Updated: Sep 19, 2024

Saving money on everyday purchases is simpler than ever with the help of coupons and discount apps. Look into ways to cut down on grocery, dining, entertainment, and travel expenses while stretching your budget further. 

Why Use Coupons and Discount Apps?

Coupons and discount apps offer a straightforward way to save money on the things you buy regularly. Whether it’s groceries, clothing, or dining out, these tools can help you lower your expenses and keep more money in your pocket. The key to maximizing these savings is knowing where to find the best deals and how to use them effectively.

Step 1: Find the Right Coupons

To get the most out of coupons, start by finding the ones that offer the best savings on the products you actually use. Here are some tips on where to find valuable coupons:

1. Sunday Newspapers

Traditional paper coupons are still a great way to save money, especially for groceries and household items. Sunday newspapers often include coupon inserts with discounts on a wide range of products. Take the time to clip coupons that match your shopping list, and don’t hesitate to collect multiple copies of the paper if there are particularly good deals.

2. Store Loyalty Programs

Many grocery stores and retailers offer loyalty programs that provide access to exclusive coupons and discounts. Sign up for these programs to receive digital coupons directly to your account. Some stores also offer personalized coupons based on your shopping habits, which can lead to even greater savings.

3. Online Coupon Websites

Websites like Coupons.com, RetailMeNot, and Honey offer digital coupons for a variety of products and stores. These sites allow you to search for coupons by category or retailer, making it easy to find discounts on the items you need. You can print these coupons at home or use them online with a promo code.

4. Manufacturer Websites

Many product manufacturers offer coupons directly on their websites. If there’s a brand you frequently purchase, visit their website to see if they offer any printable or digital coupons. Some companies also have email newsletters that include exclusive discounts, so it’s worth signing up to stay informed.

Step 2: Download the Best Discount Apps

Discount apps are a convenient way to save money on the go. They offer a range of deals, from cash back on groceries to discounts on travel and entertainment. Here are some of the top apps to consider:

1. Ibotta

Ibotta is one of the most popular cash-back apps for groceries and everyday purchases. Simply browse the app for offers on items you plan to buy, add them to your account, and scan your receipt after shopping. You’ll earn cash back on eligible purchases, which you can withdraw via PayPal or redeem for gift cards.

2. Rakuten (formerly Ebates)

Rakuten offers cash back on online shopping at thousands of retailers. Before making a purchase, check Rakuten for available cash-back offers and shop through their links to earn a percentage of your purchase back. Rakuten also provides promo codes for additional savings, making it a double win.

3. Honey

Honey is a browser extension that automatically searches for and applies the best coupon codes when you shop online. It works with thousands of online stores and can save you money on everything from clothing to electronics. Honey also offers cash back through their Honey Gold program, which can be redeemed for gift cards.

4. Groupon

Groupon offers discounts on a wide range of activities, dining, and travel experiences. Whether you’re looking for a deal on a local restaurant, a weekend getaway, or a fun activity, Groupon can help you save up to 70%. The app also features limited-time offers, so check regularly to find the best deals.

Step 3: Stack Your Savings

One of the best ways to maximize your savings is by stacking coupons and discounts. Stacking involves using multiple deals on the same purchase, such as combining a manufacturer’s coupon with a store coupon and cash-back offer. Here’s how to do it:

1. Use Manufacturer and Store Coupons Together

Many stores allow you to use both a manufacturer’s coupon and a store coupon on the same item. For example, if you have a $1 off manufacturer’s coupon and a $1 off store coupon for the same product, you can combine them to save $2. Check your store’s coupon policy to see if stacking is allowed.

2. Pair Coupons with Sales

To get the most out of your coupons, use them on items that are already on sale. This allows you to save even more. For instance, if an item is on sale for 20% off and you have a coupon for an additional 10% off, you’ll save a significant amount. Plan your shopping trips around sales to maximize your savings.

3. Redeem Cash Back on Top of Coupons

Apps like Ibotta and Rakuten allow you to earn cash back on top of any coupons you use. For example, if you use a coupon to save $2 on a product and Ibotta offers $1 cash back on that same item, you’ll save a total of $3. Make sure to check your cash-back apps before shopping to see if there are any offers on the products you plan to buy.

4. Use Discounted Gift Cards

Another way to stack savings is by purchasing discounted gift cards from sites like Raise or CardCash. You can use these gift cards to pay for your purchases in-store or online, effectively reducing the total amount you spend. Combine this with coupons, sales, and cash-back offers for maximum savings.

Step 4: Stay Organized

With so many coupons and discount apps available, it’s easy to get overwhelmed. Staying organized is key to making the most of these savings opportunities. Here are some tips:

1. Keep Track of Expiration Dates

Coupons and discounts often have expiration dates, so it’s important to use them before they expire. Keep a list of coupons and their expiration dates, or use an app like SnipSnap to digitally organize your coupons and get reminders before they expire.

2. Plan Your Shopping Trips

Before heading to the store, take the time to plan your shopping trip. Review your coupons, discount apps, and sales to create a shopping list that maximizes your savings. Having a plan in place will help you avoid impulse purchases and ensure you get the best deals.

3. Set a Budget

While it’s tempting to use every coupon and discount available, it’s important to set a budget and stick to it. Decide how much you’re willing to spend before you start shopping, and use coupons and discounts to stay within that budget. Remember, the goal is to save money, not to buy things you don’t need just because they’re on sale.

4. Monitor Your Savings

Tracking your savings can be a great motivator. Keep a record of how much you save each month using coupons and discount apps. Seeing the total amount can encourage you to keep looking for deals and make the effort worthwhile.

Final Thoughts

Coupons and discount apps are powerful tools for saving money on everyday purchases. By finding the right coupons, downloading the best apps, stacking your savings, and staying organized, you can significantly reduce your expenses and stretch your budget further. Start implementing these strategies today, and watch your savings grow with every purchase.