Top Couponing Hacks to Save Money on Groceries and Gas
If you're looking for ways to cut costs on your groceries and DIY supplies, couponing is one of the most effective strategies. Whether you're new to couponing or looking to optimize your current savings strategy, these top couponing hacks will help you make the most of your budget and stretch your dollars further. From digital coupons to stacking strategies, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know to start saving big!
1. Sign Up for Store Loyalty Programs
Most major grocery stores and retailers offer free loyalty programs that reward you with exclusive discounts, personalized coupons, and even points that can be redeemed for savings. These loyalty programs are a great way to access store-specific coupons and promotions.
Hack: Download the store's app to get real-time notifications about in-store promotions, flash sales, and digital coupons that may not be advertised in print.
Pro Tip: Some stores offer additional discounts if you use their app to scan items while you shop, so be sure to check for app-exclusive savings!
2. Use Coupon Aggregator Websites and Apps
Coupon aggregator websites and apps are a goldmine for finding both paper and digital coupons. Websites like Coupons.com, SmartSource, and RetailMeNot collect coupons from various sources and display them all in one place. These platforms often feature printable grocery coupons and digital ones that can be added to your store’s app.
Hack: Set up email alerts for your favorite brands or products. This way, you’ll be notified as soon as new coupons become available.
Pro Tip: Check apps like Honey or Rakuten for cashback offers on online purchases and promo codes, which can be combined with in-store or digital coupons for even more savings.
3. Stack Coupons for Maximum Savings
One of the most powerful couponing strategies is stacking, which involves using multiple coupons on the same item. Here’s how it works:
Hack: You can often stack store coupons (issued by the store itself) with manufacturer coupons (issued by the product’s brand). For example, if a store is offering a 20% off coupon and you also have a $1 off manufacturer coupon, you can use both on the same item.
Pro Tip: Always check the store’s coupon policy to ensure that coupon stacking is allowed. Some stores have specific rules about which types of coupons can be combined.
4. Track Sales Cycles and Buy in Bulk
One of the best ways to save money with coupons is by knowing when items go on sale. Many grocery stores follow a sales cycle for certain items. For example, canned goods, toiletries, and cleaning products may go on sale at the same time each year.
Hack: Combine your coupons with sales cycles to get the best possible deal. Stock up on items you use regularly when they’re on sale to avoid paying full price later. Buying in bulk when items are on sale can save you money in the long run.
Pro Tip: If a store has a “buy one, get one free” (BOGO) deal, try to pair it with a coupon for even more savings.
5. Use Cashback and Rebates Apps
Cashback apps such as Ibotta, Fetch Rewards, and Checkout 51 allow you to earn cash back on your grocery and DIY purchases. These apps are especially useful for items you’ve already purchased or for things you don’t have a coupon for.
Hack: Scan your receipts after each shopping trip to earn cashback or rewards points. Some apps even allow you to upload receipts from stores that don’t have digital coupon programs.
Pro Tip: Some apps offer bonuses for completing specific tasks, like redeeming a certain number of offers in a month or purchasing from a featured brand.
6. Be Strategic with Your Coupons
Not all coupons are created equal. You’ll want to prioritize your coupons and use them on the items that offer the highest savings. Here are a few strategies to help you make the most of your coupons:
Hack: Use high-value coupons for pricier items and for items you’ll use frequently. If you have a coupon for $1 off a $10 item, that’s a better deal than a coupon for $0.25 off a $1 item.
Pro Tip: Avoid using coupons on things you wouldn’t normally buy just because they’re on sale. Only clip and use coupons for products that you actually need or use.
7. Sign Up for Manufacturer and Brand-Specific Newsletters
Many brands offer exclusive coupons and promotions to their email subscribers. Signing up for newsletters from your favorite brands can give you early access to discounts and promotions that are not available to the public.
Hack: Look for welcome bonuses or initial sign-up coupons when you subscribe to a brand’s newsletter. These can be used for both groceries and DIY supplies.
Pro Tip: Brands often send out special coupons during holidays, product launches, or events, so keep an eye on your inbox for those exclusive deals!
8. Don’t Forget About Printable Coupons
While digital coupons are convenient, printable coupons can also offer significant savings, especially for in-store purchases. You can find printable coupons on websites like Coupons.com, RedPlum, and SmartSource. These are often manufacturer coupons that can be used in-store.
Hack: Print out coupons for items you buy regularly and bring them with you during your grocery trips. If you're purchasing DIY supplies, don't forget to look for printable coupons for craft stores like Michaels or Joann Fabrics.
