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Ultimate Guide to Extreme Couponing in the UK
Want to know if you can coupon in the UK? Yes, you absolutely can! I should know, I hold the unofficial world record for the biggest coupon shop, which totalled £1,200 and took place at Lowestoft Tesco.
In this guide, I’ll share the exact method I used to achieve this, alongside the best modern strategies for extreme couponing UK.
From free coupons and cashback apps to supermarket coupons and loyalty schemes, you’ll find everything you need to save money on your shopping.
How I Pulled Off My £1,200 Coupon Shop
To put it simply, I wrote letters to brands using their freepost customer service addresses. Over six weeks, I sent out 600 handwritten letters. But these weren’t just generic requests. I included clever poems, light-hearted jokes, and warm, thoughtful messages designed to make the recipient smile.
Most customer service teams only deal with complaints, so a positive letter genuinely stands out. Out of those 600 letters, I received replies from 150 brands, each one sending back free coupons, vouchers, and even free samples.
With all those groceries piling up, I decided to donate everything to the Benjamin Foundation in Great Yarmouth. They do incredible work supporting young people in the local community, and it felt right to share the savings with others.
Now that you know my secret, let’s dive into the practical ways you can start couponing in the UK today.
How to Get Started with Extreme Couponing in the UK
Getting started with couponing doesn’t require hours of preparation or an overflowing drawer of printed vouchers. It simply requires the right tools, a little planning, and consistency. The easiest way to start is by combining cashback apps, loyalty schemes, and discount coupons.
Best Cashback Apps for Couponing in the UK
Cashback apps are one of the most effective ways to save money on your shopping. These apps offer cashback or discounts when you buy specific products or shop at participating retailers.
1. Shopmium
How it works: Shopmium offers cashback on specific grocery products. Browse the app for current offers, buy the items in-store or online, and then upload a picture of your receipt. Cashback is paid directly into your PayPal or bank account.
How to sign up:
- Download the Shopmium app from the App Store or Google Play.
- Create an account with your email address.
- Browse offers and start saving.
2. CheckoutSmart
How it works: CheckoutSmart functions similarly to Shopmium. It offers cashback on everyday groceries, snacks, and household essentials.
How to sign up:
- Download the CheckoutSmart app from your app store.
- Sign up using your email address.
- Check the app regularly for new offers.
3. GreenJinn
How it works: GreenJinn focuses on healthier and premium food products. You’ll often find offers on fresh produce, vegan options, and organic snacks.
How to sign up:
- Download the GreenJinn app.
- Create an account and link your preferred payment method.
- Upload your receipt after each purchase to claim cashback.
4. Airtime Rewards
How it works: Airtime Rewards connects to your debit or credit card. Every time you shop at a participating retailer, cashback is automatically added to your Airtime Rewards account. This cashback can then be used to pay your mobile phone bill.
How to sign up:
- Download the Airtime Rewards app.
- Link your debit or credit card.
- Shop as normal and earn rewards automatically.
5. JamDoughnut
How it works: JamDoughnut gives you instant cashback when you buy digital gift cards for your favourite retailers.
How to sign up:
- Download the JamDoughnut app.
- Create an account and browse participating retailers.
- Purchase gift cards and earn instant cashback.
These apps are user-friendly and free to download. Using them regularly can lead to substantial savings over time.
Supermarket Loyalty Schemes for Extra Savings
Supermarket loyalty schemes are one of the easiest ways to collect points, earn rewards, and access discount coupons. Here’s how to get started with the most popular schemes in the UK.
1. Tesco Clubcard
Tesco Clubcard members earn points with every purchase. These points can be turned into vouchers or used for discounts in-store and online.
How to sign up:
- Visit the Tesco website or download the Clubcard app.
- Create an account and register your details.
- Start scanning your card or app every time you shop.
2. Asda Rewards
Asda Rewards lets you earn cashback on selected items, which builds up in your cash pot. You can use this pot to save on future shops.
How to sign up:
- Download the Asda Rewards app.
- Sign up with your email address.
- Scan your app at the checkout every time you shop.
3. Nectar Card (Sainsbury’s)
The Nectar loyalty programme allows customers to earn points on every purchase. Points can then be converted into vouchers or spent with partner brands.
How to sign up:
- Visit the Nectar website or download the Nectar app.
- Register for a card and link it to your Sainsbury’s account.
4. Morrisons More
Morrisons More members earn points for every pound spent, which can be redeemed for discount vouchers.
How to sign up:
- Download the Morrisons app.
- Sign up and scan your card at checkout.
5. M&S Sparks
The Sparks loyalty programme provides exclusive offers, discounts, and occasional free treats.
How to sign up:
- Download the Sparks app.
- Create an account and start collecting rewards.
