How to Clip Coupons and Save Big: A Beginner’s Guide to Smart Shopping

In a world where prices are always rising and budgets are tighter than ever, finding ways to stretch your dollar is essential. One of the most effective (and surprisingly easy) methods to do that is by clipping coupons. Whether you’re shopping for groceries, clothes, electronics, or household items, coupons can offer incredible savings—sometimes up to 50% or more!

This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about using coupons effectively—from where to find them to how to stack them for maximum savings.

What Are Coupons?

Coupons are discounts offered by brands, retailers, or manufacturers to encourage purchases. They can be in physical (paper) or digital form and offer a set amount or percentage off the regular price.

Types of coupons include:

• Manufacturer Coupons – Issued by product brands and usable at most retailers
• Store Coupons – Issued by specific stores and usable only at those locations
• Digital Coupons – Found online or in apps; scanned or applied at checkout
• Printable Coupons – Found online and printed at home
• Promo Codes – Used during online checkout for a discount

Where to Find Coupons

You don’t have to scour newspapers with scissors anymore (though that still works!). Here are the best places to find coupons today:

1. Coupon Websites

• RetailMeNot
• Coupons.com
• Slickdeals
• Honey
• Rakuten (for cashback + coupons)

2. Store Apps & Websites

Many big retailers have their own apps with exclusive offers. Look for:

• Target Circle
• Kroger Digital Coupons
• Walgreens & CVS Rewards Programs
• Amazon Coupons Section

3. Email Newsletters

Sign up for newsletters from your favorite brands or stores. You’ll often receive:

• Welcome discounts
• Birthday coupons
• Exclusive subscriber offers

4. Sunday Newspapers

Still a goldmine for grocery and household product coupons. Combine these with store sales for major savings.

5. Loyalty Programs

Joining a store’s loyalty or rewards program often grants access to extra coupons and special member deals.

How to Clip Coupons (and Use Them Strategically)

Clipping coupons isn’t just about collecting them—it’s about using them wisely to save the most money.

Step 1: Plan Before You Shop

• Check store flyers for upcoming sales.
• Match coupons to those sale items for “double savings.”
• Make a shopping list and pair it with your clipped coupons.

Step 2: Organize Your Coupons

• Use a coupon binder or envelope system.
• Separate by category (food, beauty, household, etc.)
• Track expiration dates so nothing goes to waste.

Step 3: Know the Rules

• Most stores don’t allow combining manufacturer and store coupons for the same item, but some do.
• Understand “one per purchase” vs. “one per transaction.”
• Be aware of limits on how many coupons you can use.

Step 4: Stack Coupons for Maximum Discounts

At many stores, you can:

• Combine a store coupon + a manufacturer coupon
• Use a coupon on a sale item
• Add cashback apps like Ibotta or Fetch on top

Example: Buy a box of cereal on sale for $2.50
Use a $1 manufacturer coupon
Use a $0.50 store coupon
Get $0.25 back from Ibotta
= Final price: $0.75!

Pro Tips for Super Savers

• Double Coupon Days: Some stores double the value of coupons on certain days. Ask your local store!
• Price Match + Coupon: At stores that match competitor prices, you can often apply your coupons to the lower price.
• Set a Weekly “Couponing Hour”: Spend one hour each week to clip, print, or add coupons to your apps.
• Use Browser Extensions: Tools like Honey or Capital One Shopping find and apply promo codes automatically at checkout.

Apps That Make It Even Easier

• Ibotta – Get cashback for uploading receipts
• Fetch Rewards – Scan any receipt for points redeemable for gift cards
• Flipp – Browse local circulars and match deals with coupons
• Rakuten – Get cashback and coupon codes when shopping online

Final Thoughts: It All Adds Up

You don’t need to be an extreme couponer to save serious money. Even using just a few coupons a week can save you hundreds over the course of a year. With a little planning, organization, and savvy shopping, clipping coupons becomes less of a chore and more of a game—one where your prize is keeping more cash in your wallet.

Ready to start saving big?
Start by browsing our Latest Deals & Coupons and don’t forget to sign up for our newsletter for exclusive promo codes delivered weekly!