought I would share my tips for winning at the rebate game. It takes some effort and time, but you can save alot of money redeeming rebates.

Know your threshold for following through. According to a recent Aberdeen Group survey involving 175 companies, redemption rates on rebates is 58%. So, if you don't submit the paperwork and can't handle the wait time, rebates aren't for you. You're likely to pay more for the item than if you waited for the item to go on sale.

Be disciplined. Most folks think they'll process the paperwork, but never get around to it. Give yourself a deadline (e.g., 48 hrs post purchase) to complete the paperwork.

Avoid losing the rebate on a technicality. Follow directions. Most rebates are rejected because the consumer failed to follow the directions correctly (e.g., used the wrong bar code, incomplete information, wrong UPC code or rebate receipt code, using a PO box when physical street address is required, missing box top etc.)

Know what's required. Understand the deadlines for submission, rebates available per customer, rebates per physical address, special instructions, proof of purchase requirements, etc. Sometimes the cost and effort of processing the rebate outweigh the value of the rebate.

Make copies. Make copies of all documents before you mail them. If you need to contest a rebate rejection, you'll need your backup.

Track the time. Mark the process time on a calender so you can follow up if you're in non-receipt of your rebate check within a reasonable time.

Watch the mail. Some rebate checks can look like junk mail,so watch the mail carefully to avoid accidentally tossing them out. Once you receive it, cash it. Most checks have an expiration date.

Free Book Download On Monday

Free giveaways are a great thing in a recession, don't you think? Just caught wind of a great free book give-away courtesy of Miss Oprah Winfrey that starts on Monday, July 20. Save yourself some money; reap the benefits of a great bargain and a good read too!

On Monday, just sign in to Oprah.com and get your free download of Jill Ciment's novel "Heroic Measures" a taut, moving, accomplished novel set in a fraught, post-9/11 New York... about real estate, dog love, and a city on alert. and an elderly couple and their dachshund. Critics' comments include include "Poignant"; "Boldly Conceived" and "lively and edgy".

Need a head start and some motivation to download? A Chapter 1 excerpt is available online and featured in the July 2009 "O" magazine.

Great bargain for readers on a budget. Enjoy!

7/20 note: download available for 48 hrs, starting at 11:00 a.m. today

The $10 Date. Saving Money, Having Fun.

Spent a recent weekend on a great date that I'd like to share with those of you looking to save some cash, do something a little different, and have some fun without draining your wallet. Another fun time for $10 or less.

Head out for a fantastic ride on the MinuteMan Bikeway (also know as America's Rail Trail) in Lexington Center. Ride, walk, run or rollerblade yourself through Bedford, Lexington, Arlington and Cambridge.

Get yourself a a good lickin' at Rancatore's Ice Cream Shop in Lexington Center for a freshly made ice cream cone (The chocolate cinnamon chip , anyone?).

Catch a revolutionary re-enactment. Head over to the Battlegreen Common (also known as Lexington Common) - the site of the opening shot of the American Revolution (i.e., the shot heard around the world) where you're likely to catch a revolutionary re-enactment on the weekends.

Wander through the National Heritage Museum. (Free Admission) Founded by the Freemasons (who count George Washington, Ben Franklin, Paul Revere and John Hanna amongst its members), it celebrates the traditional history of the American Revolution and popular culture. Current exhibits include the Enchanted Clocks of George McFadden - a series of whimsical cuckoo clocks from the man who also created Boston's historic Enchanted Village. And A Penny for Your Thoughts: Postcards from the Golden Age, 1898 -1918

Staples Back to School Sale

April showers bring May flowers and Staples Back to School sales in July. aBck to school deals are a great way to stock up on supplies and save money too. Last year, I stock my home office completely with the weekly deals at Staples.

This week's weekly flyer features $.01 (penny) deals, $1 deals, Easy Saver Rebates, and a special $5 off $20 purchase coupon. Most deals are limited to 2 items per customer (so don't forget to drag your spouse along, ring his purchases separately, and double your supplies and savings). These deals end on July 15. Read Coupon Sudoku (below) to max. saving money.

