Online shopping has become an everyday convenience for most of us, allowing us to browse thousands of products from our homes.
But while the variety and accessibility are appealing, there’s also the potential to overspend if we’re not careful.
If you’re looking to cut costs without cutting corners, I’m here to share some of the top ways you can save on your online purchases.
This guide will break down practical strategies—from finding the best deals to using clever tools and timing tricks.
By the end, you’ll have all the insights you need to make smarter spending decisions and get the most out of every dollar.
Key Takeaways
- Always compare prices: Use tools and apps to ensure you’re getting the best deal.
- Take advantage of cashback: From credit cards to rewards programs, cashback can add up fast.
- Shop at the right time: Seasonal sales and holiday discounts can save you a lot.
- Utilize membership perks: Free shipping, exclusive discounts, and more are benefits worth considering.
- Use price tracking and alerts: Stay informed on price drops to buy at the perfect moment.
Saving Money on Online Shopping
Shopping online offers plenty of ways to save if you explore the right places.
Simple actions like searching for discount codes, comparing prices across stores, and even waiting a few days before purchasing can lead to significant savings.
In this section, we’ll explore various tactics that make the most of online shopping’s convenience while helping you keep more money in your pocket.
Read More: How to Plan A Family Vacation on a Tight Budget
Why Saving Money Online is Easier Than Ever
Saving money while shopping online has never been easier, thanks to numerous tools and resources designed to help consumers find the best deals.
From cashback programs to digital wallets and discount apps, we’re living in an age where discounts are just a click away.
The rise of online shopping communities also means you’re never alone in your hunt for deals—fellow shoppers share tips, deals, and advice, making it easier to save with confidence.
Look for Deals, Discounts, and Coupons
One of the easiest ways to save is by searching for discounts, coupons, and deals. Here’s how to get started:
Where to Find Discounts
- Coupon Sites and Apps: Websites like RetailMeNot, Honey, and Rakuten allow you to search for and apply discounts automatically when checking out.
- Holiday Sales: Watch for sales around major holidays, including Black Friday, Cyber Monday, and seasonal clearance events.
- Stack Discounts: Some stores let you apply multiple discounts, like a store coupon and a promotional code, for extra savings.
Pro Tips for Using Coupon Sites
- Sign Up for Alerts: Many coupon sites offer email alerts for new discounts.
- Install Browser Extensions: Extensions like Honey automatically apply the best discounts.
Table: Top Coupon and Discount Sites
| Coupon Site | Main Feature | User Rating |
| RetailMeNot | Broad coupon selection | 4.5/5 |
| Honey | Auto-applies discounts | 4.7/5 |
| Rakuten | Cashback on purchases | 4.6/5 |
| Coupons.com | Printable and online coupons | 4.4/5 |
Compare Prices Before You Buy
Comparing prices is a key step to ensure you’re getting the best deal possible. Here’s how to do it:
Best Tools for Price Comparison
- Price Comparison Websites: Tools like Google Shopping, Shopzilla, and PriceGrabber make it easy to check prices across multiple stores.
- Set Price Alerts: Websites like CamelCamelCamel allow you to track price drops on specific items, so you’re notified when prices go down.
Checking Across Retailers
Some stores may price-match or offer special deals, so browsing a few different sites before finalizing a purchase can pay off.
Pro Tip
Many retailers also offer mobile apps that track price changes or send notifications for new deals, making it easier to time your purchase and save even more.
Read More: Top Ways to Lower Your Electric Bill and Save Energy
Leverage Rewards and Cashback Programs
Cashback programs are one of the simplest ways to make your money work for you when shopping online.
Whether it’s through your credit card, a cashback website, or a store’s loyalty program, you can often earn a percentage of your total purchase back. Here’s a look at some popular options:
Types of Cashback Programs
- Cashback Websites: Sites like Rakuten and Swagbucks give you cashback for purchases made through their portals.
