Best Online Shopping Tricks to Save Money

Online shopping is convenient, quick, and fun. But without smart habits, it’s easy to overspend and miss out on great savings. The good news is, with a bit of planning and a few savvy tricks, anyone can shop online and save money like a pro.

Here are the best online shopping tricks you can start using today to keep more money in your wallet.

a woman holding shopping bags and talking on a cell phone

1. Add Items to Your Cart and Wait

One simple trick is to add your desired items to the shopping cart and then leave the website without buying immediately. Many e-commerce sites will send you a discount coupon or special offer to encourage you to complete the purchase. This is called the “abandoned cart” strategy.


2. Use Coupon and Promo Code Websites

Before checking out, always search for discount coupons or promo codes on websites like CouponDunia, GrabOn, or RetailMeNot. These codes can give you extra percentage discounts, cashback, or free shipping.


3. Shop During Sales and Special Events

Big sale events — like Diwali, Independence Day, Republic Day, or New Year — bring huge discounts and deals. Plan your shopping around these times to grab the best prices on big-ticket items.


4. Use Cashback and Reward Apps

Platforms like Paytm, CashKaro, PaisaWapas, and bank credit card reward programs offer cashback or points on your purchases. By shopping through these apps or portals, you get money back that accumulates over time, effectively lowering your total spend.


5. Compare Prices Across Websites

Don’t settle for the first price you see. Use price comparison sites like PriceDekho or Google Shopping to check prices on multiple platforms and pick the best deal.


6. Take Advantage of Free Shipping

Many websites offer free shipping if you cross a minimum purchase amount. If you’re close, consider adding small essentials to reach that limit instead of paying for shipping fees.


7. Buy Discounted Gift Cards

Some websites sell gift cards or vouchers at discounts. Buying these gift cards and using them for shopping can help you save 10-30% on your purchase.


8. Subscribe to Newsletters for Exclusive Deals

Many e-commerce platforms send exclusive offers and early access sales to their newsletter subscribers. Signing up could get you welcome discounts and alerts about flash sales.


9. Follow Brands on Social Media

Brands often post time-limited flash sales, discount codes, or giveaways on their social media pages. Following your favorite stores on Instagram, Facebook, or Twitter keeps you updated on these exclusive offers.


10. Use Bank and Credit Card Offers

Many banks tie up with e-commerce platforms to offer discounts, no-cost EMI, or cashback. Keep an eye on these deals and use credit cards that maximize your savings.


Summary Table: Online Shopping Tricks and Benefits

TrickHow It Saves MoneyPro Tip
Abandoned Cart DiscountsGet coupon codes after waitingUse this sparingly for best results
Coupon and Promo CodesExtra % discounts or free shippingCheck multiple coupon sites
Sale EventsBig slashes on pricesPlan purchases around festivals
Cashback AppsPartial money backCombine with other discounts
Price Comparison WebsitesFind lowest priceUse before buying expensive items
Free Shipping ThresholdsAvoid pay-for-delivery feesAdd small items to cross limit
Discounted Gift CardsBuy at less than face valuePurchase from trusted sellers
NewslettersExclusive deals, early salesUse a dedicated email for signups
Social Media OffersFlash sales, giveawaysFollow favorite brands actively
Bank & Credit Card DealsExtra discounts and no-cost EMIUse cards with good rewards

FAQs on Saving Money While Shopping Online

Q1: Are abandoned cart offers common on Indian sites?
Yes, many top Indian sites like Myntra, Flipkart, and Amazon send discount codes if you leave items in your cart. Just don’t abuse this trick.

Q2: Can promo codes be combined with other offers?
Sometimes yes, sometimes no. Always check the terms and conditions before applying.

Q3: How can I avoid impulse purchases during sales?
Make a list of what you need beforehand and stick to it to avoid overspending.

Q4: Which cashback apps are best for Indian shoppers?
Popular ones include CashKaro, PaisaWapas, and GoPaisa. They cover most major retailers and offer good cashback.

Q5: Are bank card offers really worth it?
Yes, especially if you shop frequently online. Offers like no-cost EMI and extra cashback add up to significant savings.

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