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We previously discussed a few strategies for saving money on food and other grocery items. Coupons are also a great way to spend less on groceries, though it's understandable if you avoid them because they're too much trouble, or you don't want to be "forced" to buy things you don't really need just to "save" money. The best way to deal with 'em is to be a little proactive and organized.

First, buy your local Sunday newspaper. You can find coupons online as well, at a variety of sites. Do the Google thing and explore all you like. But here and now, for groceries, cosmetics, and toiletries, local Sunday newspapers are the best. Whatever the cost of the paper (within reason), you'll make the money back several times over. And you can always read your newspaper: the comics, the weekly TV listings, sports section, book reviews, etc.

You should also get a coupon organizer, which is a wallet-type folder sold at stationery, discount, and (naturally) supermarkets. It'll have pockets that are either labeled for different categories (dairy, paper products, canned goods, beverages, etc.) or left blank for you to complete.

There's usually a section or two of just coupons and other advertising matter inserted with the rest of the ads in the Sunday newspaper. Leaf through it, grab a sharp pair of scissors, and cut out the coupons for items that you already use, you may want to try, or those offering free samples of products that appear interesting. Don't bother with any that make you buy multiple items but offer small savings — like 25 cents. They're not worth messing with.

If you do this every week, you'll have a nice stash of coupons for a variety of things.

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