Pro Tip: Some stores accept both digital and printable coupons for the same item, so be sure to check your store’s policy and maximize your savings.
9. Know Your Store’s Coupon Policy
Each store has its own coupon policy, so it’s crucial to familiarize yourself with it before you start couponing. Some stores may have specific rules about which coupons can be combined or what types of coupons they accept.
Hack: Ask customer service for a copy of the store’s coupon policy, or check their website for more details. Understanding the rules will prevent you from wasting time with expired or invalid coupons.
Pro Tip: Many stores will accept expired coupons if you’ve built a good relationship with the staff, so it’s always worth asking.
10. Stay Organized and Plan Ahead
Keeping your coupons organized is essential for saving time and money. Use a coupon binder or an app to keep track of your coupons and expiration dates. Having a system in place will ensure you never miss out on a deal.
Hack: Plan your shopping list based on the coupons you have and the items that are on sale. This way, you’ll avoid impulse purchases and only buy what you really need.
Pro Tip: Set aside a specific time each week to clip, organize, and plan your coupons so you’re always prepared for your next shopping trip.
Final Thoughts
Couponing is a powerful tool that can save you hundreds of dollars on groceries and DIY supplies. By following these top couponing hacks, you'll be well on your way to becoming a savvy shopper who can save big without sacrificing quality or quantity. Remember to be strategic, stay organized, and always combine coupons with sales for maximum savings. Happy couponing!
Top Couponing Hacks to Save Money on Groceries & DIY Supplies
If you're looking for ways to cut costs on your groceries and DIY supplies, couponing is one of the most effective strategies. Whether you're new to couponing or looking to optimize your current savings strategy, these top couponing hacks will help you make the most of your budget and stretch your dollars further. From digital coupons to stacking strategies, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know to start saving big!
1. Sign Up for Store Loyalty Programs
Most major grocery stores and retailers offer free loyalty programs that reward you with exclusive discounts, personalized coupons, and even points that can be redeemed for savings. These loyalty programs are a great way to access store-specific coupons and promotions.
Hack: Download the store's app to get real-time notifications about in-store promotions, flash sales, and digital coupons that may not be advertised in print.
Pro Tip: Some stores offer additional discounts if you use their app to scan items while you shop, so be sure to check for app-exclusive savings!
2. Use Coupon Aggregator Websites and Apps
Coupon aggregator websites and apps are a goldmine for finding both paper and digital coupons. Websites like Coupons.com, SmartSource, and RetailMeNot collect coupons from various sources and display them all in one place. These platforms often feature printable grocery coupons and digital ones that can be added to your store’s app.
Hack: Set up email alerts for your favorite brands or products. This way, you’ll be notified as soon as new coupons become available.
Pro Tip: Check apps like Honey or Rakuten for cashback offers on online purchases and promo codes, which can be combined with in-store or digital coupons for even more savings.
3. Stack Coupons for Maximum Savings
One of the most powerful couponing strategies is stacking, which involves using multiple coupons on the same item. Here’s how it works:
Hack: You can often stack store coupons (issued by the store itself) with manufacturer coupons (issued by the product’s brand). For example, if a store is offering a 20% off coupon and you also have a $1 off manufacturer coupon, you can use both on the same item.
Pro Tip: Always check the store’s coupon policy to ensure that coupon stacking is allowed. Some stores have specific rules about which types of coupons can be combined.
4. Track Sales Cycles and Buy in Bulk
One of the best ways to save money with coupons is by knowing when items go on sale. Many grocery stores follow a sales cycle for certain items. For example, canned goods, toiletries, and cleaning products may go on sale at the same time each year.
Hack: Combine your coupons with sales cycles to get the best possible deal. Stock up on items you use regularly when they’re on sale to avoid paying full price later. Buying in bulk when items are on sale can save you money in the long run.
Pro Tip: If a store has a “buy one, get one free” (BOGO) deal, try to pair it with a coupon for even more savings.
5. Use Cashback and Rebates Apps
Cashback apps such as Ibotta, Fetch Rewards, and Checkout 51 allow you to earn cash back on your grocery and DIY purchases. These apps are especially useful for items you’ve already purchased or for things you don’t have a coupon for.
Hack: Scan your receipts after each shopping trip to earn cashback or rewards points. Some apps even allow you to upload receipts from stores that don’t have digital coupon programs.
Pro Tip: Some apps offer bonuses for completing specific tasks, like redeeming a certain number of offers in a month or purchasing from a featured brand.