- Credit Card Rewards: Many credit cards offer cashback on certain types of purchases or from specific retailers.
- Loyalty Programs: Most major stores have loyalty programs that offer points or cashback for purchases.
Popular Cashback Credit Cards
- Chase Freedom: Earn 1-5% cashback on rotating categories.
- Capital One Rewards: Receive 1.5% cashback on every purchase.
Table: Popular Cashback Programs
| Program | Cashback Rate | Best For |
| Rakuten | 1-10% | Online purchases at partner stores |
| Swagbucks | Varies | Earning points for gift cards |
| Chase Freedom | 1-5% | Rotating categories |
| Capital One Rewards | 1.5% | Everyday purchases |
Buy in Bulk or Subscribe for Savings
Buying in bulk and subscribing to essentials can help you save significantly.
By purchasing products in larger quantities or setting up regular deliveries, you’ll often pay less per item and avoid frequent shopping trips.
This approach is especially useful for non-perishable goods or items you use regularly.
Benefits of Bulk Buying
- Lower Price Per Unit: Bulk buying generally reduces the cost per item, especially for household goods.
- Fewer Shopping Trips: Save time by purchasing items in larger quantities less frequently.
- Reduced Shipping Costs: Many retailers offer free shipping on bulk orders, saving you even more.
Common Items to Buy in Bulk
| Category | Examples |
| Household Items | Paper towels, laundry detergent |
| Pantry Staples | Rice, pasta, canned goods |
| Office Supplies | Printer paper, pens, sticky notes |
Read More: 10 Smart Ways to Save Money on Rent in 2024
Subscribe & Save Programs
Several online stores, including Amazon, offer subscription services where you can set up recurring deliveries for items you use regularly.
These services often come with a small discount for subscribing, and they help ensure you never run out of essentials.
Time Your Purchases Strategically
Timing your shopping trips can be just as valuable as choosing the right stores. Certain times of year, such as Black Friday and holiday sales, are known for deep discounts.
Additionally, shopping off-season or waiting for sales on specific product categories can save you a lot.
Best Times to Shop for Deals
- Off-Season Shopping: Buy seasonal items like clothing or decor out of season for lower prices.
- Annual Sale Events: Watch for big sales on Black Friday, Cyber Monday, and New Year’s.
- Clearance Sales: Look for end-of-season clearance events to snag items at rock-bottom prices.
Calendar of Major Sales Events
| Sale Event | Best Products to Buy |
| Black Friday | Electronics, home appliances |
| Back-to-School Sales | Stationery, laptops, kids’ clothes |
| End-of-Winter Sale | Winter clothing, heating appliances |
| Cyber Monday | Online-exclusive deals on various items |
Timing Tips
If you’re eyeing a big purchase, wait for a sale or check for price drops on special sale days. This strategy can be particularly effective for items like electronics, furniture, and seasonal clothing.
Make Use of Digital Wallets and Payment Discounts
Digital wallets, such as Apple Pay, Google Pay, and PayPal, often come with exclusive discounts and benefits.
Additionally, some banks and credit card providers offer discounts for purchases made through specific payment gateways.
Benefits of Digital Wallets
- Exclusive Discounts: Some retailers offer deals for using digital wallets, especially during promotional periods.
- Security: Digital wallets add an extra layer of security by protecting your payment information.
- Streamlined Checkout: With faster checkout, digital wallets can help you avoid missing out on limited-time deals.
Examples of Digital Wallet Discounts
| Digital Wallet | Retailer Partner | Average Discount |
| Apple Pay | Walgreens, Best Buy | 5-10% |
| Google Pay | Macy’s, Starbucks | Varies |
| PayPal | Numerous online stores | Often seasonal |
Avoiding Additional Fees
In some cases, using a digital wallet may help you bypass fees associated with credit cards or other payment methods. This approach is especially useful for saving money on big-ticket items.
