13+ Smart Shopping Tips to Save Money on Amazon

In the world of online shopping, every penny saved is a triumph, and there are untapped ways to ensure that your checkout total is as minimal as possible.

Getting to know the insider tips can transform the way you shop on the platform.

Imagine having a friend in the business who’s just revealed the top tricks of the trade—that’s the kind of golden advice that can lead to consistently lower prices and happier purchases on Amazon.

1. Maximize Your Prime Membership Rewards

amazon-prime
  • Kindle Access: Enjoy a selection of books at no extra cost.
  • Music and Video Streaming: Unlimited access to movies, shows, and songs.
  • Grubhub Perk: Delight in one year of complimentary food delivery.
  • Prescription Deliveries: Get your medications sent directly to your door for free.

Make the most of these features and more to enrich your Amazon Prime experience.

2. Amazon Outlet: Your Destination for Overstock Savings

Amazon’s Outlet section is a treasure trove where you can uncover discounts reaching up to 50% on a wide array of overstock merchandise.

Whether you’re hunting for major savings on home appliances or seeking affordable prices on top-tier kitchen items, this lesser-known corner of Amazon has deals that are tough to beat.

3. Click, Clip, and Copy: How Amazon Coupons Work

To unlock savings on Amazon, keep an eye out for a small, flag-shaped digital coupon just beneath the product’s price area.

Simply ticking the box activates your discount.

Here’s a quick guide to ensure you snag those deals:

  • Look for the coupon box under the price and click it.
  • Don’t forget to look for a promo code beneath it, which you’ll use at payment time.

Remember to apply the code at checkout to enjoy your savings!

4. Get Paid For No Rush Shipping

Opting for Amazon’s No Rush Shipping can add a bonus to your wallet.

When you’re not in a hurry, select a later shipping date at checkout to accrue credits—typically $1 each time.

This small delay, often a mere day or two, rewards you with credits once the item is dispatched.

It’s a simple way to earn as you wait.

5. Secret Price Hack: Check Other Colors

When shopping, remember to explore various color options for your item.

Prices may vary depending on color due to supply or demand.

Before finalizing your cart, take a moment to compare costs across different hues – a simple click could lead to savings.

6. Prime for Less: Lower Your Subscription Cost

Amazon Prime offers several membership levels with varied pricing.

Here’s how you can save on your subscription:

  • Prime Access: Eligible government assistance recipients, such as SNAP EBT or Medicaid participants, only pay $6.99/month.
  • Prime Student: If you’re attending a two- or four-year college, enjoy Prime benefits at $7.49/month or $69/year.

Remember, these special rates make enjoying Prime benefits more affordable.

7. Evaluating Sales Effectiveness: Avoiding Overhyped Discounts

Discount

When you spot those winter boots at a tempting 17% discount on Amazon, pause and ponder the real value of the offer.

Remember, Amazon’s prices are dynamic and could fluctuate.

It’s wise to verify the price history through CamelCamelCamel, a tool that tracks and charts the price trends of Amazon products.

This insight lets you gauge if you’re securing a genuine bargain or if it’s better to wait.

Enable The Camelizer feature for notifications on price reductions for items on your watch list.

8. Save Money by Skipping Crappy Products (with Fake Reviews)

Enhance your shopping experience by utilizing Fakespot, a clever browser add-on.

This tool employs artificial intelligence to sift through reviews on Amazon, distinguishing genuine customer feedback from inauthentic bot-generated responses.

Shop smarter with this AI ally by your side.

9. Maybe 30 Days is Enough? Save Your Dollar

  • Sign up for Amazon Prime’s free 30-day trial
  • Enjoy all Prime benefits without the cost
  • Set a reminder to cancel before the trial ends to avoid charges
  • Experience the full service and decide if it’s right for you without the commitment

10. Save on Perishables: Subscribe and Save

  • Automatic shipments: No need to remember to reorder each month.
  • Savings: Get up to 15% off on regular purchases.
  • Convenience: Products are delivered to your doorstep.
  • Control: Easily adjust or cancel your subscription at any time.

11. Strike When It’s Hot: Today’s Deals And Lightning Deals

Amazon frequently updates its special offers section with Today’s Deals, which typically expire at midnight, offering a variety of discounts for 24 hours.

Lightning Deals pack a punch with significant price reductions but are fleeting, often only lasting a few hours or while supply lasts.

Keep an eye on these rapid deals; they’re a shopper’s delight for snagging great products at lower prices.

12. Plan Ahead: Consider an Amazon Credit Card

Maximizing your savings on Amazon can be as simple as using the Amazon Prime Rewards Visa Signature Card.

This card, coming with no annual fee, lets you earn:

  • 5% back at Amazon and Whole Foods Market
  • 2% back at restaurants, drug stores, and gas stations
  • 1% back on all other purchases

It’s tailored for frequent Amazon shoppers and could effectively lower your spending.

13. Max Out The Benefits: Share Your Membership

  • Adults: Share with one other adult.
  • Teens: Two spots available for teenagers.
  • Children: Up to four children can enjoy the perks.

Remember, sharing your account doesn’t mean having to pay for extra memberships.

If you’ve got teens away at school, they can still use your account back home.

14. Always Check the Return Policy

Returns Refunds

To ensure a stress-free shopping experience, always review the return guidelines before making a purchase.

Here are some friendly reminders:

  • Free Returns: Ideal, but not always available.
  • Return Shipping Costs: You might be responsible for these if you decide to send an item back.
  • Understand that unexpected return fees can add up quickly, so it’s better to be informed upfront.

Remember, this could save you money and prevent any unwelcome charges.

Happy shopping!