I'm still juggling sick kids, working on my website, trying to learn my new camera, and this afternoon's latest arrival: having a headache.
But I do want to post about my CVS shop tonight. It's nothing special but I know I haven't said much about CVS lately...
I forgot to take a picture, folks. Sorry. But here's what I got:
6) 32-oz bottles of PowerAde (on sale BOGO @ $1.69 last week - got a raincheck)
2) gallons milk
1) pk Huggies diapers
1) pk feminine pads
I used:
my raincheck
(6) PowerAde coupons for either $1/1 or $.75/1 each
(2) $.55/1 Dean's milk coupons
(1) $1.50/1 Huggies coupon
$3/$15 CVS coupon
....and $10 ECB.
Total before coupons, raincheck, and sales:
$31.20
Total after:
$1.65
Score! Not a bad price for things we needed!
I didn't have time tonight but I am definitely going back to make some moolah on the photo books this week. I'm not a huge fan of CVS photo prints, but hey! I'm making money on it with an item coupon AND a store coupon! And who doesn't like burning a book? I mean, really.
What are you buying at CVS this week?
Showing posts with label CVS. Show all posts
Showing posts with label CVS. Show all posts
Monday, July 14, 2008
Saturday, June 7, 2008
More (Almost) Free Diapers!!
I thought I was well enough stocked on diapers for a while after the past few weeks (see my previous posts here and here), but when new CVS Huggies coupons arrived in the mail this week, I was stoked!
I know that these coupons did not make it to every CVS-ing household, but for those of you who got them - SWEET! I also get Huggies coupons in the mail occasionally, so that's where the rest of my coupons came from. There are other Huggies coupons from a recent newspaper insert, but the ones that come in the mail are usually a little better.
Here is what I did tonight (our CVS deals for next week are already running):
2 pkgs of Huggies diapers (on sale for $7.99 each)
1 pkg of Huggies Supreme Refill wipes (on clearance for $3.00)
I used the following coupons:
(1) $3/$15 CVS coupon
(1) $2/1 Huggies diapers CVS coupon
(2) $1.50/1 Huggies diaper coupon
(1) $1/1 Huggies wipes CVS coupon
(1) $.75/1 Huggies wipes coupon
...and $6.99 ECB.
I didn't get any ECB back today, but I can't argue with $2.66 for two packages of Huggies diapers and the best wipes ever! :)
I'm sure I'll be back in again this week for other deals (specifically the cereal deal!) but I didn't want them to run out of diapers (which they sometimes do). Plus, now I've had my CVS fix for a few days. :)
I know that these coupons did not make it to every CVS-ing household, but for those of you who got them - SWEET! I also get Huggies coupons in the mail occasionally, so that's where the rest of my coupons came from. There are other Huggies coupons from a recent newspaper insert, but the ones that come in the mail are usually a little better.
Here is what I did tonight (our CVS deals for next week are already running):
2 pkgs of Huggies diapers (on sale for $7.99 each)
1 pkg of Huggies Supreme Refill wipes (on clearance for $3.00)
I used the following coupons:
(1) $3/$15 CVS coupon
(1) $2/1 Huggies diapers CVS coupon
(2) $1.50/1 Huggies diaper coupon
(1) $1/1 Huggies wipes CVS coupon
(1) $.75/1 Huggies wipes coupon
...and $6.99 ECB.
I didn't get any ECB back today, but I can't argue with $2.66 for two packages of Huggies diapers and the best wipes ever! :)
I'm sure I'll be back in again this week for other deals (specifically the cereal deal!) but I didn't want them to run out of diapers (which they sometimes do). Plus, now I've had my CVS fix for a few days. :)
Monday, June 2, 2008
New CVS Coupons!
For those of you who haven't heard, there is a new $3/$15 CVS coupon in the Beacon Journal Newspaper. Click here to be redirected to Money Saving Mom with full details on how to get this coupon.
In addition to that, I found some new CVS beauty coupon booklets tonight. They were sitting on top of the card scanner kiosk (whatever those are called) and they have some decent coupons that could be paired with manufacturer coupons or the $3/$10 CVS brand coupons for a pretty good deal.
There were two separate booklets and since these seem to be hard to find, I thought I would take a picture of each to help you out.
#1:
#2:
The coupons in these booklets are good through August 31, 2008.
And speaking of coupons....two coupon things happened tonight at CVS.
#1: I was standing near the registers trying to sort through my overflowing cart full of stuff and a lady walked up behind me. I told her I was not in line and that she could go ahead and she informed me that she was looking for coupons (in her purse). She handed me a coupon for the Huggies wipes I was buying and I gave her one for the pull-ups in her basket. I thought it was a pretty good deal! But then the deal got even sweeter when she handed me a whole HANDFUL of Huggies coupons. She said her newborn can't wear Huggies so she would never use them. SWEET!
#2: While I was still standing in line (but not in line) a man walked up to the registers. I told him the same thing...that I was not ready and that he was welcome to go ahead. He laughed and said, "Are you confused about what you got?" (I was piling stuff up on the counter so as to sort through everything in my cart). I said, "Oh, no...I just have to figure out my transactions so I hardly spend any money." He gave me a look that I thought said he thought I was crazy. But a few seconds later he asked, "Do you teach classes on it? Can you teach my wife?" Lol. I told him that I was in fact going to be doing a coupon seminar at my church the first weekend of August and that she was welcome to come! I really got a kick out of his question!
In addition to that, I found some new CVS beauty coupon booklets tonight. They were sitting on top of the card scanner kiosk (whatever those are called) and they have some decent coupons that could be paired with manufacturer coupons or the $3/$10 CVS brand coupons for a pretty good deal.
There were two separate booklets and since these seem to be hard to find, I thought I would take a picture of each to help you out.
#1:
#2:
The coupons in these booklets are good through August 31, 2008.
And speaking of coupons....two coupon things happened tonight at CVS.
#1: I was standing near the registers trying to sort through my overflowing cart full of stuff and a lady walked up behind me. I told her I was not in line and that she could go ahead and she informed me that she was looking for coupons (in her purse). She handed me a coupon for the Huggies wipes I was buying and I gave her one for the pull-ups in her basket. I thought it was a pretty good deal! But then the deal got even sweeter when she handed me a whole HANDFUL of Huggies coupons. She said her newborn can't wear Huggies so she would never use them. SWEET!
#2: While I was still standing in line (but not in line) a man walked up to the registers. I told him the same thing...that I was not ready and that he was welcome to go ahead. He laughed and said, "Are you confused about what you got?" (I was piling stuff up on the counter so as to sort through everything in my cart). I said, "Oh, no...I just have to figure out my transactions so I hardly spend any money." He gave me a look that I thought said he thought I was crazy. But a few seconds later he asked, "Do you teach classes on it? Can you teach my wife?" Lol. I told him that I was in fact going to be doing a coupon seminar at my church the first weekend of August and that she was welcome to come! I really got a kick out of his question!
Money Monday - Today's CVS Trip!
I'm ashamed to admit that, after 4 months of avid CVS-ing, I think I spent more money tonight than I have ever spent there.
HOWEVER....
