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Couponing can initially seem overwhelming, but saving money and working towards your financial goals are great ways. This guide will show you everything you need to know about couponing, from finding the best coupons to stacking them for maximum savings.
Before hitting the stores, take the time to research products and retailers that offer discounts, and pay attention to upcoming sales and holidays that might prompt promo codes.
Know the Deals
Couponing can initially seem daunting, but it’s relatively easy and delightful once you get the hang of it. Research and planning can save you hundreds each month on your grocery bill and even more if you stack coupons correctly.
During considerable sales periods like Black Friday, Boxing Day, or the holidays, it’s expected to be overwhelmed by the sheer volume of deals and options available. It helps to do some sleuthing before you hit the stores, either by checking your inbox for newsletters or using a code-finding app that matches products with sales.
Also, watch online and in-store prices, as they can vary significantly between retailers. You should also sign up for a store’s email list, as they send coupons like Walmart coupons immediately (though they may be one-time-use codes or specific to that customer). Many people find it helpful to follow famous money-saving specialists on social media to monitor their tips. Also, remember your store rewards card – these can often be used for discounts or even free items.
Know Your Limits
Being a savvy shopper requires discipline. It’s not a way to deprive yourself of what you need and want, but rather a method for making your dollars work for you and meeting your financial goals. A solid understanding of managing your money and implementing good habits can help you become more intentional about purchasing decisions and secure a brighter financial future for you and your family.
For example, knowing your limit to how much you can spend on groceries each week or month can help keep you from overspending. Limiting how many promo codes you’ll use in a transaction is also important. For example, organizing your coupons in a folder or binder can help keep you from getting overwhelmed at the store.
Another way to help with your budgeting is by participating in group buying. Whether on social media or specialized platforms designed for group purchases, leveraging the bargaining power of larger groups can be a great way to secure jaw-dropping deals on your favorite items.
Know When to Shop
Be aware of when retailers have sales on specific items. You can use price comparison apps and websites to get alerts on prices for the products you regularly buy. Also, pay attention to holidays and gift-giving events that prompt retailers to offer special deals on certain goods.
Some stores even have loyalty programs, where you earn points for every purchase you make. Then, you can redeem those for discounts and freebies. It’s a great way to keep your pantry stocked with products that you love for less.
Another trick to being a savvy shopper is shopping in-store instead of online whenever possible. That’s because some retailers add extra charges for shipping or other fees when you shop online. This is an attempt to get you into their physical store, where they can sell you more. You might also find that some offers are only available in-store or require a coupon code that isn’t available online. So, it might be worth your while to drive the extra distance. You could save yourself a lot of money and hassle.
Know the Codes
Coupon codes are strings of characters that you type in during checkout to get a discount. They can be fixed or percentage discounts, and you can stack them with other coupons. Sometimes, they’re automatically applied, but other times, you have to search for them on your store’s website or in apps.
Some grocery stores have codes, often used to attract new customers (think free delivery on a minimum order) or reward loyalty customers (like $10 off for your 10th purchase). Others, especially discount retailers, offer codes in their emails and social media accounts.
In addition to promo codes, many grocery shoppers also use loyalty programs and rewards cards to save money on items they buy regularly. Those programs often offer exclusive coupon codes for members and extra savings during specific sales periods and holidays.
Know the Sites
With online grocery delivery services growing in popularity, it’s essential to know how those orders code so you can maximize credit card rewards earnings. For instance, a credit card can help you earn points and miles on groceries ordered through these services.
Another key is knowing which stores will double coupons, says a frugal-living expert with a Coupons website.
