Starting a Stockpile

When you find items at rock-bottom prices, you will usually want to buy multiples to avoid paying retail price later. Eventually, you will begin to build a stockpile of items that you use frequently. Stockpiling is a great way to save money because as it grows, you will spend less and less on groceries. You will find yourself only buying perishable items such as meat, produce, and dairy, rather than a huge, expensive cartful every month.

There are many reasons to stockpile aside from saving money. Basically, it all comes down to preparedness. What would happen if you or your spouse became unemployed or injured? What would happen in the event of a natural disaster? What would happen if you couldn’t financially keep up with inflation? Many couponers like to keep a 6 to 12 month stockpile at minimum; I honestly wouldn’t recommend any more than that unless you absolutely need that much stuff. Couponing can become very addicting, so always remember what products (and prices) are actually worth stocking up on – if you aren’t going to use it, don’t buy it.

There are a few things to keep in mind when stockpiling:

1. Stock up based on the number of people in your household.
2. Rotate stock and always be aware of expiration dates.
3. Don’t be so brand specific – try new things.
4. Don’t keep stock in a room with fluctuating temperatures.
5. Labeling items is always helpful.
6. Stay organized – buy a shelf. Don’t keep your stuff everywhere.
7. Avoid hoarding – even toothpaste and laundry detergent expires.
8. If an item is about to expire – donate it!