6. Lidl Plus
Lidl Plus offers weekly coupons and tailored discounts for regular shoppers.
How to sign up:
- Download the Lidl Plus app.
- Create an account and scan the app at the checkout.
7. Iceland Bonus Card
Iceland Bonus Card allows you to preload money onto the card. For every £20 you add, Iceland gives you an extra £1, making it a quick and easy way to save money on every shop.
How to sign up:
- Visit your local Iceland store or sign up online.
- Download the Iceland Bonus Card app.
- Create an account and preload funds onto your card.
- Use your card every time you shop to earn bonus savings.
8. Co-op Membership
Co-op Membership offers rewards every time you shop, with 2p for every £1 spent going into your Co-op wallet. You also support local community projects every time you use your membership.
How to sign up:
- Visit the Co-op website or download the Co-op Membership app.
- Sign up with your email address and personal details.
- Scan your membership card or app at checkout.
9. Poundland Perks
While Poundland isn’t technically a supermarket, it’s still a great place to grab affordable groceries, snacks, and household essentials. Their Poundland Perks loyalty programme offers shoppers exclusive discounts, rewards, and even fun interactive games to maximise savings both in-store and online.
Poundland Perks allows shoppers to earn 100 loyalty points for every £1 spent on qualifying products. Some items, known as ‘Powered Up’ items, offer additional points, helping you earn rewards faster. Points can then be converted into vouchers, such as 5,000 points equalling a £1 voucher, redeemable in-store or online.
How to sign up:
- Download the Poundland Perks app from the App Store or Google Play.
- Create an account using your email address and verify it.
- Complete your profile to unlock personalised offers.
- Start scanning your app at checkout to earn points and redeem rewards.
The app also includes weekly interactive games like ‘Win it Wednesday’, where shoppers can win bonus points and prizes. Plus, with online shopping available through Poundland’s website, it’s now even easier to stock up on your favourites while earning rewards.
For regular Poundland shoppers, Poundland Perks is a smart way to stretch your budget even further.
Supermarket Magazines and Newspapers for Coupons
Supermarket magazines and newspapers are often packed with printable coupons, deals, and special offers.
Tesco Magazine is free and can be picked up in-store every month. It usually features a dedicated section filled with discount coupons and vouchers.
Asda Magazine also occasionally includes valuable coupons, although they tend to be less frequent.
National newspapers like The Sun and Daily Mirror are reliable sources of coupons. They often include vouchers offering £10 off a £40 shop at Lidl or discounted entry to UK attractions.
Staying Organised with Coupons and Cashback Apps
Staying organised is key to making the most of extreme couponing in the UK. Keep your digital and physical coupons sorted by expiry date. Use a folder or a dedicated section in your wallet for paper coupons and regularly check cashback apps for updates.
Plan your weekly shopping trips based on active deals. If you notice a product is discounted across multiple platforms, stack your savings using cashback, loyalty points, and physical coupons.
Overall
Extreme couponing isn’t about grabbing every deal, it’s about shopping smarter. With the help of cashback apps, loyalty schemes, and supermarket coupons, it’s easier than ever to cut costs on your weekly shop. By staying organised and planning your purchases carefully, you can make every penny count.
FAQs
Is extreme couponing legal in the UK?
Yes, as long as coupons are used according to their terms and conditions.
What are the best cashback apps for extreme couponing UK?
The most popular apps include Shopmium, CheckoutSmart, GreenJinn, Airtime Rewards, and JamDoughnut.
How do I sign up for supermarket loyalty schemes?
Most loyalty schemes can be joined via supermarket websites or mobile apps.
Where can I find supermarket coupons?
Supermarket magazines, national newspapers, and online coupon websites are great sources.
How do I get coupons in the UK?
You can find coupons in supermarket magazines, national newspapers, online coupon websites, cashback apps, and by directly contacting brands via customer service addresses.
What coupons and vouchers does Iceland accept?
Iceland accepts printed vouchers, promotional coupons, and digital discount codes. They often run deals through their newsletter and app.
How do you use Tesco coupons?
Tesco coupons can be used at the checkout either in-store or online. Make sure to scan your Tesco Clubcard to ensure all discounts are applied.
Are cashback apps worth it?
Yes, cashback apps like Shopmium, GreenJinn, and Airtime Rewards are a great way to save money on regular purchases.
Where can I find free supermarket coupons?
Supermarket magazines, loyalty scheme apps, newspapers, and cashback apps are the most reliable sources.
Can I stack coupons in UK supermarkets?
Some supermarkets allow stacking cashback offers with physical coupons, but it varies by store policy.
What is the Iceland Bonus Card?
The Iceland Bonus Card allows you to preload money and earn an extra £1 for every £20 added.