Penny Deals
Staples pencils 8ct. 1¢ (until 7/15)
Staples Copy Paper 1 ream for 1¢ (Final price after you submit $3.68 for an online rebate)

Dollar Deals
Photo Paper 4″x6″ for $1 (Final price after you submit $8.99 for an online rebate.)
Pencil cases, $1
Stapler, $1
5 " scissors 2pk., $1
BIC Wite-Out Quick Dry, 2 Pack, $1
Pink Wedge Erasers, 3 Pack, $1
Sharpie Major Accent® Highlighters, Assorted, 6 Pk, $1
BIC Velocity Stick Fashion Pens, Assorted, 5 Pack, $1
Scotch Magic Tape, $1

Coupon Sudoku
And now for alittle Coupon Sudoku - my term for how to line up your purchase to maximize your savings in minimal time:

Scenario #1: Spend less, Save 50%+
Buy the tollowing items:
(2) of every dollar deal ($16)
(2) reams of Copy Paper ($3.69 each)
==========================
Subtotal: $23.38
Less $5 off $20 coupon = $18.38
Less $7.36 in rebates($3.68 x 2, for the reams of paper)=
$11.02 (final price)


Scenario #2: Get more money back than you actually spent.
Buy the following items:
(2) Staples Photo Paper ($9.99 each,)
(2) Staples Pencils 8 Ct ($.01)
========================
Subtotal: $20
Less $5 off $20 coupon= $15.00
Less $17.98 in rebates ($8.99 each x2 for the photo paper) =
$2.98 net profit - Yes, you make more money than you spent


Random Note: And since there is almost always a McDonalds near a Staples Store, you might as well celebrate Free Coffee Monday. Get a free 7 oz iced Mocha or an 8 oz hot McCafe Mocha at participating McDonalds from 7 am to 7 pm.

Sears Friends & Family Discount Today

As if Free Starbuck's Ice Cream wasn't enough to make your smile, here's another great way to save some money. Go to the Sears Friends and Family VIP event today. Save yourself an extra 5 -15% on almost everything at Sears in store ( 6 - 9 p.m. ) and online (6 p.m. - 4 a.m)

4 great ways to save:

• 15% off women’s, men’s and kids’ apparel, accessories, fine jewelry and shoes1 (apply to regular, sale and clearance price)
• 5-15% off Lands’ End merchandise (in-store only)
• 5% off savings on TVs 40 inches and larger, digital cameras, GPS and DVD players. (You're probably looking at $50 - $60 savings)
• Additional 10% off Kenmore appliances (already on sale for 20%). Time to get that stainless steel bachelor fridge you've been eyeing!

Happy Shopping!

Free Starbucks Ice Cream

Now, here's a sweet deal for Facebook fans looking to save some money ($4) and enjoy some ice cream too! Win a free pint of Starbuck's Ice Cream. This promo runs through July 19th. One coupon per household address. Click here to access the link, then follow the instructions.



Four choices of ice cream flavors:

Caramel Macchiato

Mocha Frappuccino

Java Chip Frappuccino

Coffee





FYI : I'll be get the java chip frappuccino and sandwiching it between two giant Oreo cookie lids (purchased at Ocean State Job Lots). So feel free to drop and enjoy Don't know what to do with your print, check out the recipes available at Starbucksicecream.com

Key Lime Pie. 4 Steps to Deliciousness

Needed to whip up a quick dessert for some unexpected guests stopping by. After raiding the pantry, I decided whip up a Key Lime Pie. Next time you're caught in a similiar situation, save yourself some effort and time driving to the market, waiting in line, etc. Once you read the recipe, you'll realize how easy it is to make. Costs $4 to make from semi-scratch; $14 to buy at the market. The $10 saved buys an awful lot of Ice Cafe Lattes this weekend.

Ingredients:
1 Ready Made Graham Cracker Pie Crust
1 14 oz can sweetened condensed milk
4 egg yolks
1/2 cup Key Lime Pie
Whipped cream
1/4 finely chopped walnuts
2 limes, thinly sliced, for garnish

Step by Step:
Preheat oven to 325 degrees

1. Using an electric mixer, combine the milk and egg yolks at slow speed. Gradually add the lime juice. Mix until well blended and mixture has thickened.
2. Poor batter into the graham cracker pie crust .
3.Bake 8-10 minutes. Cool and refrigerate until chilled.
4. Top with whipped cream, chopped walnuts and lime slices.