Read More: How to Create a Monthly Budget Plan
Shop Smart with Subscriptions and Memberships
Memberships like Amazon Prime can offer exclusive deals, free shipping, and other perks. If you shop frequently from a specific retailer, investing in a membership could lead to long-term savings.
Membership Perks
- Amazon Prime: Free two-day shipping, access to Prime-exclusive discounts, and more.
- Walmart+: Free delivery from your local store, fuel discounts, and early access to deals.
- Costco Membership: Wholesale prices on a wide variety of goods, plus access to the Costco website for online shopping.
Comparing Popular Membership Programs
| Membership | Cost | Key Benefits |
| Amazon Prime | $139/year | Free shipping, Prime Video, exclusive deals |
| Walmart+ | $98/year | Free delivery, fuel discounts |
| Costco Membership | $60/year | Wholesale prices, exclusive in-store deals |
Free Trials
Some retailers offer free trial periods for memberships, so you can try out the benefits before committing. This is a great way to save on initial purchases and assess whether a membership is worth the cost.
Read More: 15 Essential Budgeting Tips and Tricks for Beginners to Save Money
Utilize Social Media and Influencer Deals
Following brands on social media or partnering with influencers can unlock exclusive deals. Many brands release special promo codes or discounts on their social media channels that aren’t available elsewhere.
Social Media Strategies
- Follow Brands on Platforms: Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter often host exclusive deals and discount codes.
- Check Influencer Promotions: Influencers frequently partner with brands to offer promo codes, so following your favorite accounts could save you money.
- Join Brand Communities: Many brands have social groups or communities that share updates on upcoming sales and exclusive discounts.
Examples of Social Media Discounts
| Platform | Type of Offer | Example Deals |
| Promo Codes | Exclusive discounts via influencer posts | |
| Flash Sales | Limited-time discounts on brand pages | |
| Announcement of Deals | Early access to holiday sales |
Final Tips and Tricks to Save More
In addition to the above strategies, there are a few final tips that can help you maximize your online shopping savings.
Small tactics like using wishlists, clearing your browser cache, and leaving items in your cart can result in unexpected discounts.
Additional Hacks for Online Shopping
- Use Wishlists: Adding items to your wishlist can help track price drops.
- Clear Browser Cache: Retailers sometimes use cookies to show higher prices if you’ve visited a product page multiple times.
- Leave Items in Your Cart: Some stores send discount emails if items are left in your cart without purchasing.
Effective Tips for Bigger Savings
| Tip | Potential Savings |
| Use Wishlists | Track price drops |
| Clear Browser Cache | Avoid inflated prices |
| Leave Items in Cart | Trigger potential discounts |
Read More: Embrace Minimalism to Avoid Excess Spending
Harness the Power of Browser Extensions
Browser extensions like Honey, Rakuten, and Capital One Shopping simplify savings by automatically finding discounts and cashback deals while you shop.
These tools are essential for online shoppers who want to save money without extra effort.
Popular Browser Extensions for Savings
- Honey: Searches for and applies the top available coupon codes during checkout.
- Rakuten: Provides cashback rewards on purchases made through its platform.
- Capital One Shopping: Alerts you to better prices at other online stores.
Benefits of Using Extensions
- Automated Savings: Extensions apply the best discounts without manual searching.
- Cashback Opportunities: Many extensions also offer cashback rewards on eligible purchases.
- Price Tracking: Some extensions track price history to show whether you’re getting a good deal.
Table: Top Browser Extensions for Saving Money
| Extension | Features | Average Savings |
| Honey | Auto-applies coupon codes | 10-20% |
| Rakuten | Cashback on purchases | Varies, up to 10% |
| Capital One Shopping | Price alerts and comparisons | Price alerts only |
Read More: How to Better Manage Personal Finances
Shop Through Discounted Gift Cards
Purchasing discounted gift cards from sites like Raise or CardCash can save you money instantly. By buying gift cards at a reduced rate, you get immediate savings when you shop.
