The Ultimate Guide to Saving Money Online
In today's digital age, the internet has revolutionised the way we shop and spend money. Whether it's for everyday essentials or splurging on a special treat, the online world offers endless opportunities to save money and find great deals. In this blog post, we'll explore some valuable tips and tricks to help you save money while shopping online.
1. Compare Prices and Use Price Tracking Tools:
One of the most significant advantages of online shopping is the ability to compare prices across different platforms. Take advantage of price comparison websites and browser extensions that can automatically compare prices for the same product across multiple online retailers. For example, Streetify is the most automated price comparison App (for all phones) and Extension (for computers). One of the big benefits of using Streetify is that it checks all retailers, not just the ones that pay them. That means you’ll see far more prices for the same product.
Additionally, use price tracking tools to monitor price fluctuations over time, so you can make purchases when prices are at their lowest.
2. Look for Discount Codes and Coupons:
Before checking out, always search for discount codes and coupons. Many websites offer promo codes that can be applied during the checkout process, leading to significant savings. You can find these codes on various coupon websites or by simply searching for the store name along with "promo code" on your preferred search engine. If you use Streetify, it checks over 50 deal sites for relationships with the retailer you’ve considering - saving you time.
3. Sign Up for Newsletters and Loyalty Programs:
Subscribe to newsletters of your favorite online stores and brands. Many retailers offer exclusive discounts and promotions to their subscribers. Additionally, consider joining loyalty programs, as they often reward members with special deals, early access to sales, and even cashback rewards.
4. Embrace Cashback and Reward Programs:
Cashback and reward programs can help you save money with every purchase. Websites like Ebates (now Rakuten), Swagbucks, and Honey offer cashback or reward points when you shop through their platforms. Accumulate these rewards and redeem them for gift cards or cashback, which can significantly impact your overall savings.
5. Abandon Your Cart (Strategically):
This might sound counterintuitive, but some online retailers use cart abandonment tactics to lure you back with a discount. If you're not in a hurry to purchase an item, add it to your cart and leave it there for a day or two. In many cases, you might receive an email with a discount code to entice you to complete the purchase.
6. Opt for Free Shipping:
Shipping costs can add up quickly, so always try to find online stores that offer free shipping. Many retailers offer free shipping if you spend a certain amount, so consider consolidating your purchases to reach the threshold and save on shipping fees.
7. Follow Brands on Social Media:
Stay connected with your favorite brands on social media platforms. Companies often announce exclusive sales and promotions to their followers, giving you a chance to score significant discounts.
8. Utilize Flash Sales and Deal Websites:
Keep an eye out for flash sales and deal websites that feature time-limited discounts on various products. Websites like Groupon, Woot, and DealNews can be great resources to find fantastic bargains.
9. Use Virtual Wallets and Payment Apps:
Some payment apps and virtual wallets offer cashback or special discounts for using their services. Look into apps like PayPal, Google Pay, or Apple Pay to see if they provide any money-saving incentives.
10. Time Your Purchases Wisely:
Certain times of the year, like Black Friday, Cyber Monday, and holiday sales, offer massive discounts on a wide range of products. Plan your major purchases around these occasions to maximize your savings.
Remember, while online shopping can be incredibly convenient, it's essential to stay vigilant and avoid impulse purchases. Stick to your budget, and use these money-saving tips to make the most of your online shopping experience. Happy saving!