Coupon Trains: The Pros and Cons

There are a few pros and cons to joining a coupon train.

The Pros - Joining a coupon train can be a great way to get more of the coupons you can use and get rid of the coupons you can't use. In addition, you might discover some good coupons that you didn't know about.

They are very easy and quick to do. When you get the train in the mail, simply go through the coupons, take out the ones you can use, take out the expired coupons, replace them with coupons you don't want and mail to the next person.

Yes, you do have to pay for the cost of a stamp to mail to the next person, however if you find $5.00 or $10.00 in coupons you are able to use it more than enough pays for the stamp.

The Cons - Sometimes you might get a train and there is absolutely nothing you can use. You don't get anything in return but you are still responsible for mailing it back out to the next person. This can really suck, but I have found it not to happen that often. I more than make up for it on other trains where there are several coupons I can use.

If you are not good at keeping up with things, coupon trains might not be for you. Most coupon trains ask that you mail out the train in a couple days of receiving it. This way the train can get around to everyone in a timely manner.

So, you say you want to give a coupon train a try. Where can I find one?

Yahoo Groups have all kinds of coupon trading and coupon sharing groups. Sometimes you can even find a group in your own area. If not, you can start your own group if you want. Every group is different and has their own rules so before joining a group make sure you read the rules. In addition, some groups will allow anyone to join while others are private; it all depends on the group administration.

MadAboutSavings.com has a coupon train forum where you can sign up for trains or even start your own. Joining a train here can be beneficial because you can post a wish list of the coupons you want - that way if anyone else on the train has what you need they can include it in the envelope. You have a better chance in getting what you need.