Where to Find Discounted Gift Cards
- Raise: Offers discounted gift cards for major retailers.
- CardCash: Allows you to purchase and even sell unwanted gift cards at a discount.
- Gift Card Granny: Aggregates discounted gift cards from multiple platforms.
How to Maximize Savings with Gift Cards
- Stack with Coupons: Use discounted gift cards along with promo codes for extra savings.
- Plan for Big Purchases: For larger purchases, consider buying several discounted cards.
- Check Return Policies: Be aware that some stores may have different return policies for items bought with gift cards.
Table: Discounted Gift Card Sites
| Platform | Discount Range | Types of Cards Available |
| Raise | 2-15% | Retail, restaurants, entertainment |
| CardCash | 5-20% | Wide range of brands |
| Gift Card Granny | Varies | Aggregates multiple sources |
Read More: Budget Planning Tips for Beginners
Utilize Student, Military, and Senior Discounts
Many retailers offer special discounts for students, military personnel, and seniors. These discounts can often be combined with other promotions to increase savings.
Types of Discounts by Group
- Student Discounts: Typically apply to clothing, electronics, and subscriptions.
- Military Discounts: Available for travel, retail, and essential services.
- Senior Discounts: Commonly offered for dining, travel, and shopping.
Eligibility and Tips for Verification
- Verify Your Status: Sites like ID.me or SheerID streamline the verification process.
- Stack Discounts: Once verified, see if your discount can be used with promo codes or store discounts.
- Check Age Limits: Senior discounts generally apply to customers over 55 or 60, depending on the retailer.
Table: Retailers Offering Group Discounts
| Retailer | Discount Type | Eligibility |
| Apple | Student discount | College students and faculty |
| Home Depot | Military discount | Active and retired military |
| Kohl’s | Senior discount | 60+ years |
Read More: How to Save Money on Groceries Easily
Buy Refurbished or Open-Box Products
Purchasing refurbished or open-box items, especially electronics and appliances, can lead to substantial savings. Many of these products are in excellent condition and come with warranties, making them a budget-friendly option.
Advantages of Buying Refurbished and Open-Box
- Cost Savings: Refurbished items can be up to 50% cheaper than new items.
- Quality Assurance: Many refurbished products are certified by the manufacturer.
- Environmental Impact: Buying refurbished items helps reduce electronic waste.
Where to Buy Refurbished Items
- Amazon Renewed: Sells certified refurbished electronics with warranties.
- Best Buy Open-Box: Offers discounted open-box items with standard warranties.
- Apple Certified Refurbished: Apple’s own refurbished items come with warranties and are thoroughly tested.
Table: Retailers with Refurbished or Open-Box Deals
| Retailer | Product Types | Warranty |
| Amazon Renewed | Electronics, appliances | 90 days or more |
| Best Buy Open-Box | Electronics, home goods | Varies by product |
| Apple Refurbished | iPhones, MacBooks, iPads | 1 year |
Read More: Frugal Living Tips for a Better Budget
Set Up Personalized Shopping Alerts
Personalized shopping alerts help you track price drops on items you want, so you can buy when prices are lowest. This strategy works especially well during major sales events.
How to Set Up Alerts
- Use Price Tracking Apps: Apps like CamelCamelCamel and PriceBlink notify you when prices change.
- Sign Up for Retailer Alerts: Many stores let you set up email alerts for your favorite products.
- Create Wishlists: Wishlists on sites like Amazon make it easy to monitor desired items.
Timing and Maximizing Alerts
- Set Alerts Before Major Sales: Track items before Black Friday or other big sales.
- Adjust Alert Frequency: Some apps allow you to customize how often you receive notifications.
