How to organize coupons? If you want to start saving money and enjoy shopping even more, then you should try organizing your coupons.
Coupons are widely used across the world. They are especially useful during the holiday season, when shoppers often spend more than usual. In addition, coupons can be used to save money on groceries, clothing, electronics, restaurants, and much more.
Organizing coupons can be a tedious task. However, it can be done easily using an Excel spreadsheet or Google Sheets. Here are some ways to organize coupons.
Sort your coupons into alphabetical order
This method lets you quickly find any coupon that begins with A through Z. Start by sorting all printed coupons in alphabetical order. Then group them according to store names. Make sure each group contains only one type of coupon (e.g., manufacturer’s or retailer’s). Afterward, sort these groups again into different categories: food, services, etc. Remember that you do not have to use coupons exclusively from the same category. You may combine several types of coupons into one group.
Create categories based on stores
If you plan to buy items frequently from certain stores, you can create separate categories for each store. For example, if you shop at Target, you can create three separate categories such as grocery, home improvement, and fashion. Each category will contain only coupons from specific stores. This method helps you stay organized while shopping and saves time.
Use a shopping list manager
A shopping list manager is similar to a folder in that both let you add new files and folders. However, a shopping list manager allows you to add custom labels and tags to help you categorize and manage your coupons. It will eliminate duplicate coupons and make it easier to find coupons for future purchases. You can also customize how your coupons appear on your phone and monitor which ones you have redeemed.
Consolidate discount codes into one file
Use Excel spreadsheets or Google Sheets to consolidate discount codes. These programs allow you to enter multiple discount codes and automatically calculate savings. Save this file so you don’t lose track of all the codes you’ve entered.
Label categorized items
You can label various categories of items in your kitchen, bathroom, garage, bedroom, and other areas. For example, you can label “laundry detergent” under the section header “Bathroom Supplies.” This will help you avoid forgetting where you placed important supplies.
Group Coupons by Type
You can group coupons by store name or category like travel, fashion, health. This makes it easy to keep track of all your coupons without having to search through stacks of paper.
Use a Mobile App
Mobile apps make managing coupons convenient. They provide an easy-to-use interface that makes tracking and redeeming coupons quick and simple. Some mobile apps feature additional features like a barcode scanner, QR code reader, calculator, and price tracker.
Print coupons directly from gmail
Using a Gmail app, you can print coupons directly from email messages. To start printing coupons from emails, open your inbox. Tap the link labeled “Print…” under an attachment.
Buy a Catalog
Buying a catalog with a high number of coupons is another way to save money. You can find a wide range of products ranging from groceries to electronics.
Organize coupons using binders
Coupon binders are great tools when organizing coupons because they provide room for extra coupons. They are often cheaper than buying individual binder inserts.
Keep coupons in your wallet
Most wallets come equipped with compartments meant to hold cash. If yours does not, consider purchasing a wallet organizer to put your coupons inside.
Donate old credit cards
With the rise of electronic payment methods, many retailers now accept credit cards without requiring plastic identification. This means you won’t need to worry about losing your card. Instead, you can donate old credit cards to charities that collect them.
Set up a referral program
Many popular coupon sites offer referral programs. When you refer friends and family members, you earn points. The more people who sign up, the more points you receive. Points can be exchanged for gift certificates and discounts.
Start saving online
If you love online shopping but dislike clipping coupons, try using websites designed specifically to aggregate deals. Sites like Living Social, Groupon, FatWallet, and Honey offer daily deals and exclusive offers.
Take advantage of incentives
Some retailers offer incentives to encourage customers to visit their stores. Many incentives include free food samples, door prizes, or even free merchandise.
Sign up for loyalty programs
Loyalty programs reward consumers for frequent purchases. Rewards could include free shipping on future purchases or discounts at local restaurants.
Shop around before shopping at target
Target has been known to charge higher prices than competitors for similar products. However, some shoppers have found success by visiting different stores before making a purchase.
Track trends online
When searching for sales and promotions, look for deals posted on social media outlets and news feeds. Popular terms such as “coupons,” “deals,” “sales,” and “offers” often appear alongside pictures of products.
Use Facebook ads
Facebook ads allow businesses to target specific demographics based on location, age, gender, interests, and other criteria.
Make it easy on yourself
The key to saving time and money is simplifying your life. Remove unnecessary tasks and focus on what matters most. That might mean delegating nonessential chores to someone else or simply cutting back on errands.
Watch TV Commercials to Get Discounts
TV commercials promote discounted goods and services. Viewing these commercials before going out to shop may help you get better deals in store.
Visit stores nearby
Shopping near home allows you to walk around stores without having to drive all over town.
Use mobile payment options where available
Mobile payment options are becoming increasingly common. Some mobile apps let you pay for items right from your phone.
Write down Prices
You don’t need to remember exact prices when you’re shopping. By writing down prices, you eliminate the risk of forgetting a few cents.
Download apps to help you save money
Apps like Ibotta and Pocket Guard can save you hundreds of dollars each year. These apps connect you with companies offering rebates through text messages.