I did get a LOT of stuff we need and use, so definitely not a waste of money. (Those of you who can't seem to understand why I get things I don't need will be happier with this post). :) I could have done better, but I didn't plan my transactions very well and then I felt so bad that they were waiting on me to close. I know...I'm a people pleaser in that regard. I must have apologized almost a dozen times. Not an exaggeration. Anyway, five transactions later, here is what I walked out the door with:
In case you can't see all those tiny things, I'll give you the rundown in writing:
(1) 8-pk Bounty paper towel
(3) 9-pk Charmin toilet paper...Ultra Soft :)
(2) Jumbo size Pampers diapers
(2) Pampers Sensitive baby wipes
(2) Huggies refill baby wipes (180ct each)
(4) Huggies baby wash
(4) Carefree pantyliners (22ct each)
(2) Listerine mouthwash (250mL)
(2) 2-pk Oral B CrossAction toothbrushes
(3) Brut deodorant
(2) bags of Chex mix
(1) yearly planner
(1) Glade Scented Oil candle holder
(2) CVS brand cotton swabs (Q-tips) 500ct each
(3) CVS brand bandaids
Total before coupons and sales: $143.67
Total OOP: $16.00 *GULP*
Total ECB to use next time: $15.00
Not terrible, I know. And considering that's the cost of JUST the two packages of diapers anywhere else, I'm not feeling too awful. But it is one of my worst shopping trips ever as far as OOP costs go.
Regardless of my shame, I am glad to say that we should be set on toilet paper, paper towel, diapers, bandaids, baby wash, pantyliners, Q-tips, and DEFINITELY baby wipes for quite some time!
I also want to mention that the Huggies Supreme refill baby wipes packs were on clearance at my CVS (Note to Katy - there is a PILE of them left! Go grab them!) for just $3/pack. I used coupons, of course, which brought them down to $2 each. NICE, EH? Yep. So you might want to check that out if you need baby wipes.
As always, thanks to Crystal over at Money Saving Mom for all her hard work in posting the CVS deals each week and month!
HOWEVER....
I did get a LOT of stuff we need and use, so definitely not a waste of money. (Those of you who can't seem to understand why I get things I don't need will be happier with this post). :) I could have done better, but I didn't plan my transactions very well and then I felt so bad that they were waiting on me to close. I know...I'm a people pleaser in that regard. I must have apologized almost a dozen times. Not an exaggeration. Anyway, five transactions later, here is what I walked out the door with:
In case you can't see all those tiny things, I'll give you the rundown in writing:
(1) 8-pk Bounty paper towel
(3) 9-pk Charmin toilet paper...Ultra Soft :)
(2) Jumbo size Pampers diapers
(2) Pampers Sensitive baby wipes
(2) Huggies refill baby wipes (180ct each)
(4) Huggies baby wash
(4) Carefree pantyliners (22ct each)
(2) Listerine mouthwash (250mL)
(2) 2-pk Oral B CrossAction toothbrushes
(3) Brut deodorant
(2) bags of Chex mix
(1) yearly planner
(1) Glade Scented Oil candle holder
(2) CVS brand cotton swabs (Q-tips) 500ct each
(3) CVS brand bandaids
Total before coupons and sales: $143.67
Total OOP: $16.00 *GULP*
Total ECB to use next time: $15.00
Not terrible, I know. And considering that's the cost of JUST the two packages of diapers anywhere else, I'm not feeling too awful. But it is one of my worst shopping trips ever as far as OOP costs go.
Regardless of my shame, I am glad to say that we should be set on toilet paper, paper towel, diapers, bandaids, baby wash, pantyliners, Q-tips, and DEFINITELY baby wipes for quite some time!
I also want to mention that the Huggies Supreme refill baby wipes packs were on clearance at my CVS (Note to Katy - there is a PILE of them left! Go grab them!) for just $3/pack. I used coupons, of course, which brought them down to $2 each. NICE, EH? Yep. So you might want to check that out if you need baby wipes.
As always, thanks to Crystal over at Money Saving Mom for all her hard work in posting the CVS deals each week and month!
Monday, May 19, 2008
Monday Monday - CVS Diapers on Clearance!
I typically do a few CVS shopping trips on the weekend since I am out. This weekend I picked up some things from both weeks' sales and then found that there were several packages of diapers on clearance. (Note: "were" - I completely bought them all. Typically I don't do that but seeing as they were all size 2 and that's what size my daughter is in, I did wipe them out this time.)
I don't have time to go into details right now, but here is a combination of two trips. Total OOP: Less than $5. And technically not even OOP since I have a CVS gift card right now.
*Big cheesy grin*
Okay, here it is:
Sorry about the blur. Anyway, exciting huh? :) I did have to wipe out some ECB to get the diapers but it was WELL worth it. I still have $4 left, so it will be a slow work up to where I started (around $30), but isn't that what this CVSing thing is all about? Making money so the stuff you need is free? Yep!
How have your CVS trips been lately??
I don't have time to go into details right now, but here is a combination of two trips. Total OOP: Less than $5. And technically not even OOP since I have a CVS gift card right now.
*Big cheesy grin*
Okay, here it is:
Sorry about the blur. Anyway, exciting huh? :) I did have to wipe out some ECB to get the diapers but it was WELL worth it. I still have $4 left, so it will be a slow work up to where I started (around $30), but isn't that what this CVSing thing is all about? Making money so the stuff you need is free? Yep!
How have your CVS trips been lately??
Wednesday, April 30, 2008
I've Saved $900 This Year At CVS!!!
I went to CVS last night and after I left, I looked at my receipt.
Year to Date Savings: $888.84
Spring 2008 Spending: $44.40 (which is pretty close to what my winter spending was too!)
I would like to give a formal thanks to Crystal over at Money Saving Mom for her dedication to helping us "newbies" learn how to play the CVS game.
But let's look at this more closely for just a second. Let's say I've spent a total of $100 so far this year at CVS (which is pretty accurate). That amount includes AT LEAST a dozen packages of diapers. Well, for a dozen packages of diapers, that sounds pretty average - a little over $8/package. But that also includes HUNDREDS of other products - razors, razor cartridges, shampoos, conditioners, toothbrushes, toothpastes, body washes, soaps, lotions, pain meds, diabetes meters, candy, MILK, cleaning products....the list goes on and on.
In addition to all the stuff I have used (namely diapers), I have been able to give away huge lots of personal hygiene items and look at what I have left (and this is not all of it):
Many people ask me, "Why would you buy all that stuff if you don't need it?"
Well, that's easy! "To give it away!"
Since you can actually MAKE money on many items at CVS and can get SO many items for free, why not buy them for someone who could use them?
"But it takes so much time....is it really worth it?"
Well, you tell me! :)
So now I'm curious. For all of you who play "the CVS game", how much have you spent and how much have you saved this year??
Year to Date Savings: $888.84
Spring 2008 Spending: $44.40 (which is pretty close to what my winter spending was too!)
I would like to give a formal thanks to Crystal over at Money Saving Mom for her dedication to helping us "newbies" learn how to play the CVS game.
