Does couponing really save your money?

I personally think some coupons are great ways to get quality items for discounted prices.

Here is an interesting story about coupons.

Coca-Cola started paper tickets for a free glass of coke in 1887. (1) It was the first “coupon” in the marketing industry. At first, people needed to have physical coupons and scan the barcode, but it changed from time to time.

Direct mails, clipping coupons, online coupons, QR codes, coupon codes, cashback websites, there are a wide variety of “coupons” that we can use. In this post, you’ll learn the best “coupons” to save some money.

DISCLOSURE: This post may contain affiliate links, meaning I get a small commission if you decide to make a purchase through my links, at no additional cost to you. Please read my full disclaimer here for more info.

Mr. Rebates

Mr. Rebates is a cashback website. It is different than a traditional coupon, but you’ll still save some money. How? Instead of you’ll receive a discount, you’ll get cashback from Mr. Rebates’ website. The service is completely free, but you need to create an account.

How does it work? Mr. Rebates are an affiliate of 3000+ stores. They will earn affiliate commissions when you shop through their website. Mr. Rebates pays a small percentage of these commissions to you as cashback. There is no additional cost to you. Some people worry about being scammed by using the cashback website, but Mr. Rebates got an A+ rating on the Better Business Bureau. They are a legit business.

I saved over $200 using this cashback website as of 2020.

Ibotta

Ibotta is a cashback app for grocery shopping. You’ll be able to select a grocery store and add items to the list. After your grocery shopping, scan the receipt using the app to get cashback. It’s a free app! Plus, you’ll get a $20 sign-up bonus after redeeming your first 10 offers within 14 days. I have tested multiple grocery cashback apps and some of them only give you points. You’ll need unrealistic points to cash out, but Ibotta gives you real cash.

I saved over $67 using this cashback app as of 2020.

Groupon

Groupon is one of the best coupon sites to find deals for entertainment, spa, and restaurants around your area. You need to read the disclosure of each deal carefully. Some of them are misleading advertisements, but some of them are amazing deals that save your money. This is an online coupon. You may need to print out a voucher at home.

Amazon

If you use Amazon Prime Rewards Visa Card, you’ll get a $100 Amazon gift card instantly upon approval and 5% cashback every time you shop at Amazon and Whole Foods. You can use this cashback as a coupon on Amazon when you shop.

eBags

eBags is a website of handbags, luggage, backpacks, laptop bags, and travel accessories. It’s not a coupon website, but you’ll find deep discounts on high-quality items.

Nordstrom Rack

Nordstrom Rack is an outlet store for Nordstrom. Nordstrom Rack offers branded clothing and accessories for women, men, and kids at a large discount. You’ll earn 2 points per dollar net spent when you use a Nordstrom credit card. 1,000 points will be a $10 discount. I don’t like a store credit card but Nordstrom credit cards provide pretty good benefits & discounts.

The Krazy Coupon Lady

The Krazy Coupon Lady is one of the best websites to find coupons and deals. The site also provides both printable coupons and online coupons. If you are overwhelmed by coupon information, you can learn how to coupon effectively on this site. And yes, it’s a 100% free resource.

Hip2Save

Hip2Save is also a website to find coupons and deals. You’ll find coupons to tons of stores, daily deals, promo codes, and freebies!

Wrapping Up

If you use coupons effectively, you’ll save tons of money. Each savings is small, but it might surprise you how quickly your savings add up. These savings will help you to build an emergency fund or pay down debt quickly.

Resource:

1. Tuttle, B. (2010, April 6). The history of coupons. Time. https://business.time.com/2010/04/06/the-history-of-coupons/.