"The Truth About Extreme Couponing" article from SavingAdvice.com

Go here to read the article

A good coupon friend of mine passed along this article. While it does seem to be a little snarky toward serious couponers like me, a lot of what was written made good sense. 

"These are not normal shopping trips." 
True, so true.  I do a lot of "cheap" trips during the week where I ONLY buy stuff that is free or cheap, but when I go to Walmart on Sunday and buy what we need, I spend some money.  Make no mistake about it, I'm getting things for the lowest price possible, but some things just are not cheap. I gripe constantly about Simply Orange; there are hardly ever any coupons for it, and I buy about 8 a week for the sweet husband.

"Some participants resort to fraud or actively circumvent/abuse store policies."
 What was brought up in the article, I stand completely behind. However, by and large, couponers are honest and do things directly by the book.  I will do a lot of things to save money, but I will NOT do anything fraudulent or questionable.  I have relationships with all my stores, some better than others, but ALL of them know I won't pass a bad coupon.  They also know I will contact corporate should I have any real problems. 

"They give couponers a bad name"
I hold up lines; yes, I do.  However, not for hours.  I also am NOT rude to cashiers.  If they give me problems, I ask as nicely as possible to speak to a manger.  I always advocate for being as polite as possible in all circumstances. Even in the worst situations, I try to thank the cashier for their trouble. By and large, it really is not their fault. 

"These people live in areas with great coupon policies."
I am hoping they will showcase someone on Extreme Couponing going to a store that doesn't double or triple coupons.  Perhaps a CVS, Target, or Walmart.  With doubling and tripling, you can get some just fabulous deals.  Don't let this dissuade you should you live in the LOND (Land of No Doubles); awesome deals are to be had!! 


"They dedicate a lot of time to this."
I do. I am a complete addict.  No reason to even lie about it.  :)