Most savvy shoppers are familiar with the standard ways to get a coupon. You can clip them from the newspaper, print them online, or download them from a store’s app. However, there is a hidden world of obscure and lesser-known coupons that most people have no idea exist. These discounts are not widely advertised. They are often available only to the customers who are willing to put in a little extra effort. Here are eight of the most obscure coupons you did not know about.
1. Coupons from Complimenting a Company
If you really love a particular product, you should take the time to write a letter or an email to the company to tell them so. Many major brands, from food companies to personal care brands, will often reward a customer who sends them a glowing compliment. They will mail you a packet of high-value coupons for their products as a thank you for your loyalty.
2. Coupons Inside the Product’s Packaging
You should always inspect the packaging of a product before you throw it away. Some companies will place a secret coupon on the inside of the cardboard box or on the back of the label. These “in-pack” coupons are a great surprise for a careful customer. They are a reward for your loyalty that most people will miss completely.
3. “Hangtag” Coupons on a Bottle’s Neck
The next time you are in the beverage aisle, you should look closely at the necks of the bottles. Companies will often place a small “hangtag” coupon on their products. This is especially common for wine, salad dressings, and other bottled goods. These coupons are easy to miss, but they are a great way to get an instant discount at the register.
4. Coupons on the Back of Your Receipt
The back of your grocery store receipt is often a source of valuable coupons for other local businesses. You might find a coupon for a free appetizer at a nearby restaurant or a discount at a local car wash. Most people will throw their receipt away without ever looking at the back. This is a missed opportunity for a great local deal.
5. E-Rebate Services
An “e-rebate” is a modern, digital version of the old mail-in rebate. There are a number of third-party websites and apps that have partnered with major brands. If you buy a specific product, you can upload a picture of your receipt to the app. The service will then send you a cash rebate for that purchase via PayPal or Venmo.
6. Coupons for Filling Out a Product Survey
The invitation to take a survey on the bottom of your receipt is not just about feedback. As an incentive to get you to complete the survey, many companies will offer you a coupon for a free or discounted item on your next visit. This is a very common practice in the fast-food industry. A few minutes of your time can be rewarded with a free burger or a BOGO deal.
7. Coupons for People Who Are Moving
If you are planning a move, you should be sure to fill out a change of address form with the U.S. Postal Service. When you do, you will receive a “welcome kit” that is filled with valuable coupons. These are from a variety of national retailers, like Lowe’s and Pottery Barn. They are designed to help you save money on all the new things you will need for your new home.
8. The “Competitor” Coupon
Some stores have a policy of accepting coupons from their direct competitors. For example, a home improvement store like The Home Depot might accept a coupon from Lowe’s. A craft store like Michaels might accept a coupon from Jo-Ann Fabrics. You have to ask the store manager about their specific policy, but this can be a great and little-known way to save money.
The Hidden World of Savings
The world of couponing is much bigger and more diverse than most people realize. It is not just about the weekly flyer. There is a whole hidden world of obscure and unconventional discounts that are available to any shopper who is willing to look for them. By thinking outside the box and by being a more observant and engaged consumer, you can unlock a new level of savings that the average shopper will never find.
What is the most obscure or unusual coupon you have ever used? Do you have any other secret couponing tips to share? Let us know in the comments!
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