An easy guide to couponing for beginners

If you’re here, you’re already a savvy saver. Want to stretch your budget and save even more on your shopping trips? Use our guide to learn how to coupon like a pro.

How to coupon

Couponing is way more than cutting out little pieces of paper. It's about knowing where to find coupons, how to use them effectively, and when to get the best deals. Serious couponers operate like well-operated machines. They develop complex systems, create huge trading networks, run multiple social media accounts, and use a whole slew of couponing apps, browser extensions, and coupon code locators. Why go through all this effort? Successful couponers often walk out of stores with hundreds of dollars in groceries or other goods for pennies on the dollar.

You may get there, but that's the big league. You don’t need to be a hardcore couponer to save lots of money. Let’s start small. 

Understand the basics

Before you get started couponing, you need to know a few basics.

Coupons come in different forms

• Manufacturer coupons are issued by the company that produces the product.

• Store coupons are specific to that retailer and can usually only be used at that retailer and any of its partners.

• Digital coupons are online coupons you can typically “clip” and apply at checkout or find through a mobile app.

Coupons expire

• Most coupons have an expiration date, so make sure to check the date before using them.

• Some stores honor expired coupons, but most do not. It's best to use coupons before they expire to ensure you get the discount.

Coupons have restrictions

• Always read the fine print on your coupons. Some may only apply to certain products, sizes, or quantities.

• Others might have limitations on how many can be used in a single transaction.

• Each store has its own coupon policy, and smart couponers organize them accordingly.

Where to find coupons

Now that you understand the basics, it's time to start collecting coupons. Here are some great places to find them:

Sunday newspaper inserts

Many weekly newspapers come with a coupon section or coupon inserts that offer a variety of manufacturer and store coupons.

Online

Many websites offer printable coupons for both groceries and retail items. Pro tip: Check to see if there are any physical coupons available. Sometimes, you can combine with online coupons for extra money savings.

Store flyers and ads

Check your local stores' weekly ads for sale items and accompanying coupons. Often, you can request them digitally and by mail.

Online trading groups

Connect with other couponers to trade unwanted coupons for the ones you need.

Mobile apps

Download apps like Ibotta, Checkout51, and RetailMeNot for digital coupons and cashback offers.

Food packaging

Keep an eye out for product packaging coupons while shopping.

Social media

Follow brands and retailers you like for exclusive offers and promotions.

How to organize your coupons

Once you have a collection of coupons, it's important to keep them organized so you can find and use them easily. Here are some methods that work well for most couponers:

• Binder method: Use a folder or binder with plastic sleeves to store and organize your coupons by category.

• Coupon wallet: Purchase a coupon wallet specifically designed for organizing coupons.

• Digital organization: Store digital coupons in specific folders on your computer, smartphone, or other device.

Whatever method you choose, make sure it’s easy to maintain and use. Organization is key to successful couponing.

Advanced couponing: How the pros do it

You’ve probably seen huge coupon hauls on social media and wondered what it takes to get to that level. Here are some advanced techniques used by seasoned couponers for even bigger savings:

Coupon stacking

Use a store coupon and manufacturer coupon on the same item for double the savings. Triple points if you can clip a digital coupon on top of them. 

Catalina deals

Keep an eye out for offers that give you coupons at checkout based on what you're buying.

Price matching

Some stores will match a competitor's price and let you use coupons on top of it. Bring proof! 

Clearance sales

Combine coupons with already discounted clearance items for even bigger savings.

Mail-in rebates

Some products offer a rebate when you purchase them, so you get money back if you send in the forms.  

Buy in bulk

When there's a great deal, and you have multiple coupons, stock up on the item to last until the next sale.

Store loyalty rewards

Sign up for rewards programs at your favorite stores to earn additional discounts and other perks.

Remember, couponing is a marathon, not a sprint. Achieving major savings takes time and effort, but it can be well worth it in the end.

Final tips

• Don't buy something just because you have a coupon for it. Only use coupons for items you actually need or will use.

• Stack your coupons by combining manufacturer and store coupons to maximize your savings.

• Keep an eye on the expiration dates of your digital coupons, as they often expire faster than paper coupons.

• Be patient and persistent. Becoming a successful couponer takes time and effort, but the savings can add up quickly. 

• Don't be afraid to try new stores or brands to take advantage of great deals and coupons.

• Consider donating your overstock to schools, hospitals, food banks, and shelters. Do you really need 25 bottles of dish soap in your garage?

So there you have it: the basics of couponing for beginners. With these tips and tricks, you can save big in no time. Happy couponing. 🛒