Let’s be real. Who wouldn’t love saving a few bucks? I’m not implying that we should be stingy but should you be really spending a fifth of your income on groceries alone? As a traveller, your money is better spent on exploring the world. Perhaps you’ve tried coupon websites buy you’re not getting anything substantial. Without the right strategy, the payoff will be minuscule. This is my second-anniversary using coupons while travelling and I think I’ve gathered a few things. Think of this as a guide on How coupon websites can keep your budget under control.
1. Don’t just go buying everything with a coupon
Sounds counter-productive, right? not all items on sale make a good sale. We will be using coupon websites to find value. For instance, consider a pack of bagels that goes for $2.99. Now assume that there’s an offer where they’re giving two packs of bagels for $5. Of course, this isn’t a value sale. They’re using this marketing gimmick to gather more sales. Coupons are rare. Use them sparingly. You get to save the most money by buying super discounted items. For example, BestGear.org has a great list for price-reduced headphones that are much better than using a coupon on regularly-priced headphones.
2. Collect several coupons
You’ll thank yourself later for this. Imagine your favourite item is on discount and you’ve got the right coupon for just that. Ensure that you keep them in a convenient location too. I personally keep them in my wallet. This way, you will never forget them when packing for a trip. You could slot them in your wallet or favourite grocery bag too.
Or, you can keep them all online! If you have a website, the easiest way to find a coupon is to do a quick google search and then redeem a coupon from a site like this:
3. Get the most bang by combining coupons and cash discounts.
If you’re going to make mega savings, you must combine coupons and sales. Well, I agree it’s great saving a dollar when buying that large tub of pistachio ice cream that goes for $5. Wouldn’t it be even better if you could buy them when winter is coming to an end for just $3? You will have saved an extra $2 dollars. In budgeting, they teach that you should treat your pennies as you treat your dollars.
You could even take it a step higher and only buy your favorite items when they’re at the right price. This may mean waiting for several months but the savings will be worth the wait. For example, I never buy ice cream unless it comes at a great price. I then buy enough tubs to get me through the next great price. Keep an eye on the expiry date though. You don’t want nasty surprises.
4. Get digital coupons
Grocery stores are finally catching up with technology. There are a few stores where they scan receipts and give money back. Well, this is more of using a rebate than using coupons but you’ll still make the same budget savings. Cashing out is super easy. Like this: View Deal
5. Get a loyalty card from your favorite brand
Did you know that brands offer better rates to their loyal customers? Get their card and keep it in your wallet. This way, it won’t be in your kitchen drawer when you need it. Look for an international. You will be saving while sightseeing in different countries. You could even save a few bucks by liking their Facebook page or downloading their fan app. Time to get creative. There are many ways you could use coupon websites to save money.