nline shopping is convenient, but it’s also one of the easiest ways to overspend. What most people don’t realize is that there are simple ways to save money on almost every online purchase without spending hours hunting for deals.
From cashback apps to discount stacking, here are nine smart shopping techniques to keep more money in your pocket.
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1. Never Pay Full Price—Coupons Are Everywhere
Retailers offer discounts all the time, but they don’t always make them easy to find. Before you check out, always search for a coupon code—chances are, there’s one available.
Some of the best ways to find discounts include:
- Coupon websites like RetailMeNot and Coupons.com
- Browser extensions like Honey and PayPal Honey that automatically apply promo codes
- Store newsletters that offer discounts for first-time customers
If you don’t find a coupon, try adding items to your cart and leaving them there. Many stores send discount codes via email within a day or two to encourage you to complete your purchase.
2. Get Cashback on Purchases You Were Already Going to Make
Cashback apps and websites let you earn money back when you shop online. They partner with retailers to offer small rebates on sales, and all you have to do is click through their link before checking out.
Popular cashback platforms include:
- Rakuten, which pays cashback via PayPal or check
- TopCashback, which often offers higher cashback rates
- BeFrugal, another strong option for earning cashback
Cashback rewards stack with coupons and store sales, giving you an extra discount on top of what you’re already saving.
3. Compare Prices Before Buying
Online prices change constantly, and different retailers may sell the same item at different prices. Checking a few sources before checking out can save you a surprising amount of money.
A few tools to help compare prices:
- Google Shopping searches multiple retailers at once
- CamelCamelCamel tracks price drops on Amazon
- Some stores have price-matching policies, allowing you to request a lower price if you find a better deal elsewhere
If you’re not in a hurry, setting up price alerts can help you grab an item when it drops to its lowest price.
4. The “Abandoned Cart” Trick
Retailers track abandoned carts as lost sales, which is why some will send you a discount code if you leave your cart sitting for a day or two.
Here’s how it works:
- Add items to your cart.
- Enter your email at checkout.
- Close the page and wait.
- Check your inbox—some stores send a discount code within 24 to 48 hours.
Not every store does this, but when it works, it’s an easy way to score extra savings without doing anything.
5. Stack Discounts for Bigger Savings
Smart shoppers don’t just use one discount—they layer multiple savings strategies for the best price.
A few ways to stack discounts include:
- Finding and applying a coupon code
- Activating a cashback offer through Rakuten or another site
- Using a rewards credit card to earn cashback or points
- Taking advantage of store loyalty programs that offer exclusive discounts
Even small savings add up, especially when combined.
6. Sign Up for Store Loyalty Programs
Many retailers offer free loyalty programs that give members access to exclusive perks like extra discounts, free shipping, and cashback rewards. If you shop at certain stores frequently, joining their loyalty program can help you save even more.
A few popular store loyalty programs include:
- Target Circle, which gives 1% back on purchases
- Sephora Beauty Insider, which offers free gifts and bonus point events
- Nordstrom Rewards, which provides cashback and early access to sales
Most loyalty programs are free to join and offer benefits that make shopping a little cheaper.
7. Ask for Discounts Through Live Chat
Many retailers offer live chat support, and customer service reps sometimes have discount codes available—but only if you ask.
How to try it:
- Open the live chat feature on the website.
- Ask if there are any available discounts or promotions.
- If they say no, ask if they can offer free shipping or match a lower price from a competitor.
It won’t work every time, but when it does, it’s an easy way to get an extra discount.
8. Use a Credit Card That Rewards You for Shopping
Some credit cards offer cashback or travel rewards on every purchase, meaning you can save even more money just by using the right card.
Some of the best options include:
- Cashback credit cards that earn 1.5% to 5% back on purchases
- Travel rewards cards that turn spending into airline miles or hotel points
- Retail store cards that offer extra perks for frequent shoppers
If you use a credit card for online shopping, make sure to pay your balance in full each month to avoid interest charges that cancel out your savings.
9. Avoid Shipping Fees Whenever Possible
Shipping costs add up, but there are plenty of ways to avoid them.
A few tricks to get free shipping:
- Sign up for store emails—many retailers send free shipping codes to new subscribers
- Choose in-store pickup when available to avoid shipping fees
- Check for free shipping minimums, and if you’re just under the threshold, consider adding a small item instead of paying for shipping
For frequent shoppers, services like Amazon Prime or Walmart+ may be worth the subscription fee to get free shipping year-round.
The Bottom Line
With a few simple tricks, you can save money on almost every online purchase. Whether it’s using cashback sites, finding coupon codes, or stacking discounts, these strategies can help you cut costs without sacrificing what you want.
The next time you’re about to check out, take a few extra seconds to apply some of these techniques. You might be surprised at how much you can save over time.
