The value of coupons

Coupons are not something we Aussies are not used to, but they are becoming more common and can make a real difference to the total of your grocery (and sometimes other) shopping.  The same rules apply when shopping with coupons as without.

1.Shop with a list and stick to it.
2.Only buy the items/products if you would normally - buying something just because it's cheap with a coupon is a waste of money.
3.Don't be afraid to try other brands - the worst thing that will happen is you don't like the product and will switch back to your regular brand.
4.A bargain isn't a bargain if you don't like it, wouldn't normally buy it or can't use it all in a timely fashion.
5.Just because you have a coupon that will save you money is no reason to overspend - that's not a saving.