But let's look at this more closely for just a second. Let's say I've spent a total of $100 so far this year at CVS (which is pretty accurate). That amount includes AT LEAST a dozen packages of diapers. Well, for a dozen packages of diapers, that sounds pretty average - a little over $8/package. But that also includes HUNDREDS of other products - razors, razor cartridges, shampoos, conditioners, toothbrushes, toothpastes, body washes, soaps, lotions, pain meds, diabetes meters, candy, MILK, cleaning products....the list goes on and on.
In addition to all the stuff I have used (namely diapers), I have been able to give away huge lots of personal hygiene items and look at what I have left (and this is not all of it):
Many people ask me, "Why would you buy all that stuff if you don't need it?"
Well, that's easy! "To give it away!"
Since you can actually MAKE money on many items at CVS and can get SO many items for free, why not buy them for someone who could use them?
"But it takes so much time....is it really worth it?"
Well, you tell me! :)
So now I'm curious. For all of you who play "the CVS game", how much have you spent and how much have you saved this year??
Monday, April 21, 2008
Money Monday - CVS Scenarios For April 20-26
I don't see a lot of real moneymakers this week, but there are lots of freebies. Here is what I plan to do this week:
Spend $10 (to get 1 deodorant, 2 pkgs of Alavert, 2 Maybelline Lip products, 1 Skin Effects beauty product, 1 Body Aktiva, and 2 Softsoap body washes), Get $13 ECB back!
Transaction #1:
(1) Mennen Speed Stick deodorant @ $3.99
(2) pkgs of Alavert @ $6.99
Use (1) $1/1 printable here or here or from 3/30 SmartSource insert and (2) $4/1 Alavert coupons found here.
Total OOP: approx $8.97 + tax
ECB back: $11.99 ($8 and $3.99)
Transaction #2:
(2) Maybelline Moise Extreme Lip @ 2/$9.99
(1) Skin Effects product @ $6.99
(1) Lumene Body Aktiva @ $1.99
Use (2) $2/1 Maybelline coupons from 2/10 Redplum insert, $2/1 Skin Effects from Beauty Handbook (at CVS), and $11.99 ECB.
Total OOP: approx $.98 + tax
ECB back: $12.99 (a $6, a $5, and a $1.99)
Transaction #3:
(2) Softsoap Spa Radience (18oz.) @ $5.49
Use $11 ECB.
Total OOP: $0
ECB back: $10.98
Spend $10 (to get 1 deodorant, 2 pkgs of Alavert, 2 Maybelline Lip products, 1 Skin Effects beauty product, 1 Body Aktiva, and 2 Softsoap body washes), Get $13 ECB back!
Transaction #1:
(1) Mennen Speed Stick deodorant @ $3.99
(2) pkgs of Alavert @ $6.99
Use (1) $1/1 printable here or here or from 3/30 SmartSource insert and (2) $4/1 Alavert coupons found here.
Total OOP: approx $8.97 + tax
ECB back: $11.99 ($8 and $3.99)
Transaction #2:
(2) Maybelline Moise Extreme Lip @ 2/$9.99
(1) Skin Effects product @ $6.99
(1) Lumene Body Aktiva @ $1.99
Use (2) $2/1 Maybelline coupons from 2/10 Redplum insert, $2/1 Skin Effects from Beauty Handbook (at CVS), and $11.99 ECB.
Total OOP: approx $.98 + tax
ECB back: $12.99 (a $6, a $5, and a $1.99)
Transaction #3:
(2) Softsoap Spa Radience (18oz.) @ $5.49
Use $11 ECB.
Total OOP: $0
ECB back: $10.98
Money Monday - I Heart Free Diapers :)
Last week at CVS, they were running a BOGO sale on the CVS brand diapers. I had purchased the Contour Meter with coupon earlier in the week, so I had gotten $14.99 ECB for paying $1.05 in tax. Since I needed diapers, I took advantage of the great sale!
I got 4 packages of diapers, 3 Adidas deoderants, and 2 Cover Girl foundations for about $2.
My transaction looked like this:
4 pks diapers (BOGO @ $8.99 each)
3 deoderants @ $4.99 each
2 Cover Girl powder foundations (BOGO @ 7.49 each)
I used a $3/$10 CVS coupon, a BOGO Covergirl coupon, 3 coupons for a free Adidas deoderant, and my $14.99 ECB.
Total OOP: approx. $2
A pretty good deal, if you ask me. :)
I got 4 packages of diapers, 3 Adidas deoderants, and 2 Cover Girl foundations for about $2.
My transaction looked like this:
4 pks diapers (BOGO @ $8.99 each)
3 deoderants @ $4.99 each
2 Cover Girl powder foundations (BOGO @ 7.49 each)
I used a $3/$10 CVS coupon, a BOGO Covergirl coupon, 3 coupons for a free Adidas deoderant, and my $14.99 ECB.
Total OOP: approx. $2
A pretty good deal, if you ask me. :)
Thursday, April 17, 2008
CVS Is Getting Smarter
I noticed that there are several things in next month's ECB catalog that are free after ECB. That's good, right? Well, yeah - but it would be better if they had run that ad before the coupons for those products expire! For example, Adidas deoderants and Colgate 360 toothbrushes.
I am going to go to CVS on April 26th (which is the day these coupons expire) and see if they might, by some chance, be doing the May ECB deals already. Either that, or find a CVS that accepts expired manufacturer coupons. I have to admit I've never tried using an expired coupon at my CVS before, but I heard from a couponer that I ran into once that "they all do".
So I'm curious....Does your CVS accept expired manufacturer coupons??
I am going to go to CVS on April 26th (which is the day these coupons expire) and see if they might, by some chance, be doing the May ECB deals already. Either that, or find a CVS that accepts expired manufacturer coupons. I have to admit I've never tried using an expired coupon at my CVS before, but I heard from a couponer that I ran into once that "they all do".
So I'm curious....Does your CVS accept expired manufacturer coupons??
Monday, April 14, 2008
Great Beginner Deals At CVS!
If you have never been to CVS before with the intention of making money by playing "the CVS game", this is a prime week to begin!
In order for this week to profit you in the best way possible, you will need to have the coupon inserts from the past several Sundays. This week, you can spend just $1 out-of-pocket and get $26.48 back!!
Pull out the following coupons for your trip:
$2/1 Benefiber (from 4/13 - this coupon was also in the paper a few weeks ago) - use both if you have two coupons
$30/1 Contour Meter (from 3/16)
$2/1 Pepcid EZ Chews (from 4/6)
$1.50/1 Softsoap body wash (from 3/30)
Also, pull out these inserts to be sent in for manufacturer rebates:
$5.50 MIR when you buy Pepcid EZ Chews (from 4/6)
$5.99 MIR when you buy any (1) Benefiber product (from 4/13)
Now, fill your cart with (2) Benefibers (supposedly these start @ $4.99, but I'm going to say $6.99 since that's what I saw them for), (1) Contour Meter, (1) Pepcid EZ Chews, and (1) Softsoap Spa body wash (or more if you have more coupons!).
