How To Coupon And Get Free Stuff (With Examples)
If you’ve ever wondered how to coupon like a pro and unlock the hidden realm of complimentary goodies, you've come to the right place.
In this guide, we’ll unveil the art of couponing, sharing insider secrets and real-life examples that will revolutionize the way you shop.
But.. Now... Imagine strolling down the aisles of your favorite stores armed with a formidable arsenal of coupons, slashing prices left and right, and emerging victorious with bags overflowing with incredible deals. Picture the thrill of opening your mailbox to find a cornucopia of free samples and surprise gifts, each one a testament to your couponing prowess. This is what we are talking about.
But let’s be clear: couponing is no mere hobby; it’s an art form. It requires strategy, dedication, and a bit of detective work. But there's little time left to worry though for we have assembled a treasure trove of knowledge to guide you through the intricate maze of saving opportunities. From deciphering coupon jargon to mastering the art of stacking discounts, we’ll equip you with the tools you need to become a coupon connoisseur.
So, get ready to unleash your inner bargain-hunter, because we’re about to embark on an adventure like no other.
What Are We Going To Cover Here?
- How To Coupon
- Popular Brands That Offer Coupons/Freebies
- Ways To Get Free Stuff Products
- Popular Products You Can Get For Free
- And Much More...
How To Coupon – A Guide With Examples
Here, we’ll provide you with valuable tips, strategies, and real-life examples to help you become a savvy shopper and maximize your couponing success.
1. ‘Stack’ store and manufacturer’s coupons
One of the most powerful strategies in the world of couponing is the art of stacking coupons. These types of coupons can be found on a retailer's online app or let’s say, a Sunday newspaper. You can combine these two, and unlock impressive savings on your favorite products, but make sure you are always on the lookout for such coupons, as they offer more discounts than any other.
Examples:
Example 1:
Imagine you have a store coupon for $2 off a specific brand of shampoo, and you also have a manufacturer’s coupon for $1 off the same shampoo. The shampoo is currently priced at $4. By strategically stacking both coupons, you can enjoy remarkable savings. Apply the $2 store coupon first, reducing the price to $2. Then, use the $1 manufacturer’s coupon, bringing the final price down to just $1. That’s a whopping 75% off the original price!
Example 2:
Suppose you have a store coupon for 20% off all cleaning supplies, and you also possess a manufacturer’s coupon for $0.75 off a particular brand of dishwashing detergent. The detergent is priced at $3.50. By stacking these coupons, you can unlock remarkable savings. Apply the 20% store coupon first, reducing the price by $0.70 to $2.80. Then, use the $0.75 manufacturer’s coupon, bringing the final price down to only $2.05. You’ve effectively saved 41% on your purchase!
| Note: Carefully read and follow the guidelines provided by both the store and the manufacturer. Ensure that both coupons are applicable to the same item and that there are no restrictions on combining them to make the most out of your coupons and enjoy substantial savings on your shopping trips. |
2. Find a coupon database
Coupon databases are invaluable tools for couponers seeking to maximize their savings. These online platforms serve as centralized hubs that compile an extensive collection of available coupons from various sources. They provide a user-friendly interface where you can easily search for specific products or brands and quickly locate corresponding coupons. Coupon databases are a time-saving resource that can significantly enhance your couponing experience.
Example:
Imagine you’re planning a grocery shopping trip, and you want to find coupons for specific items on your shopping list. You visit a popular coupon database website and simply enter the name of the product or brand in the search bar. The database quickly generates a list of available coupons, including printable coupons, digital coupons, and even manufacturer’s coupons from newspaper inserts. With this information at your fingertips, you can easily locate coupons for your desired items and plan your shopping trip accordingly.
| Note: Download retailer apps onto your smartphone to take advantage of digital coupons that can be easily “clipped” and redeemed during checkout, eliminating the hassle of managing stacks of paper coupons. |
3. Learn your store’s coupon policy
Understanding and familiarizing yourself with your preferred store’s coupon policy is a crucial step in becoming a successful couponer. Each store has its own set of rules and restrictions when it comes to coupon usage, and being aware of these guidelines will empower you to plan your shopping trips strategically. Always be aware of the ins and outs of the policy to optimize your savings and avoid any surprises or disappointments at the checkout counter.
