Couponing Myths Debunked: What Works and What Doesn’t

Couponing, while a powerful way to save money, is often surrounded by misconceptions. Let’s debunk some common couponing myths to help you save smarter and more effectively:

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 strategically combining high-value coupons with sales and promotions (especially when factoring in cashback apps), getting everything for free on every shopping trip is highly unrealistic. Couponing is about reducing your overall spending, not eliminating it entirely.

Myth 2: Extreme Couponing as Seen on TV Is Realistic for the Average Person.

• Reality: The extreme couponing portrayed on television is often exaggerated for entertainment. It typically involves significant time investment, extensive organization, and access to unique circumstances or deals that aren’t readily available to most people. While substantial savings are achievable through consistent couponing, the extreme scenarios are not the norm.

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

• Reality: While multiple newspaper subscriptions can increase your access to coupons, it’s not essential, especially in the digital age. There are many other free or low-cost sources for coupons, including:
  • Printable coupon websites (Coupons.com, Save.com, SmartSource)
  • Store websites and apps (digital coupons)
  • Manufacturer websites
  • Cashback apps (Ibotta, Fetch, Checkout 51)

Myth 4: Couponing Is Only for Groceries.

• Reality: Coupons are available for a wide variety of products and services beyond groceries, including:
  • Household goods (cleaning supplies, paper products)
  • Personal care items (shampoo, toothpaste)
  • Dining out
  • Entertainment
  • Travel
  • Clothing

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

• Reality: Both digital and paper coupons have their own advantages. Digital coupons are convenient and easy to organize, while paper coupons can sometimes offer higher values, be easier to stack with other offers, or work on store brands where digital offers are limited. The best approach is to use a combination of both and choose the best option for each specific deal.

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

• Reality: This is a common mistake 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 specific rules. It’s crucial to familiarize yourself with the coupon policies of the stores where you shop to avoid surprises at checkout.

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

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

Myth 9: Couponing Is Only for People on a Very 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 or allow you to spend on other things you enjoy.

Myth 10: You Have to Spend Hours Each Week Clipping and Organizing Coupons.

• Reality: While some dedicated couponers may spend a significant amount of time on it, it’s not necessary to spend hours each week. With digital coupons, online resources, and organized systems, you can effectively coupon with a reasonable time investment.

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