Grocery coupons are a great way to save money on groceries. However, it is the combination of grocery coupons and sales that will make the biggest difference at the checkout. By combining grocery coupons and store sales you can increase your saving up to 100-percent. Yes, you read that right. When combining the manufacturer coupon with the already discounted sales items, it is completely possible to get free groceries.

Collecting the grocery coupons is the first step to saving. You will also want to keep the coupons you may not think you will use. Start collecting your grocery coupons and keep them in two separate areas. The first should be the coupons you know you will use. The second is for the grocery coupon that may not get used. If you try keeping the coupons together the process can get overwhelming and seem to be more difficult than it really is.

Your next step is to collect the local sales flyers from your area to match up with your grocery coupons. Generally the easiest way to do this is to go through each ad and write down the product that is on sale and the price it is on sale for. You may also want to put a star or check mark next to the item so you know you have a coupon for it.

In order to make the most of your grocery coupons, you need to understand the coupon policies of each store. Do they have a limit on the number of like coupons you can use per transaction? Do they double or triple coupons? Can you combine their store coupon with a manufacturer coupon? One store may have an item cheaper, but if a different store will double or triple your coupon that could be a better savings.

Another step in utilizing your grocery coupon is to think outside the box. Not all your groceries have to be purchased at the grocery store. In fact, many items may be cheaper at a discount store such as Wal-Mart or Target. You may be able to find better deals at Walgreens or CVS, both of which carry a small selection if groceries. They often have great deals on cleaners or toiletries as well.

To save the most money with your grocery coupons, it does take a little more than the one stop shopping trip. However, a well planned shopping trip can ease your budget and keep your bank account happy.