Example:
You’re planning to take advantage of a sale at a clothing retailer where they are offering a significant discount on select items. However, you’re unsure if you can combine the sale price with your coupons. Consulting the store’s coupon policy provides you with clarity. You discover that the store allows stacking coupons with sale prices, giving you the green light to use your additional discounts. With this information, you confidently head to the store, armed with your coupons, and enjoy double savings by combining the sale with your coupons.
| Note: Remember, coupon policies may vary between different store locations, so it’s important to review the policy specific to the store you plan to visit. Most retailers provide their coupon policies on their websites or in-store, or you can reach out to customer service for clarification if needed. |
4. Join rewards programs at local big box stores
One of the best ways to unlock additional savings and maximize your couponing efforts is by joining rewards programs offered by major big box retailers. These programs not only provide exclusive discounts and special promotions but also offer additional coupons that can be used in conjunction with store and manufacturer’s coupons.
Example:
You frequently shop at a large department store that offers a rewards program for its customers. By signing up for the program, you gain access to exclusive discounts and promotions tailored to your shopping preferences. As a rewards member, you receive personalized coupons based on your purchase history, allowing you to enjoy discounts on products you regularly buy. Moreover, the program offers bonus coupons that can be stacked with store and manufacturer’s coupons, amplifying your savings. Combine these additional discounts with existing coupons to significantly reduce your shopping expenses.
| Note: To take full advantage of rewards programs, ensure that you sign up for them and stay updated on their offerings. This may involve downloading the retailer’s app, regularly checking your email for updates, or visiting the program’s dedicated webpage. |
5. Start with 10 coupons
As you embark on your couponing journey, it’s crucial to start small and gradually expand your skills and knowledge. Following expert recommendations, begin by browsing your store’s weekly ad and selecting 10 items that are currently on sale. Once you have identified these items, search for coupons that can be paired with them to maximize your savings. Above all this, focus on a targeted list of products to make your coupon saving experience more delightful.
Example:
You discover that a beauty retailer is offering a promotion on a high-end skincare product that you’ve been eyeing. The product is on sale for 20% off, and you have a $5 manufacturer’s coupon that you received from a coupon insert in the newspaper. Now by pairing the sale price with the manufacturer’s coupon, you can enjoy substantial savings on a luxury item that would otherwise be out of your budget.
| Note: Starting small is key to avoid feeling overwhelmed. It allows you to familiarize yourself with the coupon redemption process, develop effective organization techniques, and assess the potential savings. As you become more comfortable and knowledgeable, you can gradually increase the number of coupons you collect and tackle more extensive shopping trips. |
6. Read the fine print
When it comes to coupons, the fine print is your best friend. Take the time to carefully read the terms and conditions of each coupon to understand its limitations and restrictions. Look out for expiration dates, purchase requirements, and any specific brand or product specifications.
Example:
You find a coupon for a buy-one-get-one-free offer on a particular snack item. Upon reading the fine print, you realize that the coupon is valid only for specific flavors or varieties of the snack. It’s important to take note of these specifications to ensure you purchase the correct items and receive the anticipated savings. By understanding the limitations mentioned in the fine print, you can avoid any surprises at the checkout and make the most of the coupon’s value.
| Note: Before heading to any store, take a moment to read and understand the fine print on your coupons. It may seem like a small step, but it can make a big difference in your couponing success. |
7. Create a stockpile:
Creating a stockpile is a key strategy in maximizing your savings through couponing. By building a stockpile, you can take advantage of great deals and discounts, ensuring a ready supply of products while paying significantly less. Instead of purchasing items at their regular price whenever you need them, you can plan your shopping trips around coupons and sales to stock up on essentials at a fraction of the cost.
