Even when it was popular, I’ve always considered myself more of a moderate couponer than an extreme one. Using coupons can sometimes feel like a hassle or a mystery that you can’t quite solve. And the couponing world has changed dramatically over the least decade. There are fewer paper coupons in circulation and many more digital optionsYou don’t have to give up hours and hours of your life or start a stockpile of items you’ll never use. But using coupons can be an organic way to regularly save a little extra money here and there to achieve your greater goals.
Do
- Find a System that Works for You. If you’ve ever seen someone in the grocery store with a big binder and thought “I could never do that!” you may be right. That organizational system works for that person, but it may not for you. Focus on creating a system that works for your lifestyle and your objectives instead of picking up someone else’s strategy. For me, I clip coupons that come in the mail or from the paper and toss them into a basket. Then I move them into a binder to keep track of them. Or I simply pull the ones I need from the basket and put them into my bag or purse before going to the specific store. Having a central location where all coupons live in my house is the first step in keeping track of what’s available.
- Know Your Store’s Coupon Policies & Apps. If you want to really use a system to your advantage, you need to know the rules of the game. Take a few quick minutes to review your grocery store’s coupon policy. All of them are a wee bit different and they change from time to time. Here are some quick links to popular grocery stores. You’ll also want to make sure you know how to use any apps or rewards programs.
- Do a Quick Internet Search. When you’re shopping the mall or going out to eat it NEVER hurts to do a quick search on your phone for a coupon. You’ll be out a matter of seconds but could find a coupon that saves you cash.
- Use 3rd Party Savings When Applicable. Some apps and sites aren’t connected directly to a store but can help you save even more dollars or be rewarded for shopping. Some of my favorites include:
Don’t
- Buy Something For the First Time Because You Have a Coupon. Just because you have a coupon isn’t a good enough reason to make a purchase. It’s very rare that I buy something I haven’t bought before due to a coupon. Keep in mind, coupons are marketing tools designed to get you hooked on new products. Tricky, no? Be smart.
- Fall for Suspicious Coupons. Friends, I’m hear to tell you that $100 coupons or ones given by “Bill Gates” or those for expensive “free” products simply don’t exist. ALWAYS, make sure you’re using a reliable website (the little lock up in the corner will let you know). And if it seems too good to be true, it probably is. If you’re concerned, you can always do a quick Internet search with your specific coupon and the word scam. Or send me an e-mail or a tweet to help you determine whether or not it’s legit.
- Buy More Than You Can Afford. Couponing can be addictive. It feels so good to save. But if you’re overspending or using credit cards just to get a discount, it’s not really a deal. Or if you’re opening credit card accounts to “save” money, it’s not a healthy financial habit. Stay to your weekly budget. Use cash. Don’t go overboard, no matter how good the deal.
I LOVE coupons and regularly save $10-50 per week with them depending on what we need. Fun fact: the average millionaire uses coupons, too. So you’re in good company if you use them, too.
What’s your favorite coupon tip?! Share it in the comments below.
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This post contains an affiliate link. That means when you get a great deal, learn about a way to save, or maybe even something for free, I may end up making a small commission. All prices are subject to change.
