7 Online Shopping Hacks to Get the Best Discounts: Maximize Your Savings

Online shopping has revolutionized the way we purchase goods, offering convenience and access to a vast array of products. However, getting the best discounts requires a bit of strategy. Here are seven online shopping hacks to ensure you get the most bang for your buck, allowing you to enjoy great deals and significant savings.

1. Use Price Comparison Tools

Price comparison tools are essential for finding the best deals.

• Google Shopping: Simply enter the product you’re looking for, and Google Shopping will show you prices from different retailers.
• PriceGrabber: This tool allows you to compare prices across various platforms, ensuring you don’t overpay.
• CamelCamelCamel: Ideal for Amazon shoppers, this site tracks the price history of products, helping you determine the best time to buy.

2. Install Browser Extensions

Browser extensions can automatically find and apply discounts for you.

• Honey: This popular extension automatically applies the best coupon codes at checkout and provides cash back on purchases from participating stores.
• Rakuten (formerly Ebates): Earn cash back on your purchases by shopping through Rakuten’s portal. The browser extension alerts you to cash back opportunities while you shop.
• InvisibleHand: This extension shows a discreet notification if the product you’re viewing is available for a lower price elsewhere.

3. Sign Up for Newsletters and Loyalty Programs

Retailers often reward their subscribers and loyal customers with exclusive discounts.

• Newsletter Discounts: Many stores offer a percentage off your first purchase when you sign up for their newsletter.
• Loyalty Programs: Join loyalty programs to earn points on purchases that can be redeemed for discounts or free products. Programs often include member-only sales and early access to promotions.

4. Take Advantage of Cashback Websites

Cashback websites offer a percentage of your purchase back as cash.

• Rakuten: Earn cash back on purchases from thousands of retailers. Sign up and start shopping through Rakuten’s links to accumulate cash back.
• Swagbucks: Earn points (called SB) for shopping, which can be redeemed for gift cards or cash via PayPal.
• TopCashback: Known for offering higher rates than other cashback sites, TopCashback provides cash back on purchases from a wide range of online stores.

5. Use Abandoned Cart Discounts

Sometimes leaving items in your online cart can lead to unexpected savings.

• Abandon Your Cart: Add items to your cart and leave the site without completing the purchase. Retailers often send follow-up emails with discount offers to entice you to complete your purchase.
• Sign in: Ensure you’re logged into your account or have entered your email address so the retailer can send you the discount email.

6. Look for Discount Codes and Coupons

Never checkout without searching for a discount code.

• RetailMeNot: A comprehensive site for finding coupon codes for a wide range of retailers.
• Coupons.com: Offers printable and digital coupons for both online and in-store use.
• CouponCabin: Provides verified coupon codes and cashback offers for various online stores.

7. Shop During Sales Events and Off-Season

Timing your purchases can lead to substantial savings.

• Major Sales Events: Plan your shopping around events like Black Friday, Cyber Monday, Amazon Prime Day, and seasonal sales. These times offer significant discounts across many product categories.
• Off-Season Shopping: Buy items when they are out of season. For example, purchase winter coats in the spring or summer, and swimsuits in the fall, to take advantage of markdowns.

Conclusion

By incorporating these seven hacks into your online shopping routine, you can secure the best discounts and maximize your savings. From using price comparison tools and browser extensions to signing up for newsletters and shopping during sales events, these strategies ensure you get the best deals possible. Happy shopping and happy saving!