These are the deals you're going to be using:
Buy 1 Softsoap Spa @ $4.99, Get $4.99 ECB (Limit 5)
Buy 1 Pepcid EZ Chews @ $7.99, Get $5 ECB (Limit 1)
Buy any 2 Benefiber, Maalox, Gas-X, Ex-Lax, or Perdium products (prices starting @ $4.49 each), Get $10 ECB (Limit 1)
Buy 1 Contour Meter @ $14.99, Get $14.99 ECB (Limit 1)
To get the most "bang for your buck", purchase your items in this order:
If you don't have a CVS Extra Care Bucks card, get one before you begin your transactions! They have them at the register. Also, don't forget to scan your card at the electronic kiosk (if your store has one) for extra coupons!
Transaction #1:
(1) Contour Meter @ $14.99
Total: $14.99
Use $30/1 coupon (They will have to adjust this coupon down to $14.99).
Total OOP: $0
ECB earned: $14.99
Transaction #2:
(2) Benefibers @ $6.99 each
(1) Pepcid EZ Chew @ $7.99
UPDATE: I've been told the Pepcid EZ Chews have gone back up to $10.49, which kind of spoils this deal. However, you could still do the deal and come out $2 ahead - you would just have to fork out the extra cash (or pay with ECB) and then wait for your manufacturer rebate to get your money back.
Total: $21.97
Use (2) $2/1 Benefiber coupons, $2/1 Pepcid coupon, and $14.99 ECB (from previous transaction).
Total OOP: approx. $1
ECB earned: $15 (a $5 and a $10)
Transaction #3:
(1) Softsoap Spa body wash @ $4.99
any random $1.50 item that you need
Total: approximately $6.49
Use $1.50/1 Softsoap coupon and $5 ECB (from previous transaction).
Total OOP: $0
ECB earned: $4.99
You now have $14.99 ECB to use later! You got a Contour Meter (donate to someone with diabetes), a body wash, 2 Benefibers, and a box of Pepcid EZ Chews for just $1 OOP!!! In addition to that, you can send it to get another $11.49 in cash with your manufacturer rebates!
Please let me know if you try this! I know some people have been reporting the Softsoap body wash as out-of-stock in many locations. But make sure you get a rain check if that's the case! Also, please let me know if you see any mistakes. :)
HAPPY SHOPPING!!!! :)
In order for this week to profit you in the best way possible, you will need to have the coupon inserts from the past several Sundays. This week, you can spend just $1 out-of-pocket and get $26.48 back!!
Pull out the following coupons for your trip:
$2/1 Benefiber (from 4/13 - this coupon was also in the paper a few weeks ago) - use both if you have two coupons
$30/1 Contour Meter (from 3/16)
$2/1 Pepcid EZ Chews (from 4/6)
$1.50/1 Softsoap body wash (from 3/30)
Also, pull out these inserts to be sent in for manufacturer rebates:
$5.50 MIR when you buy Pepcid EZ Chews (from 4/6)
$5.99 MIR when you buy any (1) Benefiber product (from 4/13)
Now, fill your cart with (2) Benefibers (supposedly these start @ $4.99, but I'm going to say $6.99 since that's what I saw them for), (1) Contour Meter, (1) Pepcid EZ Chews, and (1) Softsoap Spa body wash (or more if you have more coupons!).
These are the deals you're going to be using:
Buy 1 Softsoap Spa @ $4.99, Get $4.99 ECB (Limit 5)
Buy 1 Pepcid EZ Chews @ $7.99, Get $5 ECB (Limit 1)
Buy any 2 Benefiber, Maalox, Gas-X, Ex-Lax, or Perdium products (prices starting @ $4.49 each), Get $10 ECB (Limit 1)
Buy 1 Contour Meter @ $14.99, Get $14.99 ECB (Limit 1)
To get the most "bang for your buck", purchase your items in this order:
If you don't have a CVS Extra Care Bucks card, get one before you begin your transactions! They have them at the register. Also, don't forget to scan your card at the electronic kiosk (if your store has one) for extra coupons!
Transaction #1:
(1) Contour Meter @ $14.99
Total: $14.99
Use $30/1 coupon (They will have to adjust this coupon down to $14.99).
Total OOP: $0
ECB earned: $14.99
Transaction #2:
(2) Benefibers @ $6.99 each
(1) Pepcid EZ Chew @ $7.99
UPDATE: I've been told the Pepcid EZ Chews have gone back up to $10.49, which kind of spoils this deal. However, you could still do the deal and come out $2 ahead - you would just have to fork out the extra cash (or pay with ECB) and then wait for your manufacturer rebate to get your money back.
Total: $21.97
Use (2) $2/1 Benefiber coupons, $2/1 Pepcid coupon, and $14.99 ECB (from previous transaction).
Total OOP: approx. $1
ECB earned: $15 (a $5 and a $10)
Transaction #3:
(1) Softsoap Spa body wash @ $4.99
any random $1.50 item that you need
Total: approximately $6.49
Use $1.50/1 Softsoap coupon and $5 ECB (from previous transaction).
Total OOP: $0
ECB earned: $4.99
You now have $14.99 ECB to use later! You got a Contour Meter (donate to someone with diabetes), a body wash, 2 Benefibers, and a box of Pepcid EZ Chews for just $1 OOP!!! In addition to that, you can send it to get another $11.49 in cash with your manufacturer rebates!
Please let me know if you try this! I know some people have been reporting the Softsoap body wash as out-of-stock in many locations. But make sure you get a rain check if that's the case! Also, please let me know if you see any mistakes. :)
HAPPY SHOPPING!!!! :)
Friday, April 11, 2008
CVS Scenarios For This Week
Sorry this took me so long to post! Being sick last weekend just sucked all of my energy and I'm apparently still recovering. I didn't find this week to be ultra fantastic, but since these scenarios mostly revolve around things I actually need (deoderant and diapers), it turned out to be a fairly decent week:
Transaction 1:
(2) Degree deoderants @ $2.50 each
(3) Sunsilk stylers @ $3.49 each
(2) Covergirl TruBlend Whipped Foundation $10.99 each
Use $1/2 Degree coupon, $1.50/1 Sunsilk coupons, and BOGO Covergirl coupon from this week's paper and $2/1 Covergirl coupon from CVS's Reinventing Beauty catalog. (Or if you still have $2.50/1 Sunsilk coupons from a few months ago, those would be an even better deal!)
Total before coupons: $33.96
Total after coupons: $15.47
Pay with ECB, of course! :)
Receive $17 ECB back (a $5 and a $12).
Transaction #2:
(4) CVS Rapid Release pain reliever @ $3.99 each
(1) Lumene Body Aktiva @ $1.99 each
If you have one, use a $3/$10 CVS brand coupon.
Total before coupon: $17.95
Total after coupon: $14.95
Pay with $15 ECB.
Receive $17.95 ECB back (a $1.99 and a $15.96).
Transaction #3:
(3) pks of Huggies diapers @ $8.99 each
Use 3 $1/1 Huggies coupons (and if you have a $4/$20 CVS coupon, use that too).
Total before coupons: $26.97
Total after coupons: $23.97 (or $19.97)
Pay with $17.95 ECB. Total OOP: $6 (or $2)
Receive $10 ECB back.
What deals did you find at CVS this week??
