Holiday shopping can feel more like a blitz on your bank account instead of a joyful pursuit to find the perfect presents for your loved ones. Even if you’re a pro at sniffing out the best deals, there are hacks galore to take your savings to new heights. With the best online shopping hacks for the holidays, you can get amazing gifts at bargain prices. From retailer app tricks to email signup codes, here’s how to capture the wonder and generosity of the holiday season and leave the financial stress behind.
Create a Budget:
Setting a budget helps you prioritize your spending and prevents overspending. It ensures you stay within your financial limits and avoid impulse spending, especially when you’ve already checked off your list. This way, you won’t get into credit card debt, and you’ll avoid stressing out when it’s time to celebrate.
Because of the constraints, a budget encourages thoughtful spending, prompting you to consider each purchase and select meaningful gifts carefully. This aspect leads to a fulfilling holiday season where relationships are the center instead of possessions.
Start Early:
Starting your holiday shopping early gives you more time to compare prices, find the best deals, and avoid the rush. It also lets you space out your purchases to accommodate budgetary needs.
In addition, getting a jump on holiday shopping lets you plan purchases according to where you are in the holiday season. For example, electronics and video games often have deals and promotional releases in November.
Retailers are also running Black Friday deals earlier and earlier in November. One company following this trend is Wayfair, which started its early Black Friday specials on November 1.
Follow Retailers on Social Media for Deals:
Many retailers announce exclusive discounts and promotions on their social media channels. By following them, you can stay updated on special offers and take advantage of them.
Buy on Free Shipping Day:
Free Shipping Day is an annual event where many online retailers offer free shipping with guaranteed delivery by Christmas Eve. Buying on this day (December 14) can help you save on shipping costs. Free Shipping Day is also a safety net if you put off shopping earlier in the season.
Personalize Gifts:
One way to shop efficiently is to personalize the same gift, eliminating hours spent hunting for different items. For example, you can purchase the same cute coffee mug or throw blanket and add the name or another identifying feature of each recipient. This way, you can save time and remain thoughtful towards each person on your list.
Check Local Retailers First:
Supporting local businesses not only stimulates the local economy but can also lead to unique finds that may not be available through larger online retailers. Plus, they may run discounts and deals to beat larger competitors.
Use a Browser Extension:
Browser extensions like Honey or Capital One Shopping can help you find and apply coupon codes or cashback offers automatically while you shop online, saving you money. You can also create a wish list and receive notifications when specific items go on sale. This way, you’ll get the best deal every time you check out.
Use First-Time Customer Promotions:
Many online stores offer special discounts or promotions for first-time customers. For example, vacuum company Bissell gives a 10% coupon when you sign up with your email address. A second email address can help you obtain these offers if you’ve bought products from a company before.
Optimize Credit Card Points and Rewards:
Some credit cards offer rewards points or cashback for purchases. A credit card that offers holiday-specific rewards or bonuses can help you rack up hundreds in return for a season of shopping.
On the other hand, cash-strapped shoppers can use the inverse strategy of using credit card points for holiday purchases. This option means saving your points throughout the year and using them all to pay for gifts in November and December. You’ll avoid a hefty credit card bill afterward and use your points on those who matter most.
Lastly, the most profitable choice may be a retailer credit card. These cards can offer significant perks, such as cash back, discounts, or signup rewards. However, it’s crucial to review the terms for annual fees and other obligations that counteract the benefits.
Buy Discounted Gift Cards:
Websites and apps often sell discounted gift cards for various retailers. You can get 2% to 5% off a gift card for online retailers you visit when shopping. Doing so provides a modest upfront bonus for shopping at your favorite stores.
Buy Gadgets on Black Friday and Cyber Monday:
Black Friday and Cyber Monday are legendary for unmatchable bargains on electronics. For example, Walmart’s Black Friday deals this year (which run all through November) include giant discounts on Apple Watches.
Use an Amazon Prime Free Trial:
If you’re not already an Amazon Prime member, consider using a free trial during the holiday season to take advantage of free two-day shipping and other Prime benefits. The trial lasts for thirty days and gives you access to numerous deals. You can avoid paying for membership by canceling when the trial expires.
DIY Gifts and Decorations:
Making your own holiday decorations can be a fun and cost-effective way to add a personal touch to your home. If you’re a crafter, a basic set of supplies can give you endless possibilities: paper snowflakes, homemade garlands, and pinecone ornaments, to name a few.
This approach also extends to gifts. For example, you could jar a rib dry-rub spice blend or a hot chocolate mix for a delicious, budget-friendly present.
Use a Receipt Scanning App:
Apps like Ibotta or Fetch Rewards allow you to earn cash back or gift cards by scanning your receipts after making purchases. Doing so shaves pennies off each dollar spent. Combining this tactic with others can push your overall savings to new levels.
Set Up Auto-Cashback:
Some cashback apps provide payments for linking your credit or debit card and buying products from different retailers. This type of app, such as Dosh, doesn’t require receipt scanning, creating a less fussy cashback experience.
Delay Checking Out:
Some online retailers send unique promotions to shoppers who fill up their cart but don’t check out. In these situations, the company may email you a time-sensitive offer to reduce the final price and persuade you to complete your purchase. Therefore, you can eke out extra savings by filling your cart and letting it sit for a few days.
Up Your Christmas Tree Game:
Two strategies can lower your Christmas tree costs. For live-tree diehards, waiting until the week before Christmas will help you get the best deal, with Christmas Eve providing the lowest prices.
On the other hand, artificial trees cost more initially but are cost-effective over time. Buying an artificial tree in the off-season (such as during Black Friday/Cyber Monday or the days and weeks following Christmas) allows you to snag an inexpensive tree that will last for decades.
Take Advantage of Discounts:
Another one of the best online shopping hacks for the holidays is to look for discounts. Many retailers offer special discounts for veterans, students, teachers, and seniors. Be sure to check if you or someone on your gift list qualifies.
Download Retailer Apps:
Some retailer apps have exclusive deals not offered on their websites. For example, PetSmart has a Treats Trail minigame in its mobile app that provides coupons you can only obtain by playing.
The Bottomline:
Mastering the best online shopping hacks for the holidays is the key to a seamless and cost-effective festive shopping experience. Whether it’s utilizing discounts or maximizing cashback rewards, these strategies empower you to navigate the virtual marketplace with ease and uncover unbeatable deals.