Know your prices, so you know when to STOCK UP!
The purpose of couponing is to save money and the best way to save money is to build a mini stock pile. It doesn't have to be anything crazy but if you can buy enough to make it to the next sale, you'll never pay full price for anything again, thus saving you lots of money!
You'll spend a bit more on items when you're new to couponing because it will already seem like a deal to you. Dish soap for .50? Yes please!! However, over time, you'll realize that you can get it for completely FREE. So know your prices, so you know when it's a good time to stock up.
Some items that go on sale frequently and with coupons can be totally free: Cheaper Shampoos, (VO5, Suave, Tresemme, etc;) conditioner, toothpaste, razors, body wash, deodorant, mustard and other condiments, seasoning packets.
A decent stock up price for all name brand cereals is $.50 or less per box.
Items that are good to stock up on if they're roughly a dollar or less: Laundry detergent, softener, More expensive shampoos (Pantene, Herbal Essences, Garnier Fructis, etc;) Whitening toothpastes, Mouthwash, yogurts.
Toilet Paper and Paper Towels in Quantity of 12 or more will usually be around $3.00 or so. So anywhere around there is a good stock up price.
Stocking up does not mean turning your house into an episode of hoarders but it does mean having a stock of items that will last your family about 3-6 months.