Using coupons is a timeless saving strategy but like every other activity, there is a right way and a wrong way to go about it. People who are new to couponing make many mistakes that reduce their savings or nullify them altogether. If you are looking to sharpen your couponing skills, the following are some of the pitfalls you should be on the lookout for.

Failing to read the fine print.

Coupons come with size restrictions, expiration dates and different stores have varying policies on coupon use. Many couponers make the mistake of heading to stores blindly, coupon in hand, and end up disappointed or embarrassed because they failed to familiarize themselves with coupon policing.

Buying things you don’t need

Many couponers are tempted into buying items that they will never use just because they stumbled into a coupon for them. People tend to get fixated on the discount, forgetting that they still have to pay some cash for the item. If you don’t drive a diesel truck, it does not help you to buy diesel engine oil just because you can get it at 50% discount, it will just waste away in your garage sending your money down the drain.

Abandoning your budget because you have coupons

It is easy to find yourself going over your budget as you pick up every item that is available at a discount. Initially, as you build up your stockpile, it is okay to spend a bit more than normal, but in the long term, your weekly or monthly budget should average less than your normal budget. Always use a shopping list as impulse buying even using coupons could still get you into financial trouble.

Becoming addicted

Saving cash through couponing is a very satisfying experience and once you begin, you will feel like going for more and more. However, if it starts to take over your life, that should be a sign that you need to go a bit slow on it. Even if you know you can find the best coupons at discountrue.com, it doesn’t necessarily mean you must make it your starting page. You should try to limit the time you spend on couponing and put your priorities in order so as to avoid neglecting responsibilities.

Lack of a proper organization system

If you are a serious couponer then your coupons could grow into one serious pile. If you do not have a way to keep them organized, they might end up becoming more of a bother than a help. Two of the most efficient coupon organization methods are the binder system (based on the type of items covered) and the file system (based on the date of coupon).

Not using stacking opportunities.

Stacking involves multiplying your discount by combining two or more coupons where applicable. A good example of stacking is using a manufacturer’s coupon and a store coupon together. Rookie couponers are unaware of this strategy, effectively passing on a great opportunity to maximize savings.

Lack of a stockpiling strategy

Many times, stores offer additional discounts for items bought in bulk. This not only saves you more cash but it also saves you frequent trips to the store to restock each time something runs out. There is however a thin boundary between stockpiling and overindulging in couponing so you should be careful.

Ignoring coupons because an item is on sale.

The average couponer is unaware that manufacturers can use simultaneous offers to encourage you to buy their product. Just because there is a sale sign for an item does not mean you cannot take advantage of your coupons.