Last Updated on July 18, 2024 by Paola Castillo
While stuck at home with nothing to do lately, it’s hard for a lot of us to stop ourselves from shopping online. I bet you’ve bought things you don’t even need, and I don’t blame you; online shopping is fun, fast, and easy.
You might be missing going to the mall and shopping till you drop, but online shopping has its advantages. When you shop online, you have more product options, colors, and sizes. You can also find better deals or apply promo codes rather than wait for coupons. You can also now shop very easily through social media platforms. If you see an influencer wearing something you like, chances are these products are waiting for you in their link in bio.
This fast paced, easy to grab experience has made us addicted to online shopping. You think I’m exaggerating? Grab your phone right now and tell me there aren’t items waiting in your cart.
While you might be regretting these financial decisions you’ve been making, I’m here to help you learn how you can spend less money when you’re online shopping. The tricks are simple and fast, and they’re right at your fingertips. So here’s how to take advantage of them and become a smart shopper!
Get the Honey Extension
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Honey is an extension that you can add to any browser, and it will scan websites for coupons. This extension really changed my life, as I’ve saved a lot on shoes, dog medication, flights, etc. What the extension does is apply a bunch of promo codes when you’re ready to check out and find the one that works for your purchase.
It also lets you find the best prices on Amazon by comparing sellers. Isn’t that awesome?
The best part about Honey is that it also lets you earn Honey Points whenever you make a purchase. These points can be cashed out for gift cards to Macy’s, Sephora, and more. So what are you waiting for? Get Honey now and start saving!
Get Wikibuy
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Another extension I highly recommend is Wikibuy. It has the same concept as the Honey extension. I usually use both just to make sure I get the best possible deal.
Wikibuy shows you trending deals from top stores like TJMaxx, Disney, Verizon, and more. It shows you possible coupons for these stores and if there’s a possibility of earning cash back. The cash back option is great, as I’ve personally earned some money in my account that I didn’t even notice was there.
On Wikibuy’s website, you can search for deals by category. And the best part is that you can add items to your watchlist, meaning that Wikibuy will keep monitoring your favorite products and will alert you as soon as their price drops.
Check the Sales and Promotions Section
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If you shop online pretty frequently, it might be worth it to look for the sales and promotions section on the company’s site. Many people overlook this or never pay attention to it, but there’s some pretty good deals hidden in there.
Even if it’s something minimal, like free shipping, it’s still saving you money!
Subscribe to the Company’s Newsletter
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This is a marketing strategy used by a lot of brands, so you might as well take advantage of it. A lot of these companies are looking to grow their email lists, so if you’re new to their site, you will see a pop up asking you to sign up.
The reward is that you will usually receive a special discount code on your first purchase. You’ll also get exclusive deals by email, so make sure you keep up with those!
Use Afterpay, Klarna, or Quadpay
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If you really want to buy something but don’t feel like dropping $100 or more on the spot, let me tell you, I have the best idea for you.
Companies like Afterpay, Klarna, and Quadpay let you split your payment into four installments, interest free! I use this a lot when I don’t feel like splurging.
It’s very simple and easy: all you need in order to sign up is an email or phone number! A lot of popular brands like Fashion Nova, ASOS, and Pretty Little Thing are offering this option for payments.
This might not be a way to save money, but it is a good option to have when you want to spend less money in one day.
Check Different Websites and Compare Prices
If you’re looking for a specific item and you come across it on a website, don’t buy it right away. Instead, check different websites and different sellers; you might find a better deal. I always use this strategy when I want to save money online. It’s so easy to Google the product and see all the possible merchants.
Yes, I know, saving money takes dedication and patience.
Follow Influencers for Promo Codes
Influencers are the new social media trend. With thousands of followers, great photography, and awesome collaborations, influencers can be a major source to help us keep with the latest trends. A lot of them are usually sponsored by brands and will normally tell their followers to use their personal code to get discounts off of merchandise. They either tell you about the code in their stories, where you can swipe up and shop directly, or they will have that code for you in their bio.
Make sure to take advantage of that discount and start saving money today!
Become an Amazon Prime Member
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There is a reason that Amazon is dominating the world today. Jeff Bezos is the richest man in the world, and I think we all know why.
In 1994, Bezos founded Amazon in a garage in Seattle. Amazon originally started by selling books online but has since shifted to a one stop shop for everything under the sun.
Once you become a Prime member, you get free 2-day shipping on all your Prime orders. Let me tell you, I’ve gotten packages delivered to my doorstep hours after I ordered them.
Amazon keeps offering their customers the best experience, the best products, and options from Alexa, Firestick TV, and more. Not only that, it also offers Prime Video, where you can stream movies, series, and Amazon Music.
By becoming a Prime member, you’ll be saving money on delivery fees and shipping. You can also get exclusive deals and coupons that you can apply to your purchases. Be on the lookout for Prime Day to make sure you take advantage of all the deals happening.
Check if the Brand Offers Memberships
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Brands like Fabletics by Kate Hudson or Savage Fenty by Rihanna offer their clients memberships. By becoming a member, you will always receive discounted prices on all the products. The VIP membership at Fabletics will always get you 25% off and access to members-only deals. Savage Fenty also offers their VIP members 25% off, free shipping on orders over $49, and early access to new drops.
This method is the most effective if you’re a frequent shopper, but with flexible memberships and great deals, it’s hard not to take advantage of this offer!
The Bottom Line
If you really enjoy online shopping, you might always be wondering how to spend less money. The options are there, so you just have to take advantage of them and put in a little extra effort to find the best deals.
Find those coupons, get that membership, sign up for that email list, and you’re on your way to becoming a smart shopper!
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Meet Kourtney, a writer specializing in sex and relationships. Known for her honest and insightful approach, she explores themes of intimacy and personal growth. Her work combines personal anecdotes, expert opinions, and practical advice, helping readers navigate the complexities of modern relationships and embrace their desires. Kourtney's writing serves as a guide for those seeking authentic and fulfilling connections.