Example:
You find a coupon for a brand of canned soup that you and your family enjoy. The coupon allows you to buy four cans and get two free. By pairing this coupon with a store sale, you can stock up on a variety of soups and store them in your pantry. Having a stockpile of canned soup ensures that you always have a quick and convenient meal option on hand, without having to pay full price every time you need a can.
| Note: When creating a stockpile, it’s important to strike a balance between purchasing what you need and avoiding excessive hoarding. Focus on items that you use regularly and have a longer shelf life. |
8. Combine coupons with sales
The real magic of couponing lies in combining coupons with sales promotions. Keep an eye out for store circulars, online ads, and email newsletters that announce upcoming sales. Match these sales with your available coupons to amplify your savings.
Example:
An online ad notifies you of a “Buy Two, Get One Free” promotion on beauty products at your favorite store. You happen to have a store coupon for $2 off any beauty product purchase. By combining the promotion with the coupon, you can get three products for the price of one, plus an additional $2 discount. This results in significant savings and allows you to stock up on your favorite beauty items at a fraction of the cost.
| Note: Staying informed about upcoming sales through store circulars, online ads, and email newsletters is crucial. Take the time to match your coupons with the sales promotions to optimize your savings and enjoy the satisfaction of getting high-quality products at a fraction of their original cost. |
9. Check out the discount rack in the back of the store:
Hidden treasures can often be found in the discount rack located at the back of the store. This is where items that are nearing their expiration date or have slight packaging damage are placed at heavily discounted prices. By exploring this section, you can snag incredible deals on everyday essentials.
Examples:
Example 1:
You venture to the back of the grocery store and stumble upon the discount rack. Among the items, you spot a package of cookies with a slightly dented box. The original price of the cookies is $3, but on the discount rack, it’s marked down to $1. When you combine this discounted price with a $0.50 coupon you have for any brand of cookies, you can purchase the cookies for just $0.50, saving 83% off the original price.
Example 2:
While exploring the discount rack at a clothing store, you come across a shirt that has a small stitching flaw. The shirt was originally priced at $30, but on the discount rack, it’s marked down to $10. You have a store coupon for 20% off any clothing item. By using the coupon, you can get the shirt for just $8, saving 73% off the original price.
| Note: Check the discount rack regularly during your shopping trips, as the selection may vary and new items may be added frequently. Keep an eye out for items that align with your needs and preferences, and don’t forget to bring along your coupons to further enhance your savings. |
Popular Brands In The USA That Offer Coupons/Freebies
| Brand | Description | Coupons/Offers |
| Walmart | Well-known retailer providing special perks and discounts to help customers save on purchases. | Free samples of new products, exclusive discounts on select items, savings through their loyalty program. |
| Allure | Esteemed brand offering complimentary samples and exclusive benefits across various industries. | Free beauty product samples, exclusive discounts on featured products, access to member-only events. |
| Coca-Cola | Iconic beverage brand occasionally surprising customers with giveaways and enjoyable offerings. | Free promotional items like branded merchandise, occasional sweepstakes with exciting prizes. |
| Target | Popular shopping destination that offers exclusive deals and cost-saving opportunities for shoppers. | Target Circle program offers personalized deals, free gift cards with select purchases, special discounts on certain products. |
| L’Oreal | Trusted brand in the beauty industry providing free product samples and exclusive advantages. | Free beauty product samples, exclusive discounts on new launches, special rewards for loyal customers. |
| Nestle | Respected food and beverage brand occasionally offering free samples and valuable savings. | Free product samples, printable coupons for various food and beverage items, exclusive discounts. |
| Kraft Heinz | Renowned food company that occasionally surprises customers with exciting benefits and discounts. | Printable coupons for popular food products, limited-time promotions with discounts and freebies. |
| Gillette | Leading grooming brand providing occasional complimentary items and special perks for customers. | Free sample razors, exclusive discounts on shaving products, personalized offers through their loyalty program. |
| The Hershey Company | Beloved chocolate and confectionery brand occasionally delighting customers with free treats and surprises. | Free chocolate samples, occasional promotions with limited-edition flavors, surprise gifts for loyal customers. |
| Starbucks | Well-known coffeehouse chain offering exclusive benefits and occasional complimentary items. | Free birthday drink, rewards through the Starbucks Rewards program, occasional free product promotions. |
How To Get Free Stuff Online Or In Person
There are tons of ways you can get free stuff online or in person, however, this list has you covered with some of the best ones.
