If you’re serious about saving money, stacking coupons is one of the best ways to maximize your discounts. Coupon stacking allows you to use multiple coupons on a single purchase, potentially saving you hundreds of dollars over time. While not all retailers allow coupon stacking, those that do offer incredible opportunities to combine promotions for bigger savings. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the best strategies for stacking coupons effectively and offer tips on how to make the most out of every shopping trip.
1. Understand Store Policies
Before you start stacking coupons, it’s crucial to know each store’s coupon policy. Some retailers have generous policies that allow you to use multiple coupons on a single item, while others may restrict the use of certain types of coupons. For example, you might be able to stack a store coupon with a manufacturer coupon but not two store coupons.
Pro tip:
- Visit the store’s website or ask at customer service to familiarize yourself with their coupon stacking policies.
- Some stores also accept competitor coupons, which you can combine with their in-house coupons for even more savings.
2. Combine Manufacturer Coupons and Store Coupons
One of the most common ways to stack coupons is by combining manufacturer coupons with store coupons. Manufacturer coupons are issued by the product’s brand, while store coupons are distributed by the retailer. Since they come from different sources, many stores allow you to apply both to the same item.
Pro tip:
- Use a manufacturer coupon to lower the base price of an item and then apply a store coupon for additional savings.
- Keep an eye out for double or triple coupon days, where some stores will multiply the value of your manufacturer coupons.
3. Use Store Rewards and Loyalty Programs
Many stores offer rewards or points programs that provide additional discounts. By signing up for loyalty programs, you can earn points with each purchase and redeem them for discounts on future shopping trips. Pair these points with coupons to maximize your savings.
Pro tip:
- Always scan your loyalty card or enter your account number at checkout to apply rewards to your total.
- Look for extra point days or exclusive offers for loyalty members that can stack on top of your coupon savings.
4. Stack Coupons With Sales and Promotions
The most effective way to increase your savings is by using coupons on items that are already on sale. Many stores allow you to use coupons during sales events or promotions like “Buy One, Get One Free” or clearance markdowns. By combining sales and coupons, you can often get products at a fraction of the original price.
Pro tip:
- Wait for seasonal sales or holiday events to stack your coupons for the best deals. Retailers frequently offer additional promotions during Black Friday, back-to-school season, and clearance events.
- Shop clearance sections first, where you can find items at rock-bottom prices before applying your coupons.
5. Use Multiple Coupons for Different Items
If a store doesn’t allow you to stack multiple coupons on a single item, you can still save big by using different coupons on multiple items. For example, if you have two store coupons for different products, add both items to your cart and apply each coupon individually to maximize savings across your entire purchase.
Pro tip:
- Organize your coupons by category (e.g., groceries, personal care, household) to make it easier to apply them to different items during checkout.
- Always check coupon expiration dates to ensure you’re using them while they’re still valid.
6. Take Advantage of Coupon Apps and Browser Extensions
There are plenty of coupon apps and browser extensions, like Honey, Rakuten, and RetailMeNot, that automatically find and apply the best coupons at checkout. These tools are invaluable for stacking coupons since they often pull from a wide range of sources, including store discounts and manufacturer coupons.
Pro tip:
- Use multiple coupon apps to ensure you’re getting the best deal. Some apps will offer cashback on top of your savings, giving you even more value.
- Install a browser extension that automatically applies coupons for you during online shopping to avoid missing out on deals.
7. Stack Coupons With Free Shipping Offers
For online shopping, free shipping coupons can save you a lot of money, especially when combined with other discounts. Many retailers offer free shipping codes or thresholds where you qualify for free shipping after spending a certain amount. Be sure to look for these codes and combine them with any other coupons you’re using.
Pro tip:
- Check if the store offers free shipping as part of their rewards program or for using a store credit card.
- Shop during special promotions like Free Shipping Day to avoid paying extra for delivery.
8. Use Competitor Coupons
Some retailers accept coupons from their competitors, giving you another opportunity to stack savings. For example, if you’re shopping at a grocery store that accepts competitor coupons, you can use both the competitor’s coupon and the store’s in-house coupons on the same purchase.
Pro tip:
- Always ask customer service if the store accepts competitor coupons, as policies vary by location.
- Carry a variety of competitor coupons to use wherever accepted, and combine them with store discounts for extra savings.
9. Double Dip With Rebates and Cashback Offers
On top of stacking coupons, you can also take advantage of rebate and cashback offers. Apps like Ibotta and Checkout 51 offer rebates on specific products, allowing you to claim money back after you’ve made your purchase. By combining these rebates with coupons, you can often end up paying very little or even getting items for free.
Pro tip:
- Submit your rebate claims immediately after purchase to avoid missing deadlines.
- Use credit cards that offer cashback or additional rewards for extra savings on top of your stacked coupons.
10. Use Store Credit Cards for Additional Discounts
Many stores offer their own credit cards, which often come with exclusive perks like extra discounts or rewards points. By using a store credit card, you can stack these savings on top of coupons, rewards, and promotions to maximize your discounts.
Pro tip:
- Be mindful of interest rates and only use store credit cards if you can pay off the balance each month to avoid finance charges.
- Look out for special cardholder events or bonus point days that allow you to save even more.
Coupon stacking is a powerful way to save money on everything from groceries to clothing and electronics. By combining manufacturer and store coupons, leveraging loyalty programs, and using coupon apps, you can drastically reduce the cost of your purchases. With a little planning and the right strategy, you’ll be able to stack coupons like a pro and make the most of every deal. Happy saving!
