Couponing is undoubtedly one of the biggest ways a person can save money. When you are starting to coupon, or even if you are a seasoned couponer, you might be making some mistakes that are slowing you down or not allowing you to maximize your savings. Here’s a list of couponing mistakes and how to keep them from happening.
Couponing Mistakes & How to Avoid Them
You don’t understand coupon lingo. Understanding the lingo will help you know what others are talking about in couponing groups and classes. For instance, “OOP” is “Out of Pocket (cost)” and B1G1 is “Buy one, Get one free”.
You don’t think you need a coupon when items are on sale. Many people don’t realize you can get maximum savings from products by matching them with sales. In fact, a sale is optimal for using coupons and it pretty much guarantees you will get the best deal.
You don’t know the store’s policy. Not knowing the store’s policy is not only crucial to not being embarrassed at the register when you are trying to use a multitude of coupons, but it also makes sure you can point out when a cashier isn’t aware of a policy. Coupon policies change pretty frequently so even the cashier may not be aware when a new rule comes into place. Plus, you may be able to use more coupons than you think just by checking out the policy beforehand.
You have too many coupons you will not use. Not using all your coupons you clip is wasted time and energy. Additionally, you may get them lost and forget about ones you intended on using when it’s too late and they are expired. Here are tips for organizing your coupons.
You buy stuff you won’t use. No matter how cheap it is, if you won’t use it or have plans to donate it, it is wasted money and space in your stockpile.
You don’t read the fine print on the coupon. There is nothing more disappointing than getting up to the register, coupons in hand, and finding out after you have loaded the belt that your coupons won’t work because you are trying to use them in a manner the coupon forbids. Make sure to check out all your coupons when you are planning a trip.
You wait too long to buy super-deals. If you know of a deal out there, make sure to get out and get it as soon as you can before it is out of stock. Please, though, don’t clear the shelves. You will make other couponers in your area pretty upset with you. If the item is out of stock, ask the manager for a rain check.
You don’t make allies with local couponers. Couponing can take a lot of time if you try to do it all on your own. Especially if you are trying to snag all the good deals that are constantly out there. Make friends with local couponers through classes and Facebook groups so you can all help each other and alert one another to deals.
You don’t plan your trips. You can’t just head to any old store with a stack of coupons and expect to get good deals. Couponing requires checking out store ads, making a shopping list and sometimes hitting up several locations to get the best deal. Favado has coupon match ups for your stores which saves you time and money.
You are rude to store employees when there is a hold-up at the register or something is not in stock. This is never a good idea. Not only will you have a hard time at the register, but you will not get any special favors. Being in good standing with employees of your favorite stores can get you favors and allow the employees to let you slide on certain things like limits on trips.
What were some couponing mistakes you have done?
More Ways to Save on Groceries
- 10 Tips for Getting the Best Deals at Farmer’s Markets
- How to Save Money on Produce
- How to Freeze Fresh Produce
- How to Save Money on Meat
- How to Save Money on Milk and Dairy
- 10 Ways to Save Money on Organic Food
- How to Get Started Couponing
- 10 Ways to Save on Groceries without Using Coupons
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