Table: Popular Price Tracking Tools
| Tool | Best For | Key Feature |
| CamelCamelCamel | Amazon price drops | Price tracking over time |
| PriceBlink | Comparison across retailers | In-browser price comparison |
| Honey | Coupon application and alerts | Auto-applies discounts |
Read More: 24 Tips to Reduce Your Monthly Expenses
Consider Canceling Subscriptions for Savings Offers
Some services offer special discounts or promotions if you attempt to cancel. This tactic, known as “retention offers,” can lead to savings on subscriptions.
How Retention Offers Work
- Initiate Cancellation: Start the cancellation process to see if any offers are presented.
- Negotiate for Lower Rates: For some subscriptions, contacting customer support can yield a better rate.
- Review Alternatives: Compare prices across similar services to gauge if a lower-cost option is available.
Popular Services with Retention Offers
| Service | Typical Offer | Cancellation Tips |
| Spotify | 3 months free | Try canceling through app |
| Hulu | 50% off for 3 months | Check for email offers |
| Audible | Discounts on monthly fees | Use the “pause” option |
Take Advantage of Referral Discounts
Referral discounts reward you for sharing a product or service with others. Many brands offer discounts to both the referrer and the person referred, allowing both parties to save.
How to Use Referral Programs
- Sign Up for Referral Programs: Many companies offer these as part of their loyalty programs.
- Share with Friends and Family: Each referral can earn you a discount or cashback reward.
- Combine with Other Discounts: Often, referral discounts can be stacked with ongoing sales or coupons.
Popular Referral Programs
| Brand | Referral Offer | Best For |
| Airbnb | $20 off first booking | Travelers |
| Uber | Free ride credit for referrals | New riders |
| Rakuten | $30 for referring a friend | Online shoppers |
Use “Buy Now, Pay Later” Options Strategically
“Buy Now, Pay Later” (BNPL) services allow you to pay for purchases in interest-free installments. When used responsibly, BNPL options can make larger purchases more manageable without adding extra costs.
Popular Buy Now, Pay Later Services
- Afterpay: Breaks down your total into four equal, interest-free payments.
- Klarna: Offers multiple installment options and a 30-day pay-later option.
- Affirm: Provides flexible payment plans with terms from 3 to 36 months.
Benefits of BNPL
- Interest-Free Payments: Most BNPL plans are interest-free if paid on time.
- Budget-Friendly for Larger Purchases: Break down expensive items into smaller, manageable payments.
- Improved Cash Flow: Delay full payment without incurring interest fees.
Table: Buy Now, Pay Later Options
| Service | Payment Structure | Interest Rate |
| Afterpay | Four equal bi-weekly payments | 0% if paid on time |
| Klarna | Pay in 4 or 30 days | 0% on select plans |
| Affirm | Monthly payments (3-36 months) | 0-30%, based on credit |
Caution When Using BNPL
While BNPL can be helpful, remember to use it sparingly. Missing payments can lead to late fees and affect your credit score, so only choose BNPL for purchases you can comfortably pay off within the set terms.
Join Exclusive Online Communities for Discount Codes
Deal-sharing communities like Reddit and Slickdeals are treasure troves for promo codes, sale alerts, and other savings tips. These platforms allow shoppers to share and discover deals that aren’t always advertised publicly.
Top Deal-Sharing Platforms
- Reddit: Subreddits like r/Deals and r/Frugal offer user-sourced discounts and money-saving tips.
- Slickdeals: A dedicated website where users share and upvote the best deals.
- DealNews: Aggregates popular deals and sales from across the internet.
Benefits of Joining Communities
- Early Access to Deals: Often, community members share deals before they’re widely advertised.
- Verified Promo Codes: Many communities verify codes, so you’re more likely to find working discounts.
- Tips from Experienced Shoppers: Get advice on stacking discounts, combining sales, and finding hidden offers.