Free Fun on Friday

As most of you already know "free" and "Friday" are two of my favorite things. Free chocolate, free books and now, free museum admissions and movies - all available to you on Friday (tomorrow). So, after you register for your free chocolate bar and the chance to win a free book, save more money on Friday by visiting a museum or watching a movie for free.

Free Fun Fridays . The Highland Street Foundation is providing free admission to a designated Massachusetts museum or attraction for ten Fridays this summer. The event listings are:
7/10 - JFK Museum
7/17 - Boston Harbor Island Ferry (free rides to the Harbor Islands!)
7/24 - Franklin Park Zoo
7/31 - Boston Children's Museum
8/7 - Plimoth Plantation
8/14- Stone Zoo
8/21 - Peabody Essex Museum
8/28 - MFA
9/4 - Springfield Museums


Free Friday Flicks. And after a day at a museum, why not grab a beach blanket and head over to Hatch Shell for a Free Friday Flick. Free Outdoors Movies, sponsored by the MA Dept of Conservation and Recreation (DCR) and WBZ Radio. All movies start at sundown (8:30 pmish)
7/10 - Kung Fu Panda
7/17 - Get Smart
7/24: Madagasascar: Escape 2 Africa
7/31: Mama Mia!
8/7 - Star Wars: The Clone Wars
8/14: Inkheart
8/21 - Indiana Jones and the Kingdom of the Crystal Skull
8/28: Iron Man

Save Money by Repairing Your Own Window Screens

Decided to tackled the job of replacing window screens in my house today after receiving a vendor's estimate of $425 for 12 windows. Nothing like a recession to bring out your inner Do It Yourself and save some cash. Spent $30 on supplies. Saved $395. My husband did the first few screen replacements, then it was my turn. I was surprised how easy it is do and how you can save alot of money by doing it yourself. Once you know what you're doing, it takes about 20 minutes per screen. Check out my step by step instructions:

Materials List:
Buy a screen kit at your local hardware store which includes enough screening material to do a few windows (e.g., 3-4 windows).

Purchase the individual materials if you're planning on doing alot of windows:

Measuring Tape
Masking Tape
Replacement Screening
Screen Rolling Tool
Sharp Razor Tool

Step By Step Instructions

1. Remove the window screen from the window frame and clean it.
2. Place screen on a hard flat surface larger than the actual screen.
3. Pull the rubber edging out from the old screen.
4. Pull out the old screening.
5. Measure the new screening from a roll of replacement screening material. Measure to the outer edge of the screen frame, then leave 1 inch more all the way around the frame.
7. Place the new screening down on the frame. Tape down each side. Make sure screen is taunt.
8. Measure and cut 4 lengthes of new rubber edging. Each length should be sized to fit one length of the window.
9. Starting in a upper left corner, press the rubber edging firmly back into the frame's groove. The edging should rest on top of the screening material. Work all the way around the frame. Use a screen rolling tool (it looks like a small pizza cutter.) to push the edging into its groove. Note: I found it handy to use a screw driver to push the rubber in at the corners.
10. Trim any excess screen material using a razor tool.

Now you're ready to put the screen back in the window. Yes, it's that easy to save some money!

Breakfast On The Go

Save yourself some time and money with an innovated product for eating breakfast on the go. Cool Gear's EZ's Freeze Cereal StayFit cereal kit. It's a plastic dual chamber container that keeps your cereal separate from your milk until you're ready to eat it and the milk stays colder for a longer period of time. The leak proof container features a cereal bowl with a built in spoon, and a twist off milk jug with a build it freezer pack. Fill it with your favorite cereal (e.g., Cherrios with flaxseed, cinnamon & a dash of Splenda) and milk or fill it with a mid morning snack like fruit (e.g., sliced nectarines & blueberries) and yogurt flavor (e.g., vanilla).


I pack one up in my lunchbox. I love the time it saves me waiting in line for an over-toasted bagel at my local gym that I buy after my workout as I head out on the daily errands. Also, love the cash it saves me. A bagel and coffee typically runs me $4; Cereal to Go brings the cost of breakfast down to 50 cents. Now that's a nice money saver!



You can buy one at the Christmas Tree Shop under the product's old name "Cereal to Go" for $2.99. You can also purchase this item at The Container Store and Staples for $3.99 (on sale) and $4.99 as well as several online outlets such as Cooking.com, HGTV Marketplace, and BonTon.


Love this product? Check out other innovate products for snackers at Cool Gear's website.