Transaction 1:
(2) Degree deoderants @ $2.50 each
(3) Sunsilk stylers @ $3.49 each
(2) Covergirl TruBlend Whipped Foundation $10.99 each
Use $1/2 Degree coupon, $1.50/1 Sunsilk coupons, and BOGO Covergirl coupon from this week's paper and $2/1 Covergirl coupon from CVS's Reinventing Beauty catalog. (Or if you still have $2.50/1 Sunsilk coupons from a few months ago, those would be an even better deal!)
Total before coupons: $33.96
Total after coupons: $15.47
Pay with ECB, of course! :)
Receive $17 ECB back (a $5 and a $12).
Transaction #2:
(4) CVS Rapid Release pain reliever @ $3.99 each
(1) Lumene Body Aktiva @ $1.99 each
If you have one, use a $3/$10 CVS brand coupon.
Total before coupon: $17.95
Total after coupon: $14.95
Pay with $15 ECB.
Receive $17.95 ECB back (a $1.99 and a $15.96).
Transaction #3:
(3) pks of Huggies diapers @ $8.99 each
Use 3 $1/1 Huggies coupons (and if you have a $4/$20 CVS coupon, use that too).
Total before coupons: $26.97
Total after coupons: $23.97 (or $19.97)
Pay with $17.95 ECB. Total OOP: $6 (or $2)
Receive $10 ECB back.
What deals did you find at CVS this week??
Wednesday, April 9, 2008
More CVS For Beginners!
I have yet to make my weekly trek to CVS this week, but I do know that I will be taking advantage of the diaper deal (Buy $25 of select baby products, Get $10 ECB), since we have two toddlers and an infant in our home!
Because I'm still recovering from being sick, I haven't put together any new beginner deals for this week, but I adjusted last week's post for beginners to exclude the Glucerna deal (since that deal was only good last week). The rest of the deals posted were monthly, so in case you did not make it to CVS last week for you very first trip, here is the updated version:
Spend $3.92 and Get $13.99 ECB back! (This could be even better if you have $3/$10 or $4/$20 CVS coupons).
A few other people have put together beginner deals for this week:
Bethany @ Because I've Been Blessed shows how you can get about $71 worth of products for $14-16 out of pocket, AND you'll still have $13.97 to use on future purchases here.
Rebecca @ A Stirring Life shows how you can spend $1 OOP and get $14 in ECB here!
What are you getting this week??
Because I'm still recovering from being sick, I haven't put together any new beginner deals for this week, but I adjusted last week's post for beginners to exclude the Glucerna deal (since that deal was only good last week). The rest of the deals posted were monthly, so in case you did not make it to CVS last week for you very first trip, here is the updated version:
Spend $3.92 and Get $13.99 ECB back! (This could be even better if you have $3/$10 or $4/$20 CVS coupons).
---------------------------------------------------
Transaction #1:
3 toe dividers @ 99 cents each
Total: $2.97
Total OOP: $2.97
ECB back: $5
---------------------------------------------------
Transaction #2:
5 toe dividers @ 99 cents each
Total: $4.95
Use $5 ECB.
Total OOP: $0
ECB back: $5
---------------------------------------------------
Transaction #3:
1 Softsoap body wash @ $4.99
1 toe divider @ 99 cents each
Total: $5.98
Use $1/1 Softsoap coupon and $5 ECB.
Total OOP: $0
ECB back: $9.99 (a $4.99 and a $5.00)
----------------------------------------------------
Transaction #4:
1 CVS Rapid Release 24ct Pain Reliever @ $3.99
6 toe dividers @ 99 cents each
Total: $9.93
Use $9.99 ECB.
Total OOP: $0
ECB back: $13.99 (a $3.99 and a $10.00)
----------------------------------------------------
Transaction #5:
1 CVS Rapid Release 24ct Pain Reliever @ $3.99 each
Total: $3.99
Use $3.99 ECB.
Total OOP: $0
ECB back: $3.99
Please let me know if you see any mistakes. :)
A few other people have put together beginner deals for this week:
Bethany @ Because I've Been Blessed shows how you can get about $71 worth of products for $14-16 out of pocket, AND you'll still have $13.97 to use on future purchases here.
Rebecca @ A Stirring Life shows how you can spend $1 OOP and get $14 in ECB here!
What are you getting this week??
Monday, April 7, 2008
Money Monday - Weekly CVS Shop
Since I was sick all weekend, this is actually last week's shop. I am looking forward to figuring out what to buy this week and posting some ideas here, but so far my head only allows me to do so much. I think this is all I can get to tonight, but feel free to email me with CVS scenarios and I will gladly post them here!
I was desperately in need of diapers last week, so I bought a few packages of those since they were on sale 2/$12. I obviously didn't need 15 sets of toe separators, but due to the great ECB deal, I actually made $10 by buying all of them.
Transaction #1:
(3) Softsoap bodywash @ $4.99 each
(6) toe separators @ 99 cents each
Total before coupons: $20.90 + tax
Used 3 $1.50/1 Softsoap coupons and $16 ECB.
Total OOP: 80 cents (paid for with CVS gift card)
ECB earned: $24.97 ($14.97 and $10)
Transaction #2:
(2) pkgs CVS diapers @ $6.00 each
(3) toe separators @ 99 cents each
Total before coupons: $14.97 + tax
Used $3/$10 CVS and $11 ECB.
Total OOP: $1.04 (paid for with CVS gift card)
ECB earned: $5
Transaction #3:
(3) bottles CVS Rapid Release @ $3.99 each
(6) toe separators @ 99 cents each
(2) 8-ct boxes Glucerna snack bars @ $5.49 each
(1) CVS brand Neosporin @ $4.49
Total before coupons: $33.38 + tax
Used $10/2 Glucerna products coupon and $20.50 ECB.
Total OOP: $3.05 (paid for with CVS gift card)
ECB earned: $21.97 ($10 and $11.97)
So....not too bad, eh? :)
I was desperately in need of diapers last week, so I bought a few packages of those since they were on sale 2/$12. I obviously didn't need 15 sets of toe separators, but due to the great ECB deal, I actually made $10 by buying all of them.
Transaction #1:
(3) Softsoap bodywash @ $4.99 each
(6) toe separators @ 99 cents each
Total before coupons: $20.90 + tax
Used 3 $1.50/1 Softsoap coupons and $16 ECB.
Total OOP: 80 cents (paid for with CVS gift card)
ECB earned: $24.97 ($14.97 and $10)
Transaction #2:
(2) pkgs CVS diapers @ $6.00 each
(3) toe separators @ 99 cents each
Total before coupons: $14.97 + tax
Used $3/$10 CVS and $11 ECB.
Total OOP: $1.04 (paid for with CVS gift card)
ECB earned: $5
Transaction #3:
(3) bottles CVS Rapid Release @ $3.99 each
(6) toe separators @ 99 cents each
(2) 8-ct boxes Glucerna snack bars @ $5.49 each
(1) CVS brand Neosporin @ $4.49
Total before coupons: $33.38 + tax
Used $10/2 Glucerna products coupon and $20.50 ECB.
Total OOP: $3.05 (paid for with CVS gift card)
ECB earned: $21.97 ($10 and $11.97)
So....not too bad, eh? :)
Wednesday, April 2, 2008
Just Pretend It's Monday! - CVS For Beginners!