6. Be Strategic with Your Coupons
Not all coupons are created equal. You’ll want to prioritize your coupons and use them on the items that offer the highest savings. Here are a few strategies to help you make the most of your coupons:
Hack: Use high-value coupons for pricier items and for items you’ll use frequently. If you have a coupon for $1 off a $10 item, that’s a better deal than a coupon for $0.25 off a $1 item.
Pro Tip: Avoid using coupons on things you wouldn’t normally buy just because they’re on sale. Only clip and use coupons for products that you actually need or use.
7. Sign Up for Manufacturer and Brand-Specific Newsletters
Many brands offer exclusive coupons and promotions to their email subscribers. Signing up for newsletters from your favorite brands can give you early access to discounts and promotions that are not available to the public.
Hack: Look for welcome bonuses or initial sign-up coupons when you subscribe to a brand’s newsletter. These can be used for both groceries and DIY supplies.
Pro Tip: Brands often send out special coupons during holidays, product launches, or events, so keep an eye on your inbox for those exclusive deals!
8. Don’t Forget About Printable Coupons
While digital coupons are convenient, printable coupons can also offer significant savings, especially for in-store purchases. You can find printable coupons on websites like Coupons.com, RedPlum, and SmartSource. These are often manufacturer coupons that can be used in-store.
Hack: Print out coupons for items you buy regularly and bring them with you during your grocery trips. If you're purchasing DIY supplies, don't forget to look for printable coupons for craft stores like Michaels or Joann Fabrics.
Pro Tip: Some stores accept both digital and printable coupons for the same item, so be sure to check your store’s policy and maximize your savings.
9. Know Your Store’s Coupon Policy
Each store has its own coupon policy, so it’s crucial to familiarize yourself with it before you start couponing. Some stores may have specific rules about which coupons can be combined or what types of coupons they accept.
Hack: Ask customer service for a copy of the store’s coupon policy, or check their website for more details. Understanding the rules will prevent you from wasting time with expired or invalid coupons.
Pro Tip: Many stores will accept expired coupons if you’ve built a good relationship with the staff, so it’s always worth asking.
10. Stay Organized and Plan Ahead
Keeping your coupons organized is essential for saving time and money. Use a coupon binder or an app to keep track of your coupons and expiration dates. Having a system in place will ensure you never miss out on a deal.
Hack: Plan your shopping list based on the coupons you have and the items that are on sale. This way, you’ll avoid impulse purchases and only buy what you really need.
Pro Tip: Set aside a specific time each week to clip, organize, and plan your coupons so you’re always prepared for your next shopping trip.
Saving Tips for Rising Gas Prices
With gas prices continuing to rise, it's more important than ever to save on transportation costs. Here are some additional tips to help you save on gas while still getting the supplies you need for your grocery runs and DIY projects.
1. Combine Shopping Trips
Rather than making multiple trips throughout the week, plan your errands and grocery shopping together. By consolidating your trips, you'll save on gas and reduce the number of miles you're driving.
2. Use Gas Reward Programs
Many grocery stores and wholesale retailers have gas reward programs where you can earn points for every purchase you make, which can be redeemed for discounts at the gas pump.
Hack: Sign up for these reward programs and use your points to fill up for less. Some grocery stores even offer double points days, allowing you to earn rewards faster.
3. Carpool or Share Rides
If you have friends, family, or neighbors who also need to go to the store, consider carpooling to split the gas cost. Sharing rides can reduce the number of vehicles on the road and save everyone money.
4. Use Gas Price Apps
There are several apps, such as GasBuddy, that help you find the cheapest gas stations in your area. By using these apps, you can plan your trips around the stations that offer the best prices, ensuring you always fill up at the lowest price possible.
5. Drive More Efficiently
Simple driving habits, such as avoiding rapid acceleration, braking, and idling, can help you reduce fuel consumption. Additionally, keeping your car well-maintained with regular oil changes and tire checks ensures that it runs as efficiently as possible.
6. Take Advantage of Online Shopping
Many stores now offer curbside pickup or home delivery options. While delivery may have an extra cost, shopping online and selecting pickup can save you from driving to the store, especially if you’re making a large purchase or have a long drive ahead.
Final Thoughts
Couponing is a powerful tool that can save you hundreds of dollars on groceries and DIY supplies. By following these top couponing hacks and applying these gas-saving tips, you'll be well on your way to becoming a savvy shopper who can save big without sacrificing quality or quantity. Remember to be strategic, stay organized, and always combine coupons with sales for maximum savings. Happy couponing!