If you’re looking to save money on everyday items, couponing is an excellent strategy to start with. With a bit of planning and some insider tips, you can start reducing your expenses and saving on groceries, household items, and more. Here’s a beginner’s guide to couponing, designed to help you get started and maximize your savings without the stress.
1. Understand the Types of Coupons Available
To start couponing, it’s essential to understand the different types of coupons available. Here are some of the most common types you’ll encounter:
- Manufacturer Coupons: These are issued by the brand or manufacturer and can be used at any store that accepts coupons.
- Store Coupons: These are issued by individual stores (e.g., Target, Walmart) and are only valid at that specific location.
- Digital Coupons: Many stores offer digital coupons through their websites or mobile apps, making it easy to clip and save without using paper.
- Printable Coupons: Some coupons are available online in printable form. Websites like Coupons.com offer a variety of print-at-home options.
- Rebate Apps: While technically not a coupon, rebate apps like Ibotta or Rakuten offer cashback when you buy specific products.
Pro Tip: You can often stack manufacturer and store coupons for the same item, combining discounts for maximum savings.
2. Find Reliable Sources for Coupons
To coupon effectively, you need access to the right sources. Here are some reliable places to find coupons:
- Coupon Websites: Websites like DiscountMeThis, Coupons.com, and RetailMeNot are popular for finding digital and printable coupons.
- Manufacturer Websites: Many brands post coupons directly on their websites, so check the sites of brands you frequently buy.
- Store Websites and Apps: Most major retailers, including Target, Walmart, and Kroger, offer digital coupons on their apps and websites.
- Weekly Store Circulars: These are often available at the front of stores and include sales and discounts for the week. Many also contain additional coupons.
- Sunday Newspapers: Traditional paper coupons are still popular, and you can often find a variety of coupons in Sunday newspapers.
DiscountMeThis Tip: Use DiscountMeThis to find both digital and printable coupons across multiple stores, as well as exclusive promo codes and deals that can maximize your savings.
3. Get Organized: Create a System
A crucial part of couponing success is having a system to keep your coupons organized. Some beginners prefer a simple folder, while others use a more elaborate binder with tabs for different categories.
How to Get Organized:
- Coupon Binder: For paper coupons, a coupon binder with clear tabs (e.g., “Groceries,” “Household,” “Personal Care”) can help you quickly find what you need.
- Digital Apps: Keep your digital coupons organized by using store apps and rebate apps. Most apps will let you create shopping lists and add coupons to your account.
- Weekly Sorting: Make it a weekly habit to go through your coupons, remove expired ones, and add new ones to your system.
Pro Tip: Print or clip coupons only for items you plan to buy. It’s easy to get tempted by deals, but buying unnecessary items will offset any savings.
4. Learn the Basics of Coupon Stacking and Matching
Coupon stacking and matching are essential strategies that can significantly increase your savings.
- Stacking Coupons: Coupon stacking refers to using multiple coupons on the same item. For example, some stores let you stack a manufacturer coupon with a store coupon for additional savings.
- Matching Coupons with Sales: Coupon matching involves pairing your coupons with items that are already on sale. This tactic can create deep discounts, sometimes even making items free or nearly free.
How to Match Coupons with Sales:
- Look at weekly store ads to find which items are on sale.
- Use websites that specialize in “coupon matchups.” These sites list store sales and the corresponding coupons you can use.
- Try to shop during store promotions, like “Buy One, Get One Free” deals, where coupons can be applied to maximize your savings.
Pro Tip: Some stores offer double or even triple coupon days. Take advantage of these opportunities to maximize your savings.
5. Use Rebate Apps for Extra Cash Back
Rebate apps like Ibotta, Rakuten, and Checkout 51 provide cashback on specific purchases, making them excellent additions to your couponing strategy. These apps allow you to earn money on items you already planned to buy, effectively giving you a discount after the purchase.
How to Use Rebate Apps:
- Download the rebate app and create an account.
- Before you shop, check the app for deals and “activate” the offers you plan to use.
- After your purchase, take a photo of your receipt to claim your rebates.
Pro Tip: Some apps let you withdraw cashback once you reach a certain amount. Consider setting a cashback goal to put towards future savings or a special purchase.
6. Join Store Loyalty Programs
Many stores offer loyalty programs that come with exclusive discounts, reward points, or special coupons. For example, Target’s Circle Rewards program gives you access to exclusive discounts, while Kroger’s Shopper’s Card offers fuel rewards and special digital coupons.
How to Use Loyalty Programs:
- Sign up for loyalty programs at stores you frequently shop at.
- Scan your loyalty card or app each time you make a purchase to earn points or qualify for member discounts.
- Use loyalty rewards in combination with coupons for maximum savings.
Pro Tip: Keep an eye out for bonus rewards during holiday seasons or store anniversaries, as these can multiply your points or give you access to exclusive offers.
7. Master the Art of Stockpiling
Stockpiling, or buying items in bulk when they’re on sale, is a tried-and-true strategy in couponing. The goal is to buy enough of an item while it’s deeply discounted so you don’t have to pay full price later.
How to Stockpile Efficiently:
- Only stockpile items that you use frequently and that have a long shelf life, like toiletries, cleaning supplies, and canned goods.
- Use coupons on sale items for the best deal, and buy multiple quantities if the store’s coupon policy allows it.
- Track the dates of your stockpiled items and plan to rotate them so nothing goes to waste.
Pro Tip: Store items in a dedicated space, like a pantry or storage closet, so you can keep track of what you have and avoid buying duplicates.
8. Read and Understand Store Coupon Policies
Each store has its own coupon policy, and understanding these policies will help you get the best deals without any surprises at checkout. Some stores limit the number of coupons you can use per transaction, while others may have restrictions on coupon stacking.
How to Learn Store Policies:
- Check the store’s website or ask customer service for a printed copy of their coupon policy.
- Familiarize yourself with restrictions, such as limits on using multiple coupons for the same item.
- Note any specific policies on digital vs. paper coupons and whether the store offers double coupon days.
Pro Tip: Bring a copy of the coupon policy with you in case you encounter any issues at checkout.
Final Thoughts: Practice Makes Perfect
Couponing can seem overwhelming at first, but with a little practice and patience, it becomes second nature. Start small, focusing on a few items each week, and gradually expand your strategy as you become more comfortable. Remember, consistency is key—the more you coupon, the easier it will be to spot deals and save big.
By using sources like DiscountMeThis to find verified coupon codes, stacking discounts, joining store loyalty programs, and using rebate apps, you’ll be well on your way to mastering the art of couponing and making the most out of every shopping trip. Happy saving!