I realize that Wednesdays are not usually about money, but I just have to tell everyone that if you have not yet started playing the CVS game, this would be a GREAT week to start!
For just $1.57 you can get 2 boxes of snack bars, 15 sets of toe dividers, 2 bottles of body wash, and 3 boxes of (CVS brand) Tylenol! In addition to that, you'll be receiving $16.97 back in ECB (Extra Care Bucks - i.e. CVS money) to use at a later date!
Now before you tell me that you don't NEED 15 sets of toe dividers, let me remind you that there are women's shelters all over the country. While women NEED certain items, don't you think they would love to get something FUN too? Or wouldn't you love to host a girl's night out and be able to give everyone their own set of FREE toe dividers for those pedicures you're going to do? Ok, so that excuse is out.
Now, onto the good stuff. In order to play this game, you must split up your transactions. Our CVS is the slowest early in the mornings, so if possible, you might want to go then. If not, just apologize profusely to the people in line behind you while you make them wait. (There's a good chance they'll be in awe of your savings anyway and won't mind waiting so long!)
Before you begin, you will need to print out the following coupons:
$1/1 Softsoap coupon - Once you print this, hit the back button and you should be able to print it again. (Or if you get the paper, there was a $1.50/1 Softsoap Body Wash coupon in this week's coupon insert. That would be an even better deal!)
$10 Glucerna coupon - This one is a little trickier, but it's well worth the 2 minutes it takes to figure it out! Register at the Glucerna website. After you register, sign up for the "Control Plan for Weight Loss" feature. When you have finished that, go to "My Profile" at top of page by the sign out button, then click on "Control Plan for Weight Loss" under the light blue section. There you should find a printable $10 coupon. If you for some reason, you cannot find it, never fear - there is probably one being sent to your inbox.
Now jump in your car and RACE to CVS! Well, okay - drive the speed limit. Once you get there, fill your cart with the following:
(15) Essence of Beauty toe divider sets (These were a little hard to find at my store. Look all around the HBA section or just ask an employee. Also, make sure there is a SET and not just one - they tend to fall apart very easily.)
UPDATE: I have been informed that ONLY the toe dividers with the following UPC code will work for this deal: 050428072981. Any other toe divider won't work.
(3) boxes of 24ct CVS brand Rapid Release Pain Reliever (Tylenol knock-off)
(2) bottles of Softsoap Spa Radient body wash (the green one)
(2) boxes of Glucerna 4-ct mini snack bars
UPDATE: I apparently can't add. You will need to purchase either (2) boxes of the 8-ct bars, which are on sale for $5.49 each or 1 package of the shakes, which are $10.49 in order to reach the $10 Abbott limit and therefore receive your ECB on that deal. If you already bought the two smaller boxes and did not receive your ECB due to the total amount being insufficient, I believe the Zone power bars are included in the Abbott deal. They are $1.19 this week and there was a recent coupon for $1/1 in the Sunday paper. But double check that, because I'm not positive.
Also, look for a "scan your card for savings" electronic box in your store. Some stores don't have them, but most do. You can only scan once per day. They print out CVS coupons, so be sure to scan your card every time you go! (They expire quickly though, so watch the expiration dates!)
Here are the ECB deals you will be using:
Buy any 3 Essence of Beauty products, Get $5 ECB (Limit 5)
Buy 24ct CVS Rapid Release Pain Reliver @ $3.99, Get $3.99 ECB (Limit 5)
Buy 1 Softsoap Spa Radience Body Wash @ $4.99, Get $4.99 ECB (Limit 5)
Buy $10 Abbott Nutrition Products, Get $2 ECB (Limit 5)
When you get to the register, here's how to work your transactions to get the most for your money. (Feel free to print this out and use it as a guide):
IF YOU DO NOT YET HAVE A CVS CARD, GET ONE NOW FROM THE CASHIER. YES, IT IS ABSOLUTELY NECESSARY. The cashiers are usually great about scanning it, but just in case, make SURE they scan your card with EVERY transaction.
Also before I begin, note that all of my cost numbers are pre-tax, so you may have slightly different numbers once you get there.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Transaction #1:
2 boxes Glucerna 4-ct snack bars @ $4.69 each
1 toe divider @ 99 cents
Total: $10.57
Use $10 Glucerna coupon.
Total OOP (out of pocket): 57 cents
ECB back: $2
For the Glucerna deal, you could also get 2 boxes of the 8-ct snack bars @ $5.49 each or 1 multi-pack of Glucerna drinks @ $10.49. You would just have a little bit more out of pocket to begin with.
---------------------------------------------------
Transaction #2:
2 toe dividers @ 99 cents each
Total: $1.98
Use $2 ECB.
Total OOP: $0
ECB back: $5
---------------------------------------------------
Transaction #3:
1 Softsoap body wash @ $4.99
2 toe dividers @ 99 cents each
Total: $6.97
Use $1/1 Softsoap coupon and $5 ECB.
Total OOP: $.50
ECB back: $4.99
---------------------------------------------------
Transaction #4:
1 Softsoap body wash @ $4.99
2 toe dividers @ 99 cents each
Total: $6.79
Use $1/1 Softsoap coupon and $4.99 ECB.
Total OOP: $.50
ECB back: $9.99 (a $4.99 and a $5.00)
----------------------------------------------------
Transaction #5:
1 CVS Rapid Release 24ct Pain Reliever @ $3.99
6 toe dividers @ 99 cents each
Total: $9.93
Use $9.99 ECB.
Total OOP: $0
ECB back: $13.99 (a $3.99 and a $10.00)
----------------------------------------------------
Transaction #6:
2 CVS Rapid Release 24ct Pain Reliever @ $3.99 each
2 toe dividers @ 99 cents each
Total: $9.96
Use $10 ECB.
Total OOP: $0
ECB back: $12.98 (a $5.00 and a $7.98)
You still have $3.99 in ECB from Transaction #5, so you have a total of $16.97 in ECB to spend later! (But don't wait TOO long - these have an expiration date too!)
I want to mention also that IF you scanned your card and happened to get a $3/$10 CVS brand purchase coupon (sometimes these coupons print out from the electronic box OR at the bottom of your receipt), Transaction #6 would be a great transaction to use that on! Just throw in another box of the CVS Rapid Release. Your OOP will go up $1, but you'll get another $3.99 ECB back!
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
If it looks confusing (and I can imagine it does), it's really not. You'll pick it up quickly and never go back to shopping the way you used to! Seriously! And you don't have to all those transactions in the same day. You can go a few times if you prefer to be more thoughtful to the people in line behind you. :)
All in all, if you try it out and decide it's not for you, at least you now have $16.97 to blow at CVS on whatever you need! :)
If, for some reason, your ECB don't print like they should, you can call the 800 number and they will fix it for you. Candace posted about this here.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
On a fairly unrelated note, TODAY ONLY is free ink refills (color or black) at Walgreens. The limit is one per person, so take your spouse with you if you want to fill both for free! Be sure to print out this coupon and take it with you!
Monday, March 31, 2008
Money Monday - CVS
There are not a lot of excellent deals at CVS right now, but I picked up a few things this past weekend.
