Couponing Myths Debunked: What Works and What Doesn’t

Couponing, while a powerful savings tool, is often shrouded in myths and misconceptions. Let’s debunk some common couponing myths to help you save smarter:

Myth 1: You Can Get Everything for Free with Coupons.

• Reality: While it’s possible to get some items for free or nearly free by combining high-value coupons with sales and promotions, consistently getting entire shopping trips for free is unrealistic. Couponing is about reducing costs, not eliminating them entirely.¹

Myth 2: Extreme Couponing as Seen on TV Is Realistic for Everyone.

• Reality: The extreme couponing portrayed on television is often exaggerated for entertainment purposes. It requires a significant time investment, meticulous organization, and access to specific deals and coupons that may not be available to everyone. While substantial savings are possible, the extreme scenarios seen on TV are not the norm.

Myth 3: You Need to Buy Multiple Newspapers to Get Enough Coupons.

• Reality: While multiple newspaper subscriptions can increase your access to coupons, it’s not essential. You can find plenty of coupons from other sources, such as printable coupon websites, store websites and apps, manufacturer websites, and cashback apps.²

Myth 4: Couponing Is Only for Groceries.

• Reality: Coupons are available for a wide variety of products and services beyond groceries, including household goods, personal care items, dining out, entertainment, and travel.³

Myth 5: Digital Coupons Are Always Better Than Paper Coupons.

• Reality: Both digital and paper coupons have their advantages. Digital coupons are convenient and easy to organize, but paper coupons can sometimes offer higher values or be combined with other offers more easily. The best approach is to utilize both types and choose the best option for each specific deal.

Myth 6: You Should Buy Items Just Because You Have a Coupon.

• Reality: This is a common pitfall that can lead to unnecessary spending and clutter. Only use coupons for items you actually need or will use. Otherwise, you’re not saving money; you’re just spending it on things you wouldn’t have bought otherwise.

Myth 7: All Stores Accept All Coupons.

• Reality: Each store has its own coupon policy, which outlines the types of coupons they accept, any limitations on stacking or quantity, and other rules.⁴ It’s essential to familiarize yourself with the coupon policies of the stores where you shop.

Myth 8: You Can Photocopy Coupons to Get More Savings.

• Reality: Photocopying coupons is considered coupon fraud and is illegal.⁵ Coupons have unique identifiers that prevent duplication.⁶

Myth 9: Couponing Is Only for People on a Tight Budget.

• Reality: While couponing can be especially helpful for those on a tight budget, it’s a smart financial strategy for anyone who wants to save money. Even if you’re not struggling financially, using coupons can free up funds for other financial goals.⁷

Myth 10: You Need to Spend Hours Each Week Clipping Coupons.

• Reality: While some extreme couponers may spend a significant amount of time clipping and organizing coupons, it’s not necessary to spend hours each week. With digital coupons and online resources, you can effectively coupon with a minimal time investment.⁸

By understanding these debunked myths, you can approach couponing with a more realistic and effective mindset, saving money without falling prey to common misconceptions.