7 Couponing Myths That Are Costing You Money
7 Couponing Myths That Are Costing You Money
Ever skipped couponing because you thought it was too complicated, too time-consuming, or only worth it for extreme savers You’re not alone. But these couponing myths are doing serious damage to your wallet. Let’s bust the biggest misconceptions so you can start saving without stress.
Myth #1: Couponing Takes Too Much Time
This myth was true a decade ago—but today’s apps and digital coupons make saving fast and easy. You can clip digital offers in seconds and have them auto-apply at checkout.
- Use store apps like Target, CVS, or Walgreens
- Clip coupons while waiting in line or watching TV
- Stack digital deals with rebate apps like Ibotta for max savings
Want to coupon faster Check our Beginner’s Guide to Digital Coupons for easy app-based savings.
Myth #2: You Can’t Save on the Brands You Like
Many shoppers believe coupons only apply to off-brand or obscure products. Not true. Major brands like Tide, Dove, Colgate, and Kellogg’s release high-value coupons every month—often available directly through store apps.
Read our guide on stacking store sales and coupons to save on your favorite brands without sacrificing quality.
Myth #3: You Need a Giant Binder and Dozens of Inserts
Gone are the days of hauling around a coupon binder. Modern couponing is digital. All you need is your phone and a few minutes a week. Apps like Flipp, Fetch, and the Coupons.com app do the heavy lifting.
Myth #4: Coupons Are Only for Food
In fact, non-food items often bring the biggest savings. Think:
- Personal care (toothpaste, deodorant, razors)
- Cleaning supplies
- Baby products and diapers
- Laundry detergent and toilet paper
Check our Top 10 Grocery Items to Always Buy on Sale list for more ways to shop smarter.
Myth #5: You Can’t Stack Coupons
Many stores allow you to stack:
- One manufacturer coupon + one store coupon
- Coupons + clearance or sale prices
- Coupons + cashback apps for bonus savings
Stores like Target, CVS, Walgreens, and Kroger all support this strategy. Learn how in our Coupon Stacking 101 tutorial.
Myth #6: You Have to Shop at Specific Stores
Couponing works everywhere—from big box stores like Walmart to local grocery chains. Even Dollar General and Family Dollar offer digital coupons and in-store promos. Plus, online shoppers can save with digital codes and Amazon Lightning Deals.
Myth #7: It’s Not Worth It Unless You’re Buying in Bulk
False. Even small shopping trips benefit from smart couponing. A single $2 digital coupon or Ibotta rebate on a $5 item is a 40% savings—and that adds up fast across your weekly list.
✅ Final Thoughts on Couponing Myths
Couponing has changed—and these old myths are keeping people from saving hundreds per year. The truth is, you don’t need to be an expert, carry stacks of paper, or spend hours planning. Just clip a few digital offers, stack with sales, and save as you go.
Want more realistic strategies Explore our updated Walgreens Couponing Guide and CVS Couponing Guide to start seeing savings immediately.
Visit Glitchndealz.com daily for fresh deals, digital coupon alerts, and breakdowns that debunk even more couponing myths!
📈 Why These Couponing Myths Still Exist
Many couponing myths persist because they used to be true—or they’re based on extreme examples people see on TV or social media. Shows like “Extreme Couponing” made it seem like you needed a garage full of toilet paper or a team of helpers to make it worth your time.
But modern couponing has evolved dramatically. With store loyalty apps, rebate programs, and auto-applied digital discounts, today’s savings can be earned in minutes—not hours.
Misconception: “I Don’t Buy Processed Foods, So I Can’t Use Coupons”
This is one of the most common couponing myths—that coupons only exist for sugary cereal or frozen meals. The reality Many health-conscious brands now offer digital coupons, including:
- Greek yogurt (Chobani, Oikos)
- Organic snacks and bars (Clif, KIND)
- Plant-based options (Beyond Meat, Silk, So Delicious)
- Natural and organic household brands (Seventh Generation, Method)
Even produce and meat occasionally have rebates through Ibotta or store rewards. You can coupon while still eating clean.
Myth: “You Can Only Save at Big Stores”
While national chains like Walgreens and Target offer great coupon stacking opportunities, don’t ignore regional and local stores. Many grocery stores (like Safeway, Food Lion, Albertsons, and Meijer) offer:
- Weekly digital coupon drops
- Rewards programs that let you earn gas points or store credit
- Store-brand coupons that apply automatically during sales
Even local dollar stores now offer app-based coupons you can clip and redeem at checkout.
Myth: “I Have to Buy in Bulk to Make It Worthwhile”
This myth stops a lot of beginners from even trying. While it’s true that buying in bulk during a sale can help you save long term, you can still benefit from couponing on everyday small purchases like:
- Shampoo or body wash
- Toothpaste or deodorant
- A box of cereal
- One pack of paper towels
Even a single $2 coupon or rebate can lower your final cost by 25%–50% on small items. And when you stack deals weekly, the savings snowball over time.
🧠 How to Start Couponing the Right Way (Myth-Free)
Now that we’ve cleared up the couponing myths, here’s how to get started the smart and simple way:
- Step 1: Download store apps (like CVS, Kroger, or Target) and create free loyalty accounts
- Step 2: Clip 5–10 digital coupons that match things you actually buy
- Step 3: Watch for weekly sales that match those products
- Step 4: Add in rebate apps like Ibotta, Fetch, or Shopmium for post-checkout savings
This takes just a few minutes per week but can easily save you $10–$30 per trip—and sometimes much more on bigger hauls.
✅ Final Word: Don’t Let Couponing Myths Block Your Savings
The world of coupons has changed. You don’t need scissors, stacks of newspapers, or hours of planning. You just need a phone, a few good apps, and the motivation to stop overpaying.
By letting go of these outdated couponing myths, you’ll open the door to smarter spending and a lot more room in your budget.
Need help getting started Head to Glitchndealz.com for free coupon guides, easy deal breakdowns, and daily updates on savings opportunities that actually work.