1. Sign up for free samples: Many companies offer free samples of their products. Visit their websites or follow them on social media to find out about available samples. For example, a skincare brand may offer free samples of their new moisturizer. Just fill out a form, and they’ll send it to you at no cost.
2. Join loyalty programs: Sign up for loyalty programs at your favorite stores. They often provide exclusive perks, such as freebies, birthday gifts, or member-only discounts.
3. Follow brands on social media: Brands often run social media giveaways, where they offer free products to their followers. Stay connected and participate in these giveaways for a chance to win.
4. Utilize coupon apps: There are multiple apps that offering digital coupons and cashback rewards on various products on a daily basis. You can take advantage of these without any hassle, and redeem the coupons in-store, or online to get items you've been long desiring for free, or at a discounted price.
5. Explore freebie websites and forums: There are tons of websites and freebie communities online that often compile freebie offers from various sources. Check these platforms regularly for new opportunities to get free stuff. You can simply visit any of these freebie website and find a link to request a free sample of anything.
6. Enter sweepstakes: Participate in online sweepstakes and giveaways for a chance to win free products, gift cards, or experiences. Many brands and websites host sweepstakes that only require a simple entry, increasing your chances of scoring free stuff. Watch brands social media handles closely, company websites, and dedicated sweepstakes platforms to discover new opportunities.
7. Sign up for a free trial: Many companies offer free trials of their products or services to attract new customers. You should definitely take advantage of these trial offers to experience the product firsthand and potentially receive free samples or extended access. Just be sure to cancel before the trial period ends if you don’t wish to continue.
8. Indulge in national food holidays: Who doesn't love free food? If you're one among the many, then celebrate national food holidays like National Ice Cream Day or National Donut Day, where many restaurants and food establishments offer freebies or special deals. Always check for promotions and discounts on these days, and enjoy free treats or discounted meals as a delicious way to score free stuff.
9. Take advantage of birthday freebies: Many businesses offer special treats or discounts to customers on their birthdays. Sign up for birthday clubs and enjoy freebies during your birthday month. For example, you can join a restaurant’s birthday club and receive a free dessert or meal on your special day.
10. Engage with product review platforms: Websites like Amazon Vine or BzzAgent provide free products in exchange for honest reviews. Apply to become a reviewer and receive freebies based on your interests and preferences.
11. Attend product launch events: Companies often host product launch events where they give away free samples or full-sized products to attendees. Keep an eye out for these events in your area and RSVP to secure your spot. You might receive free samples of a new snack or a full-sized beauty product.
12. Participate in online surveys: Many websites and market research companies offer rewards or free products in exchange for completing surveys. Sign up with legitimate survey sites and share your opinions to receive freebies. For example, a survey site might reward you with a free gift card for completing a survey about your shopping preferences.
13. Join product testing panels: Companies often recruit consumers to test their products and provide feedback. Sign up for product testing panels to receive free products to try. For instance, a tech company may send you a free smartphone to test its features and share your experience.
14. Follow deal websites and forums: Stay updated on deal websites and online forums dedicated to sharing freebies and discounts. Members often post about free offers they come across, allowing you to snag the latest free stuff. Check out websites like Freebies, etc for bagging the best saving opportunities.
15. Attend community events: Local events like fairs, expos, or community gatherings sometimes have booths or sponsors giving away free samples or promotional items. Keep an eye on event listings in your area and attend these events to score freebies.
16. Exchange coupons with others: Connect with friends, family, or online communities to exchange coupons you don’t need for ones you do. This way, you can acquire coupons for products you want to try or get for free. The best example could be: you might have a coupon for free laundry detergent, but you prefer a coupon for free snacks. Swap with someone who has the desired coupon.