Transaction #1:
I went in to CVS to scan my card and to see if they had the vitamins in stock yet. They did not, but as I was walking past an isle a 75% off CLEARANCE tag caught my eye. These NexCare products were 75% off AND were a monthly ECB deal! They were each on clearance for $2.50 or $3.00 and each gave $4.00 ECB back! WOO HOO! MAKING MONEY AT CVS WITHOUT COUPONS! I was so excited that I failed to check the boxes to see if there were coupons inside. Lo and behold, there was a $1/1 Nexcare coupon in each box. I was so sad when I got home - I could have made $11 instead of $6! Lol - well, okay - I wasn't that sad. I mean, I did make money on my trip. But you know. :)
Anyway, so that trip was free, since I used ECB to pay. I "paid" $14 and made $20! WHOOP!
Transaction #2:
FINALLY the vitamins were in stock! I got two softsoaps (used $1/1 coupons on each), two bottles of vitamins, and a bottle of thyme (since I am out). I "spent" $15.80 (CVS gift card) and got $15.96 back in ECB. :) A fairly successful trip.
Transaction #1:
I went in to CVS to scan my card and to see if they had the vitamins in stock yet. They did not, but as I was walking past an isle a 75% off CLEARANCE tag caught my eye. These NexCare products were 75% off AND were a monthly ECB deal! They were each on clearance for $2.50 or $3.00 and each gave $4.00 ECB back! WOO HOO! MAKING MONEY AT CVS WITHOUT COUPONS! I was so excited that I failed to check the boxes to see if there were coupons inside. Lo and behold, there was a $1/1 Nexcare coupon in each box. I was so sad when I got home - I could have made $11 instead of $6! Lol - well, okay - I wasn't that sad. I mean, I did make money on my trip. But you know. :)
Anyway, so that trip was free, since I used ECB to pay. I "paid" $14 and made $20! WHOOP!
Transaction #2:
FINALLY the vitamins were in stock! I got two softsoaps (used $1/1 coupons on each), two bottles of vitamins, and a bottle of thyme (since I am out). I "spent" $15.80 (CVS gift card) and got $15.96 back in ECB. :) A fairly successful trip.
Monday, March 17, 2008
Money Monday - CVS Is The Greatest Store On Earth
OK, I've finally updated this post.
I paid a total of $11 OOP for all of my CVS stuff.
Somehow in the midst of all the vacation mumbo jumbo, I managed to lose a few receipts so I don't know exactly how many ECB I received, but it was at least equal to what I spent. Sorry about the lack of info this week.
Here is what I picked up:
No, I don't typically buy foam bath letters during my routine CVS shops. And no, there were no ECBs generated for buying them. :) But my older daughter's birthday is coming up next week and I realized I had not bought her a present yet. So....wah-lah! Free birthday present!
I paid a total of $11 OOP for all of my CVS stuff.
Somehow in the midst of all the vacation mumbo jumbo, I managed to lose a few receipts so I don't know exactly how many ECB I received, but it was at least equal to what I spent. Sorry about the lack of info this week.
Here is what I picked up:
...and...
...and...
...and finally...
No, I don't typically buy foam bath letters during my routine CVS shops. And no, there were no ECBs generated for buying them. :) But my older daughter's birthday is coming up next week and I realized I had not bought her a present yet. So....wah-lah! Free birthday present!
Monday, March 10, 2008
Money Monday - My Best CVS Shop Yet!
Hi. My name is Heidi and I am a CVS-aholic.
This is becoming an obsession for me. Lol. Last week was an EXCELLENT week for CVS shopping and I got some GREAT deals. I sometimes shop on Saturday nights (when the sales overlap), which is what I did this weekend. So in case any of you CVS-aholics are curious, that's why I have overlapping specials. These items were purchased over a 2-day period at 3 different times in 6 transactions. It may not seem worth it to some of you, but it was totally worth it to me!
Oh, and by the way, I am SO excited! There is a new sign up the road from me. Wanna guess what it says? "Future Home of CVS" (or something to that effect)! I am psyched! Ok, but here's the part that makes me a HUGE dork. The nearest CVS right now is about 2 miles down the road. This one will be a half mile. Lol. What? I'll be saving on gas! :)
Ok, so back to what I bought this weekend. After all of my transactions, here is what I got:
This is becoming an obsession for me. Lol. Last week was an EXCELLENT week for CVS shopping and I got some GREAT deals. I sometimes shop on Saturday nights (when the sales overlap), which is what I did this weekend. So in case any of you CVS-aholics are curious, that's why I have overlapping specials. These items were purchased over a 2-day period at 3 different times in 6 transactions. It may not seem worth it to some of you, but it was totally worth it to me!
Oh, and by the way, I am SO excited! There is a new sign up the road from me. Wanna guess what it says? "Future Home of CVS" (or something to that effect)! I am psyched! Ok, but here's the part that makes me a HUGE dork. The nearest CVS right now is about 2 miles down the road. This one will be a half mile. Lol. What? I'll be saving on gas! :)
Ok, so back to what I bought this weekend. After all of my transactions, here is what I got:
1 pk of Huggies diapers
1 Fusion Razor
1 3-pk of Mach3 razors
3 bottles of Pantene shampoo/conditioner
2 bottles of Garnier Fructis shampoo/conditioner
6 bags of Hershey Kisses (various kinds)
2 bags of Cadbury Mini Eggs
1 King-sized Reese's Cup
1 bag tootsie rolls
1 bag sour gummy worms
5 Chapsticks
5 pain patches
5 Colgate Total toothpastes
1 Snickers bar
Total before coupons and sales: $133
Total after coupons, sales, and ECB: $9 !!!! (The price of the diapers alone!)
AND...the make things even better....I got $9 in ECB back! So I basically got all of that FREE!!
I think I may have mentioned this before, but I'd just like to say it again...I love CVS! :)
Now, I want to add my reason for buying all of these things. The CVS topic came up this week during playgroup and one of my friends said "Yeah, but you don't NEED all that stuff." I agree. I don't need it. BUT, I explained to her, there are people who do. I have a pile of stuff that I'm about to drop off for our church's charity organization.
This "game" is so much fun to me. And I will not need to purchase any toiletries for quite some time! Thank you, CVS!
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------
***UPDATE***
One of my readers suggested that I post exactly HOW I did all of my purchases in order to lower my total price by $124. Since that seems like a legitimate request, I will do that here:
Trans #1
1 Fusion razor $9.99 (used $4/1 coupon)
1 3-pk of Mach3 razors $7.99 (used $3/1 coupon)
1 pkg CVS Tootsie Rolls $.99 (used $.99/1 candy coupon)
Used $6 in ECB. Paid $5.70 OOP. Got $11 ECB back ($6 from Fusion, $5 from Mach3).
Trans #2
5 pain patches $1.99 each
1 King-size Reese's $.99
Used $10.94 ECB. Paid $0 OOP. Got $10 ECB back ($2 per pain patch).
Trans #3
5 Colgate Total Advance Toothpastes $2.99 each ($2.50 in various coupons)
2 Nivea shave gels $2.99 each (2 coupons for $2/1)
Used $4/$20 CVS coupon and $10 ECB. Paid $.85 OOP. Got $14.95 in ECB back ($2.99 per toothpaste).
