10 Secrets of 'Coupon Queens'

8. No store loyalty: Coupon Queens get the best prices in their area, not at a particular store. Since stores are competing against each other, they will likely have a number of loss leaders (items they sell at a loss to entice you into the store) that other stores don't. Coupon Queens will choose to shop at a store that matches prices at competing stores. If none do, they will go to several stores that are close by to get the best prices.

9. Rain checks: Most people hate rain checks when a sale item runs out because they want the item immediately. Coupon Queens love rain checks because they usually have a distant expiration date (if any). This allows the Coupon Queen to match the rain check with a coupon when it comes out for that particular product and this often results in free products.

10. Do rebates: Most people who hear "rebate" think about the cash-back rebates that offer a few dollars off on a large item. Coupon Queens know that there are a number of smaller rebates. For example, many grocery store rebates today are not a rebate per product, but rebates on a specific dollar amount of items purchased, such as $10 back on a $20 purchase. They also take advantage of "try me free" rebates and "taste guarantee" refunds.

There are a lot of tricks to the coupon trade, but if you are willing to put the time into learning the ropes, it is possible to significantly reduce the amount you spend on groceries by taking advantage of the deals that coupons offer.