When you shop online, mastering how to be a smart shopper isn’t about luck. It’s about knowing the best tricks.
In this guide you’ll learn 10 simple habits top bargain hunters swear by.
Compare prices across sites
You probably check one website and move on. But smart shoppers scan multiple sites to spot price gaps. So why pay more for the same item?
- Use price comparison sites like Google Shopping or PriceGrabber
- Try browser extensions such as CamelCamelCamel or Honey for Amazon and beyond
- Browse retailer clearance pages for hidden markdowns
Cash in on coupons
Coupons aren’t just for Sunday papers. With a quick search you can uncover codes that take 10-percent off or more. Let’s be honest, scoring free savings feels great.
- Install a coupon extension that auto-applies codes at checkout
- Search coupon aggregators with terms like “promo code” and the retailer’s name
- Sign up for retailer emails to get welcome codes and exclusive offers
Read product reviews
Before you buy, dive into product reviews. Real feedback from real buyers can flag quirks or praise hidden perks. Don’t skip the low ratings, they’re often key to spotting issues.
- Look for repeated comments about quality or performance
- Check out review photos or videos to see the product in action
- Note how the seller responds to negative feedback
Track price drops
Price tags can be fluid, not set in stone. With simple tools you can watch items and grab them when they dip.
- Set up alerts on tracking sites like Keepa or Slickdeals
- Use browser add-ons that notify you when prices fall
- Subscribe to deal forums for community-curated price drop posts
Use wishlist reminders
Wishlists aren’t just for birthdays. They can trigger reminder emails or price alerts when items go on sale. It’s like having your own personal shopping assistant.
- Add items to your wishlist on major retail sites
- Turn on email or app notifications for those wishlisted products
- Review your list weekly to spot sudden markdowns
Check return policies
Sometimes the best deal can go south after a defective item arrives. Before you click buy, skim the fine print on returns, exchanges, and restocking fees. A free return policy can be a game changer.
- Confirm the return window and any shipping costs
- Watch out for restocking or processing fees
- Make sure warranty terms match your needs
Opt for free shipping
Shipping costs can sneak up and wreck a good discount. Look for free shipping codes, minimum spend thresholds, or retailer membership perks. Sometimes paying a small fee for faster delivery makes sense, but usually free is best.
- Combine orders to hit free shipping minimums
- Redeem store credit or gift cards to offset shipping
- Choose in-store or curbside pickup when available
Sign up for alerts
Retailers often reward subscribers with exclusive deals. Newsletters can sneak that flash sale right into your inbox. No spam, just deals you care about.
- Tailor subscription preferences to your shopping interests
- Use email filters or folders to keep deal alerts organized
- Unsubscribe when you’ve scored enough savings
Bundle purchases wisely
Buying in bulk or bundling items can yield bigger discounts. If you need multiple items, group them in one order. It also helps meet free shipping thresholds.
- Coordinate purchases with friends or family to share costs
- Compare unit prices between bundle and single-item offers
- Watch for multipack promotions on essentials
Subscribe and save
Many retailers let you subscribe to regular shipments, often at a discount. Household staples like paper towels, coffee, and pet food are perfect candidates. You set the frequency, then sit back and enjoy the savings.
- Adjust delivery schedules to avoid overstocking
- Skip or cancel upcoming shipments in your account settings
- Combine subscription perks with occasional one-time buys
Key takeaways
- Scan multiple websites before you buy
- Apply coupons and promo codes at checkout
- Read both positive and negative reviews
- Track price changes with alerts and extensions
- Leverage wishlists and newsletter sign-ups
- Review return and restocking policies carefully
- Aim for free or low-cost shipping
- Bundle and bulk buy when it makes sense
- Use subscription services for regular essentials
Start with one tip today and notice how it can improve your next purchase. Got a shopping hack? Let us know in the comments below so everyone can learn from it.