Discover Exciting Freebies: Products You Can Get at No Cost
| Category | Freebie Examples |
| Beauty | Samples of skincare products, makeup, perfume |
| Personal Care | Trial-sized shampoo, conditioner, toothpaste |
| Baby | Diapers, baby wipes, formula samples |
| Food and Drinks | Snack bars, cereal samples, beverage samples |
| Household | Cleaning product samples, laundry detergent |
| Health | Vitamins, supplements, pain relief samples |
| Pet Supplies | Pet food samples, treats, pet shampoo |
| Books | eBooks, audiobooks, digital magazines |
| Clothing | Socks, underwear, promotional t-shirts |
| Office Supplies | Pens, notepads, sticky notes |
| Entertainment | Movie screenings, concert tickets, event passes |
| Fitness | Gym trial memberships, fitness class passes |
| Home Decor | Fabric samples, wallpaper samples, stickers |
| Automotive | Car air fresheners, keychains, bumper stickers |
| Electronics | USB cables, phone cases, screen protectors |
| Travel | Travel-sized toiletries, luggage tags, travel kits |
| Gardening | Seeds, plant samples, gardening tools |
| Sports | Sports drink samples, mini sports equipment |
| Technology | USB flash drives, earphones, phone chargers |
| Games | Video game demos, board game samples |
Questions Popularly Asked
1. How do I start couponing?
To start couponing, begin by collecting coupons from newspapers, online sources, and store flyers. Familiarize yourself with store coupon policies, and organize your coupons for easy access while shopping.
2. Where can I find coupons?
Coupons can be found in newspapers, coupon websites, manufacturer websites, store apps, and through loyalty programs. You can also sign up for mailing lists and follow brands on social media for exclusive coupon offers.
3. Can I use multiple coupons on a single item?
It depends on the store’s policy. Some stores allow stacking, where you can use both a manufacturer coupon and a store coupon for the same item. Read the fine print on your coupons and check the store’s policy to maximize your savings.
4. What is stacking coupons, and how does it work?
Stacking coupons refers to using multiple coupons on the same item. It typically involves combining a manufacturer coupon with a store coupon for added discounts. Stacking allows you to save more on your purchases.
6. How can I organize my coupons effectively?
There are various methods to organize coupons, such as using a coupon binder, accordion file, or digital apps. Choose a system that works for you, categorize coupons by product type, and regularly remove expired coupons.
7. Are there specific strategies for grocery shopping with coupons?
Absolutely! Plan your shopping trips around sales and coupon match-ups. Combine coupons with store promotions, such as BOGO (buy one, get one) deals, to maximize savings. Also, consider buying in bulk when items are heavily discounted.
8. How can I maximize my savings when shopping online?
When shopping online, search for coupon codes before checking out. Many websites offer promo codes that can be applied during the checkout process. Additionally, sign up for cashback websites or browser extensions to earn money back on your online purchases.
9. What are rebate apps, and how can I use them to earn cash back?
Rebate apps allow you to earn cash back on specific products after making a purchase. Simply scan your receipt and select the eligible items for cashback. Accumulate savings over time and cash out once you reach the minimum payout threshold.
Ending Notes...
In conclusion, the art of couponing and the quest for free stuff have the power to transform the way you shop and save. Armed with the knowledge and strategies shared in this guide, you now possess the keys to unlock incredible discounts and discover a world of complimentary treasures.
So, embrace this newfound power and embark on your couponing adventure with confidence. Keep exploring, learning, and applying the couponing tips and tricks you’ve acquired, and watch as your savings grow and your shopping experiences become more rewarding than ever before.
Now, it’s time to put your couponing skills to the test. Gather your coupons, fire up your favorite savings apps, and venture into the retail landscape with determination. Take advantage of every opportunity to save, and always keep an eye out for those elusive freebies. Remember, the more you practice and refine your couponing techniques, the more you’ll uncover the true potential of this money-saving art.
What are you waiting for? Let the hunt for incredible deals and free stuff begin!