Table: Deal-Sharing Communities
| Platform | Key Feature | Type of Deals Shared |
| Reddit (r/Deals) | User-generated deals | Wide variety |
| Slickdeals | Voted by popularity | Electronics, fashion, more |
| DealNews | Curated deals | Major retailer sales |
Make the Most of Flash Sales and Limited-Time Offers
Flash sales offer deep discounts for a short period. Sites like Groupon and Zulily specialize in limited-time offers that can save you significantly on a wide range of products.
How to Find Flash Sales
- Groupon: Known for local deals on dining, activities, and products.
- Zulily: Offers exclusive daily deals on clothing, home goods, and more.
- Amazon Lightning Deals: Limited-time offers on popular items, often with steep discounts.
Tips for Shopping Flash Sales
- Set Notifications: Many sites allow you to enable alerts for flash sales.
- Act Quickly: Flash sales are time-limited and can sell out fast, so be ready to purchase.
- Compare Prices: Even with a flash sale, check other retailers to make sure you’re getting the best price.
Table: Popular Flash Sale Sites
| Site | Types of Deals | Duration of Deals |
| Groupon | Local activities, products | Varies, often 24 hours |
| Zulily | Fashion, home goods | Daily deals |
| Amazon Lightning | Electronics, home goods | Typically hours long |
Benefit from Store and Manufacturer Rebates
Rebates are partial refunds given after a purchase, typically requiring you to submit proof of purchase. Many stores and manufacturers offer rebates on electronics, appliances, and more, allowing you to save additional money on eligible purchases.
Types of Rebates
- Mail-in Rebates: Requires mailing in a form and proof of purchase.
- Online Rebates: Submit your rebate form electronically for quicker processing.
- Instant Rebates: The discount is applied at the point of sale, requiring no additional action.
How to Maximize Rebate Savings
- Track Deadlines: Rebates often have specific submission windows, so submit forms promptly.
- Keep Receipts and UPC Codes: Many rebates require these for verification.
- Combine with Other Discounts: Some retailers allow rebates to be combined with sales and coupons for added savings.
Table: Retailers and Manufacturers Offering Rebates
| Retailer/Manufacturer | Rebate Type | Products Eligible |
| Best Buy | Online/Mail-in | Electronics, appliances |
| Home Depot | Mail-in | Power tools, home improvement items |
| Samsung | Instant and online | Electronics, mobile devices |
Join Group Buying Platforms for Bulk Savings
Group buying platforms, such as Alibaba and Pinduoduo, allow consumers to save by purchasing items in bulk with others. This method is ideal for friends, family, or even small businesses looking for discounts on larger orders.
Benefits of Group Buying
- Lower Prices: By buying in bulk, you reduce the per-unit cost.
- Ideal for Essentials: Group buying works well for items like pantry staples, household supplies, or office products.
- Customizable Orders: Many group-buying platforms allow you to choose quantities and specifications.
Popular Group Buying Platforms
| Platform | Best For | Typical Discounts |
| Alibaba | Small business orders | 10-30% on bulk orders |
| Pinduoduo | Consumer group deals | Varies, high for essentials |
| Boxed | Household bulk items | Discount on bulk pricing |
Take Advantage of Online Layaway Programs
Online layaway programs are ideal for big purchases, especially during holiday seasons. With these programs, you can reserve items by making small payments over time without interest.
How Layaway Programs Work
- Choose Eligible Items: Some items may be restricted, so check the retailer’s list.
- Pay in Installments: Make periodic payments until the full price is covered.
- Receive Item After Final Payment: Unlike BNPL, items are shipped only after payments are complete.
Pros and Cons of Layaway Programs
- Pros: No interest charges, helps budget large purchases.
- Cons: Items are not received until paid in full, and some programs charge small service fees.
Table: Stores Offering Layaway Programs
| Store | Types of Items Eligible | Service Fees |
| Walmart | Electronics, toys | Small fee per plan |
| Kmart | Home goods, furniture | Varies by location |
| Best Buy | Electronics, appliances | Typically free |
Use Price Drop Apps to Monitor Wishlist Items
Price drop apps notify you when there’s a price decrease on specific products you’ve marked as “wanted.” These are especially useful during holiday sales when prices fluctuate often.
