Whether we'd like to admit it or not, the holidays are right around the corner. This means that it's crunch time for saving every last penny we can in order to snag the perfect gifts. And while it might seem old school, clipping coupons is an excellent way to do this. But don't be fooled. The art of clipping has definitely made its way into the 21st century, and most of your "clipping" can be done on your smartphone. Scissors not required!
1. The Coupons App Price: Free
Download: The Coupons App for the iPhone and iPad
Whether you're after the cheapest gas or the best deal on diet soda, this app helps you get the biggest bang for your buck on all of your favorite products from all your favorite stores. It comes with a barcode scanner tool, so that you can pull up price comparisons on the spot — definitely handy when you're buying big-ticket items. With the sharing function, you can send your friends or family any coupon you find — convenient when you are not at the store but have a coupon that would really help your bottom line. Once you find a coupon you want, simply display it on your phone and present to cashier. No need to print.
2. RetailMeNot
Price: Free
Download: RetailMeNot for the iPhone, iPod Touch, and iPad
Shopping online has become second nature for most of us. But shopping without a coupon code at check out is just silly, especially when you can easily find money-saving codes for thousands of stores with this app. Coupons and codes are updated in real time, and helpful user feedback allows you to see how each can be used for maximum savings. Search by top deals or just added, by store or by product.
3. Weekly Ads and Sales
Price: Free
Download: Weekly Ads and Sales for the iPhone and iPad
It's been a while since most families physically received a Sunday newspaper, which means that many of us are missing out on the weekly circulars that advertise in-store deals. Access ads from over 96,000 stores around the United States, then use the store locator feature to find the nearest locations near you. This app even gives you driving directions. You'll be reaping the money-saving rewards in no time.
4. SnipSnap Coupon AppPrice: Free
Download: SnipSnap Coupon App for the iPhone, iPod Touch, and iPad
This app allows you to gather up all your paper coupons and snap pictures of them. Organize each one by expiration date, location, and category, so you're not carrying a fistful of paper at your next shopping trip. Scissor-free is the way to go. Use the in-store reminder function to remind you via text about specific coupons you have saved there.
5. Key Ring Reward Cards
Price: Free
Download: Key Ring Reward Cards for the iPhone, iPod Touch, and iPad
If you could count on your hands how many rewards and membership cards you have for your favorite stores, you'd probably run out of fingers. This creative app allows you to store each and every card along with its bar code, so checking out is easy. Never miss a deal again, and join new loyalty programs in seconds.
Put down the scissors, walk away slowly
Coupon clipping can be time-consuming — and addicting. As with anything, technology has a way of making it easier. Whether you're hoarding loyalty cards or diaper coupons, you'll find apps to make the process smoother and more rewarding. Your first step is downloading a coupon app that fits your specific needs. The second step is saving lots of money.
Your new mantra? Never pay full price for anything.
[Image credit: MissMessie]
This article originally appeared on Tecca ›
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