Online shopping has become the go-to for everything from groceries to fashion, offering convenience, variety, and the luxury of shopping from your sofa. But as easy as it is to click “add to cart,” it’s just as easy to overspend. The good news? With a few savvy strategies, you can enjoy all the perks of online shopping without blowing your budget. Explore 7 smart ways to save money while shopping online, so you can get what you need (and want) for less.
1. Use Coupon Codes and Cashback Sites
Before you check out, always search for a coupon code. Many retailers offer promo codes that unlock discounts on your total purchase, shipping fees, or specific items.
- Where to find them: Try websites like RetailMeNot, Honey, or Rakuten for the latest codes. Browser extensions like Honey automatically apply the best coupons at checkout.
- Double up with cashback: Sites like Rakuten or TopCashback give you a percentage of your purchase back just for clicking through their links.
- Smart tip: Combine a coupon code with a cashback offer for double the savings.
2. Sign Up for Newsletters (Then Unsubscribe)
Retailers often offer a discount—like 10% or 15% off your first order—just for signing up for their email newsletter. If you’re a first-time buyer or planning a one-time purchase, this is an easy win.
- Use it strategically: Sign up, use the welcome discount, then unsubscribe to avoid future inbox clutter.
- Smart tip: Create a separate email account for shopping so you can keep those deals without overwhelming your main inbox.
3. Leave Items in Your Cart
This tactic works best when you’re logged in to a site. Many retailers will send follow-up emails with a reminder—and sometimes an extra discount—to encourage you to complete your purchase.
- Smart tip: Wait 24 to 48 hours after leaving your cart to see if you get an exclusive offer.
4. Compare Prices Before You Buy
Don’t fall into the trap of assuming the first site you land on has the best price. Use price comparison tools like Google Shopping, ShopSavvy, or browser extensions like InvisibleHand to see who’s offering the best deal.
- Smart tip: Factor in shipping fees and taxes when comparing final costs.
5. Shop During Sales and Promotions
Timing is everything when it comes to saving online. Plan purchases around big sales like Black Friday, Cyber Monday, end-of-season clearances, and mid-year sales.
- Also watch for: Flash sales, daily deals, and special discount codes for holidays or your birthday.
- Smart tip: Add items to your wish list or cart ahead of time so you can quickly snag them when a sale hits.
6. Take Advantage of Free Shipping
Shipping fees can quickly add up and kill the thrill of a good deal. Many retailers offer free shipping once you hit a minimum spend—sometimes as low as $25.
- Workaround: If you’re a few dollars short of the threshold, add a small, useful item instead of paying for shipping.
- Smart tip: Join loyalty programs or use services like Amazon Prime or Walmart+ for free shipping perks if you shop frequently.
7. Use Virtual Discount Gift Cards
Websites like Raise, CardCash, and Gift Card Granny sell unused gift cards at discounted rates. You can buy a $100 card for $90 and use it at full value online.
- Smart tip: Use discounted gift cards on top of sales and coupons to multiply your savings.
Shop Smarter, Not Harder
You don’t need to give up your online shopping habit to stay within budget—you just need a smarter strategy. By using a combination of tools, timing, and tactics, you can save big while still getting everything you need. Next time you’re browsing your favorite online store, put these tips to work—and watch your savings add up with every checkout.