So for the past several weeks a group of us gals, now known as the “Coupon Mamas” have been scouring the net and papers in search of the good deals. Today was my first actual trip using the tips learned from some other frugal mom’s as well as several e-newsletters.
First off, I made sure to make a list. Not only did I make a list, but it was detailed.
Secondly, I made sure that I searched high and low for coupons for EVERYTHING on my list. Well, unfortunately, I couldn’t find coupons for everything, but I did have them for the bulk of my list, which really did make a difference.
Lastly, I shop at the local commissary, so along with the coupons; I’m also not having to pay taxes!
Toilet paper, 12 pack: Price $5.99, minus coupon, I paid $4.99.
Dora Yoplait Yogurt: Price $1.95, minus coupon, I paid $1.40
Pop secret popcorn: Price $.90, I paid $.30
Pampers diapers: Price: $15.11, I paid $13.61
Pampers Wipes: Price 5.96, I paid $4.96
Deodorant: Price: $2.33, I paid $1.83
Shampoo: Price: $1.99, I paid $1.49
Conditioner: Price $1.99, I paid $1.49
Paper towels, 3 rolls: Paid $1.88 (no coupon, they didn’t have the kind for the coupon I did have)
Bisquick: Price $2.99 (no coupon-searched really hard for one too!)
Mac N Cheese, special 5 pack: Paid $2.50
Bread: Paid $1.09
Total bill came to: $44.68
Minus coupons -6.15
Plus surcharge +2.23
Total paid out today $40.76
Not too bad if you consider that the bulk of the list was personal care and baby care items!
I wish I could do better on the diapers and wipes, I realized today that Pampers just raised their prices! I used to pay somewhere in the amount of $14 something, and today they were up to $15.11!!! I may be switching brands. I need to shop around and see what I like.
I hope your shopping trips go as successful as mine did. It took a bit more planning, but if it saves us time and money, than I’m willing to give up those extra few minutes to make the list and ensure that I have coupons for the exact items that I want to buy.
If you were all wondering why I don't have other things on my list such as food items or baby formula. Well, as for the food, we aren't needing as much of it lately since Hubby is away at school and it is just me and my 5 year old. As for the formula we are on WIC, so THANKFULLY, that is one expense that we have not had to pay since Baby girl's birth! I highly recommend WIC. I know public assistance seems...ummmmm undesirable to many (as it was to me when this was first suggested) But, a really good friend of mine who has three children put it to me this way. "These programs are in place, if you qualify, take full advantage! Our men are fighting for this country, and you know darn well we don't get paid that much in return! We qualify, go take advantage and get the things you need!" So it was after that conversation that I started taking advantage of the programs provided. It is not just a military program, so for anyone who is pregnant or has a small child and knows that they will be on formula...do yourselves a favor and go and see if you qualify. The worst that can happen is that they'll say you make too much! But hey, It is absolutely worth that little bit of time to call up and go to an appointment!!!! The average cost of Formula now a days is approximately $15 to $30 depending on the can and size that you buy! My own little one goes through approximately 3 cans that are 12.9 oz a week! On average that would cost me over $60 a week, JUST FOR THE FORMULA!!!! Like I said, it's definately worth a try.
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4 comments:
Good job on the coupons! Get any extras off to Mel. She may have some of the coupons on your list!
You could always email or snail mail me a copy of your list. If I come across anything that is short dated (ie: less than 30 days to expiration-it would be easier/cheaper/quicker for me to snail mail you the coupons)I can zip them into an envelope for you!
Yay! Great job on the savings!!!!
WOOOOOOHOOOOOOOOOOO! Nice job, girlie!!!!
I'll forward your coupon list and address to Ma per her comment.
:-)
That reminds me...what the heck is the surcharge???? I noticed that on the commissary receipt and it's almost what tax would be on what we purchased!!!!! WTF?
As for the diapers and such - check Target. Even with tax they may be less. Also, try diapers.com. They do free shipping on orders over a certain price and they accept coupons if'n you mail 'em in ahead of time. Plus you get % back on your account for your next purchase. They offer formula too, but not certain if they take WIC checks or Enfamil checks toward payment.
Another thought: try the AAFES wipes. If baby girl doesn't have a sensitive tuckus, they are much less expensive and they work great. Manly actually grabbed them from the Shoppette while we were in hospital and they were GREAT. We buy Kirkland Brand at Costco, but if I recall correctly you don't have a Costco membership. You could try emailing Ma next time you need them, she would probably be willing to meet you at the P. Costco and get you in. ;-P We figured out the cost and Costco's are cheaper than AAFES, but if ya don't have access, AAFES is still lots less than Pampers or Huggies wipes. Lots.
You did great! May I suggest something? Put the money you save each week into an account. I do this with my grocery savings, and was able to save enough this year to replace my computer when it died. It can be your 'fun money' account towards something special. It's great to save money, but doubly great to have something to show for it (rather than having it get absorbed back into the budget).
I do have to say...I'm awfully glad it's been about 15 years since one of mine was in diapers! Wow, those things are pricey!
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