10 Smart Strategies to Get Discounts Online and Save Money
Getting discounts online often requires a bit of effort and strategy. Here are some tips to help you save money:
1. Use Coupons and Promo Codes
- Search for Codes: Websites like RetailMeNot, Honey, and CouponCabin list promo codes for various online retailers.
- Install Browser Extensions: Tools like Honey and Capital One Shopping automatically find and apply the best coupon codes during checkout.
2. Wait for Sales
- Seasonal Sales: Black Friday, Cyber Monday, end-of-season sales, and holiday promotions often feature huge discounts.
- Sign Up for Newsletters: Many stores send exclusive discounts to newsletter subscribers.
- Flash Sales and Daily Deals: Look for limited-time offers on websites like Amazon (Lightning Deals), Groupon, or specific retailer platforms.
3. Use Cashback Websites
- Platforms: Sites like Rakuten (formerly Ebates), TopCashback, and BeFrugal give you cash back for shopping through their links.
- Stack Savings: Combine cashback offers with coupon codes for maximum discounts.
4. Abandon Your Cart
- Some retailers send discount codes via email if you add items to your cart but don’t complete the purchase. Be sure you’re logged in with your email.
5. Price Comparison Tools
- Apps & Websites: Use tools like Google Shopping, PriceGrabber, or CamelCamelCamel (for Amazon) to find the best prices.
- Check Price Matching Policies: Some retailers match competitor prices.
6. Loyalty Programs and Reward Points
- Many retailers and credit cards offer reward points for purchases that you can redeem for discounts.
- Join brand-specific loyalty programs for perks like member-only sales or bonus coupons.
7. Free Shipping Offers
- Look for Free Shipping Deals: Some sites offer free shipping codes or thresholds like “Spend $50 for Free Shipping.”
- Use services like ShopRunner for free two-day shipping at supported retailers.
8. Follow Brands on Social Media
- Many brands post exclusive discounts and promo codes on their social media accounts.
9. Buy Discounted Gift Cards
- Purchase discounted gift cards on platforms like Raise or Gift Card Granny, and use them to shop.
10. Negotiate on Live Chat
- Ask customer service if there are any ongoing promotions or discounts. Some representatives offer promo codes during live chat sessions.
By combining these strategies, you can often save significant money on online purchases!