I’ve been couponing now for almost 15 years… no matter how long you’ve been saving money there are always things to learn.  Through the years I’ve noticed that their are common couponing mistakes that many new (and sometimes experienced) couponers make.  Deals don’t always work right, you forget to use a coupon, or get flustered.  I don’t want the few bad moments to spoil the fun though.  The reason you are saving and how much you are saving are the big things to stay focused on!!  Let’s learn from each others mistakes and hopefully help you save more time and money.

For more, watch this past Monday’s live Q&A on common couponing mistakes. 

Common Couponing Mistakes

Starting Too Big

When folks decide to start something new they usually dive in and go a bit overboard.  From starting a new diet, renovating a room, and even to couponing this doesn’t always work out for the best.  When you first get started couponing you need to keep it small. Pick one or two deals to try at the drugstore or make a short grocery list of 10 deals and focus on getting those deals right!  Do one deal at a time for items that have lots of stacking parts. It’s easier to see mistakes or how it works on a receipt with just a few items. Once you get the hang of it, you can always add more deals.

Trying to Catch Every Deal

You’re never going to be able to get all the deals there are. You’re better off limiting your trips and choosing a few stores that you already shop at. Running out to grab one deal at a time wastes time and money!  

A side note here: Most stores will have similar deals if you just wait.  They don’t have identical ads each week so what is on sale at Kroger may be on sale in 2 more weeks at Publix.  You just shop your store, and don’t feel the pull to hit multiple sale ads.

Overbuying (and grabbing things you don’t need)

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