Coupon values aren’t as high as they used to be–I remember a time when you could get $4 off a small bottle of Tide! And, during a time when prices continue to soar, having lower coupon values must mean that you aren’t able to get as good of a deal on items as we once were…right?
Thankfully, I don’t think that’s the case! While it might not be as streamlined as it once was, where you could just take your paper coupon up to the register and instantly save, we are still able to save as much, sometimes more, than we once were thanks to a couponing principle called “stacking.”
Now, while stacking coupons has always been around, thanks to the internet and the creation of several store and money saving apps, we now have more pieces to “stack” into our couponing equation!
So what is “Stacking”?
“Stacking” is a strategy used by couponers to maximize savings when making a purchase on select items. It involves applying multiple coupons, rebates, or discounts to a single item or transaction to reduce the overall cost. By using the “stacking” method, we’re able to snag items for really good prices by combining the savings from different avenues and applying it to a singular item. Then, when we add up all those savings, it becomes a larger discount on the item’s price.
This can be done in several ways:
Using Multiple Coupons: Some retailers allow customers to use more than one coupon on a single item. For example, you might use a manufacturer’s coupon along with a store coupon for the same product. The best place to find coupons is going to be the store’s app where you are shopping. Download the Target Circle app, Walgreens app, CVS app, and Dollar General app to get both store and manufacturer coupons. Make sure you only use one store coupon and one manufacturer coupon for each item.
Combining Coupons with Store Promotions: Coupon stackers often take advantage of store promotions, such as “buy one, get one free” (BOGO) offers, percentage off sales, or discounts on specific products, and then apply coupons to those promotions for extra savings. Stores often will give you back a gift card or store rewards when you spend a certain amount on select items, and since coupons count as a form of payment at the register, you can use coupons on those “spend” deals and still receive your reward or gift card back.
Cashback and Rebates: In addition to coupons, shoppers may use cashback offers or rebates to further reduce the cost of their purchase. These can often be combined with traditional coupons (but not every time, so make sure you check!). These cash back apps include Ibotta, Fetch, Shopkick, and more.
Store Loyalty Programs: Many stores offer loyalty programs that provide additional discounts or rewards. For example, Target shoppers earn 1% in Target Circle Rewards on every purchase as long as they use their Target Circle app! Shoppers can stack these program benefits with coupons and promotions.
Online Shopping Tools: Online shoppers can use browser extensions (Honey) and cash back websites (Rakuten: Spend $30 get $30 bonus) that automatically apply available coupons and discounts during the checkout process, ensuring maximum savings.
Store Policy
It’s important to note that not all stores allow coupon stacking, and the specific rules and policies can vary widely between retailers. Be sure to check your store’s specific policy as the policies will vary between stores.
Additionally, some coupons may have restrictions that prevent stacking with certain other offers. A good example of this is Ibotta. In the details section, Ibotta may have a note that reads, “This offer can’t be combined with coupons for the same product.” To make the most of coupon stacking, it’s essential to carefully read and understand the terms and conditions of each coupon and the store’s policies.
Can you give me an example?
Of course!
Let’s say you’re shopping at Target and you see in the Target Circle app that there is $3 manufacturer coupon off a 12 pack of Viva paper towels. You also see that in the app, it shows those paper towels are also on sale for $9.99 down from $12.99. However, Ibotta also has a $2 rebate when you buy that 12 pack of paper towels. You are able to combine all these savings together ($3 store sale, $3 manufacturer coupon, and a $2 rebate). We are able to save $8, making the total just $4.99 for the originally priced $12.99 12 pack of paper towels.
Here is a another really good example of stacking coupons:
What are the benefits to stacking coupons?
Big Savings: When you use more than one coupon together, you can save a lot of money on things you want to buy. It’s like getting a double or even triple discount, which means you pay less for the same items.
More for Your Money: Coupon stacking lets you buy more of the things you need or want without spending nearly as much. This can be especially helpful for larger or more expensive items.
Smart Shopping: Stacking coupons helps you become a smart shopper. You learn to find the best deals, compare prices, and make your money go further. It’s like a little money-saving trick that makes shopping fun!
By combining different coupons and discounts, you can save a significant amount of money on your purchases, allowing you to enjoy more of the things you love without breaking the bank. It’s a smart strategy that makes shopping not only more affordable but also more rewarding. So, next time you shop, remember to stack those coupons and watch your savings grow!
If you like using coupons to save money but don’t have the time to find the best deals yourself, make sure to follow me. I’ll do the work and show you the top deals every week!