How to Use Price Drop Apps
- Select Your Wishlist Items: Add items you’re interested in to the app.
- Enable Notifications: Turn on alerts to be notified immediately of price changes.
- Buy at the Right Time: Wait for the lowest price before completing your purchase.
Popular Price Drop Apps
| App | Key Feature | Best For |
| CamelCamelCamel | Amazon-specific price drops | Electronics, home goods |
| Honey | Price monitoring + coupons | General online shopping |
| ShopSavvy | Compare prices across stores | In-store and online deals |
Read More: Life Hacks to Save Money in 2024
Benefit from Retailer and Payment Gateway Partnerships
Retailers often partner with payment gateways like PayPal or Apple Pay to provide exclusive discounts when you pay using those platforms. These partnerships can offer an extra layer of savings on top of other deals.
Common Retailer and Payment Gateway Discounts
- Apple Pay Deals: Frequently offers discounts on food delivery, apps, and select retailers.
- PayPal Discounts: Often includes cashback deals or exclusive discounts for certain stores.
- Google Pay Offers: Partners with various brands for seasonal discounts and rewards.
Advantages of Payment Gateway Partnerships
- Exclusive Discounts: Certain deals are only available if you use a specific payment method.
- Cashback Offers: Many gateways offer cashback on purchases made through their platform.
- Secure Transactions: Payment gateways provide additional security for online shopping.
Table: Retailer and Payment Gateway Partnerships
| Payment Gateway | Retailer Partners | Typical Offer |
| Apple Pay | Panera, Nike, Walgreens | 5-10% off or bonus rewards |
| PayPal | eBay, Best Buy | Cashback and exclusive deals |
| Google Pay | Target, Dunkin’ Donuts | Cashback and limited-time offers |
Save with Shopping Cart Abandonment Tactics
One lesser-known trick for saving money is leaving items in your online shopping cart without purchasing. Many retailers send discount offers to encourage you to complete your purchase.
How to Trigger Cart Abandonment Offers
- Add Items to Your Cart: Select the items you’re interested in and add them to your cart.
- Exit the Site Without Checking Out: Close the window or tab without completing the purchase.
- Wait for an Email: Within a few hours or days, you may receive an email offering a discount to complete your purchase.
Tips for Using This Tactic
- Use an Account: Make sure you’re logged into an account, as anonymous users may not receive follow-up emails.
- Check Spam Folder: Sometimes these emails land in spam or promotions folders, so keep an eye out.
- Use Selectively: This tactic works best with larger retailers who actively try to prevent cart abandonment.
Table: Stores Known to Send Cart Abandonment Discounts
| Retailer | Average Discount | Typical Wait Time |
| Old Navy | 10-20% off | 1-3 days |
| Macy’s | 10-15% off | 2-4 days |
| Target | 5-10% off | 1-2 days |
Look Out for Email-Only or App-Exclusive Offers
Many retailers offer special discounts exclusively to email subscribers or app users. Signing up for newsletters or downloading retailer apps can give you access to deals that others won’t see.
Benefits of Email and App Exclusives
- Early Access: Subscribers and app users often get first dibs on sales and product launches.
- Special Discounts: Receive exclusive promo codes or discount offers that aren’t available on the website.
- Personalized Recommendations: Some apps offer personalized discounts based on your shopping habits.
Tips for Maximizing App and Email Offers
- Sign Up with a Secondary Email: Avoid cluttering your main inbox by using a separate email for promotional offers.
- Turn On App Notifications: Enable push notifications to get real-time updates on discounts and promotions.
- Check Weekly or Monthly: Retailers may send special offers at different intervals, so keep an eye out.