Trans #4
5 Lypsyl chapsticks $2.99 each
Used $14.95 ECB. Paid $0 OOP. Got $14.95 back in ECB ($2.99 per Lypsyl).
Now here's where it got tricky. The system was actually unusually strange and I still haven't quite figured out if I got a better deal or a worse deal because of it. This is not how I planned to do things, but this is how it worked out:
Trans #5
3 Pantene shampoo/conditioner $2.88 each (used 3 coupons for $2/1)
2 Garnier Fructis shampoo/conditioner $2.99 each (used 2 coupons for $1/1)
4 bags Hershey kisses $.99 each (limit of 4) (used $1.50/3 coupon)
1 bag mini Cadbury eggs $2.99
1 Snickers bar $.79
1 CVS sour gummies $.99 (used $.99/1 CVS candy coupon - printed in store)
1 pk Huggies diapers (used $1.50/1 coupon)
I also used a $5/$15 CVS coupon. Then I used $14.95 ECB. Paid $1.08 OOP. Got $4 ECB back ($2 per Garnier Fructis product).
For some reason, both the cashier and I thought I had reached my Hershey's limit (there was a Buy $10, Get $5 ECB back promotion running), but apparently not. This is where I decided to buy one more bag of kisses to make things work. When she rang it up, it rang at $.99. Typically when there is a limit of 4, it is per card. But for some reason, it seemed to be working per transaction. So I bought 3 bags of candy instead of 1 and got to use a coupon!
Trans #6
1 bag Cadbury mini eggs $.99
2 bags Hershey kisses $.99 each
Since I bought three, I could use another $1.50/3 coupon. So I did that, which brought my total to $1.65 OOP.
After I paid and my receipt printed, there was STILL no ECB printed, so the cashier just gave me a $5 gift card instead (which is better than ECB because I don't have to get my purchases exact!) And I still have the $4 from Trans #5, so I have equivalent to $9 ECB, including the gift card.
Monday, February 25, 2008
Money Monday - Free CVS Stuff!
So today I made my weekly stop at CVS. Here is what I picked up tonight for FREE: 
6 boxes of Kleenex
6 mini candy bars pkgs (8 each)
3 Wonka creme eggs
1 movie-sized box of Nerds
2 boxes Nips (caramel hard candies)
1 3-pk Irish Spring soap
1 Valentine's Day gift bag (on clearance 90% off)
-------------------------------------------------------------------
Total before coupons/sales: $29
Total ECB used: $15.00
Total OOP: $0
Total ECB earned: $6
-------------------------------------------------------------------I know...not as great of a deal as last week, but we really needed Kleenex and uh - candy. :)
Monday, February 18, 2008
Money Monday - Another Successful CVS Shop
I have to say, I am totally in love with CVS right now.
I posted a few weeks ago about my first attempt at "the CVS game". I think this week was MUCH more successful - partly due to the fact that I have a better idea of what I'm doing and partly due to the fact that they are running some GREAT deals this week!
Here is what I got:
I posted a few weeks ago about my first attempt at "the CVS game". I think this week was MUCH more successful - partly due to the fact that I have a better idea of what I'm doing and partly due to the fact that they are running some GREAT deals this week!
Here is what I got:
2 bags of Dove chocolates
1 Fusion razor
6 tubes of Colgate toothpaste
2 pkgs Pull-Ups
1 pkg Huggies diapers
1 refill pkg baby wipes
Total before sales/coupons: $94.63
Total ECB used: $26
Total out of pocket: $15.60
Total ECB earned: $15.00
So it's like I paid 60 cents for all that! I'm so excited! :)
Monday, February 4, 2008
Money Monday - The CVS Game
I'm SO excited about this new task I've taken on. Spend a tiny bit of money to get a HUGE amount of stuff, and in the process, get things to give away to those who are in need! This particular journey is sometimes referred to as "the CVS game".
For those of you who are not familiar with "the CVS game", let me take a moment to explain:
CVS has a program called Extra Care Bucks. It is simply an in-store rebate that can be applied to any future purchases you make at CVS. In essense, CVS-only money. Each week, there are several items in the store that, when purchased, will give you a full refund in ECB (Extra Care Bucks). So, as long as you plan to buy something - anything - at CVS in the future, it's like getting your purchase for free. In addition to these ECB, you can also use manufacturer coupons on top of any current CVS coupons (usually something like $3/$15 purchase).
Oftentimes, with coupons, you can actually make money by shopping. (Again - not real money, CVS money).
Once you get the ECB rolling, you pay hardly anything out of pocket for your purchases - that is, as long as you stick to things that have ECB rewards and things for which you have coupons.
I have been collecting coupons for a few weeks now and yesterday I made my first trip to CVS to try out this "game".
Here is what I bought:
1 bottle of Garnier Fructis shampoo
5 large tubes of Colgate Total toothpaste (which happens to be my FAVORITE toothpaste!)
2 large bags of M&Ms
1 Maybelline trio eyeshadow kit
All of these things had ECB rewards and I had manufacturer coupons for all of them, along with a CVS coupon, so in the end....
Total before coupons: $23.48
Total after coupons: $14.23
Total ECB earned (remember - CVS money): $16.48
In addition to getting all of those products *technically* free, I "got paid" $2.25 to shop at CVS! The way the game is played, though, has little to do with what you actually need. You simply buy things that will be free with ECB that you also have a coupon for in order to earn ECB to spend on things you actually DO need. Then, you can give away all those things you got that you didn't need to charity!
Coming later today: Money Monday - Budget, Part 3
For those of you who are not familiar with "the CVS game", let me take a moment to explain:
CVS has a program called Extra Care Bucks. It is simply an in-store rebate that can be applied to any future purchases you make at CVS. In essense, CVS-only money. Each week, there are several items in the store that, when purchased, will give you a full refund in ECB (Extra Care Bucks). So, as long as you plan to buy something - anything - at CVS in the future, it's like getting your purchase for free. In addition to these ECB, you can also use manufacturer coupons on top of any current CVS coupons (usually something like $3/$15 purchase).
Oftentimes, with coupons, you can actually make money by shopping. (Again - not real money, CVS money).
Once you get the ECB rolling, you pay hardly anything out of pocket for your purchases - that is, as long as you stick to things that have ECB rewards and things for which you have coupons.
I have been collecting coupons for a few weeks now and yesterday I made my first trip to CVS to try out this "game".
Here is what I bought:
1 bottle of Garnier Fructis shampoo
5 large tubes of Colgate Total toothpaste (which happens to be my FAVORITE toothpaste!)
2 large bags of M&Ms
1 Maybelline trio eyeshadow kit
All of these things had ECB rewards and I had manufacturer coupons for all of them, along with a CVS coupon, so in the end....
Total before coupons: $23.48
Total after coupons: $14.23
Total ECB earned (remember - CVS money): $16.48
In addition to getting all of those products *technically* free, I "got paid" $2.25 to shop at CVS! The way the game is played, though, has little to do with what you actually need. You simply buy things that will be free with ECB that you also have a coupon for in order to earn ECB to spend on things you actually DO need. Then, you can give away all those things you got that you didn't need to charity!
Coming later today: Money Monday - Budget, Part 3
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)