Table: Stores Offering Email and App-Exclusive Discounts
| Retailer | Exclusive Offer Type | Example Discounts |
| Kohl’s | App-exclusive coupons | 15-20% off |
| Sephora | Email-only sales | Free samples or 10% off |
| Walmart | App-first product launches | Early access to new products |
Use Alternative Online Marketplaces for Better Deals
Shopping on alternative marketplaces like eBay, Poshmark, or Amazon Warehouse can lead to big savings, especially on pre-owned or overstocked items. These platforms often feature discounted prices for lightly used or open-box items.
Popular Alternative Marketplaces
- eBay: Ideal for both new and used items across many categories.
- Poshmark: Specializes in secondhand clothing and accessories.
- Amazon Warehouse: Sells open-box and refurbished items at discounted prices.
Benefits of Using Alternative Marketplaces
- Lower Prices: Many items are listed at significantly reduced rates.
- Unique Finds: Discover vintage, discontinued, or hard-to-find items.
- Sustainability: Buying pre-owned items reduces waste and supports sustainable shopping.
Table: Alternative Marketplaces for Discounted Shopping
| Marketplace | Best For | Average Savings |
| eBay | Electronics, collectibles | 10-50% off retail prices |
| Poshmark | Fashion, accessories | 20-60% off new prices |
| Amazon Warehouse | Electronics, appliances | 10-30% off retail prices |
Use Budgeting Tools to Track Spending
Budgeting apps help you monitor your spending and set financial goals, which is essential for controlling online shopping expenses. These tools provide insights into your spending patterns and can alert you when you’re approaching your set limits.
Recommended Budgeting Tools
- Mint: Tracks expenses, sets budgets, and provides spending insights.
- You Need A Budget (YNAB): Helps with proactive budgeting and financial goal setting.
- PocketGuard: Shows how much you can safely spend after essentials.
Benefits of Using Budgeting Tools
- Track Online Shopping Habits: Budgeting apps categorize your expenses, making it easy to see how much you spend online.
- Set Limits: Many apps allow you to set spending limits for different categories, including online shopping.
- Identify Patterns: Spot trends in your spending to avoid impulsive buying.
Table: Top Budgeting Apps for Online Shoppers
| Budgeting App | Key Feature | Monthly Cost |
| Mint | Free, with budgeting tools | Free |
| YNAB | Proactive budgeting | $11.99/month |
| PocketGuard | Spending allowance feature | Free, Premium $4.99/month |
Set Up a Dedicated Shopping Account
Creating a separate bank account or prepaid card specifically for online shopping can help you control spending. By allocating a set amount to this account, you limit what you can spend online, which helps prevent impulse purchases.
How to Set Up a Dedicated Shopping Account
- Open a Separate Account: Many banks offer free or low-cost secondary accounts.
- Load with a Monthly Budget: Deposit a set amount each month to cap your online spending.
- Use a Prepaid Card: For even tighter control, consider using a prepaid card that you can reload as needed.
Benefits of a Dedicated Shopping Account
- Budget Control: Ensures you don’t exceed your monthly online shopping budget.
- Added Security: Reduces the risk of fraud affecting your main account.
- Prevents Impulse Spending: By limiting funds, you’ll think twice before splurging.
Table: Options for Dedicated Shopping Accounts
| Account Type | Best For | Key Benefit |
| Secondary Bank Account | General online shopping | Separate from main finances |
| Prepaid Card | Limited spending control | Easy to reload, no overspend |
| Digital Wallet Sub-account | App-specific spending | Budget-friendly transactions |
FAQ About Save Money on Online Shopping
Final Thoughts
Online shopping doesn’t have to drain your wallet. With a bit of planning, patience, and the right strategies, you can make every dollar count.
From using cashback and browser extensions to taking advantage of store rebates and flash sales, there are countless ways to save.
By incorporating even a few of these tips into your routine, you’ll notice the difference in your monthly spending.
Happy shopping—and happy saving!
