Ditch the Clutter: How I Save Money with One Easy Shopping App

When I was little, my mom had a bright red plastic case filled with coupons she clipped from the newspaper. It looked like a tiny file cabinet, complete with tabs labeled for all the stores we frequented. At checkout, she’d pull out her glasses, flip through each tab, and hunt for the perfect deal to match our purchases.

Even as a kid, I remember thinking, “There has to be a better way.”

Thankfully, now there is.

Today, if you’re a tech-savvy shopper like me, you’ve probably ditched the scissors and paper coupons in favor of shopping apps. While many retailers offer their own apps or loyalty programs, I’ve found something even better — a single shopping rewards app that works at all my favorite stores.

Let me show you how I save (and earn!) with just one app.

Why I Ditched Store-Specific Apps

Store apps are fine — they often come with coupons, loyalty points, or member perks. However, the problem is you have to juggle a different app for every store. It becomes overwhelming fast, and they only reward you for shopping at one place.

That’s exactly why I started using shopping rewards apps instead. These let you earn rewards across multiple retailers by doing things you already do — like walking into stores, browsing, scanning barcodes, shopping online, or even watching videos.

Ultimately, the trick is finding a shopping rewards app that fits your routine.

What I Look For in a Shopping Rewards App

If you’re going to use an app regularly (which is key to earning the most rewards), it has to check a few important boxes:

  • Cross-platform compatibility: It needs to work on both Android and Apple devices. I use an iPhone, but I love sharing finds with my mom, who’s team Samsung

  • In-store and online earning: I’m about 50/50 with how I shop — so I need an app that covers both

  • Ease of use: If an app feels like a chore, I won’t use it consistently. I want something that adds a little fun to my routine

Why Shopkick Is My Go-To Shopping Rewards App

My absolute favorite? Shopkick.

Shopkick rewards you with points — called kicks — for doing everyday shopping activities, such as:

  • Walking into stores

  • Scanning product barcodes

  • Making purchases (in-store and online)

  • Watching videos or discovering new products in the app

Once you collect enough kicks, you can redeem them for gift cards to popular retailers like Target, Walmart, Amazon, and more. Personally, I’ve used mine to stock up on groceries, grab household essentials, and even treat myself to something special.

Shopping Feels Like a Game — And That’s the Best Part

What I love most about Shopkick is that it turns every shopping trip into a mini scavenger hunt. Suddenly, I’m excited to check store aisles and discover new products. Even when I’m at home, I can earn kicks just by watching videos or browsing deals in the app.

In addition, the Discover tab is perfect for finding quick recipes or exploring trending items — especially when I need a little inspiration.

Even better? You can use Shopkick alongside other store apps. That way, you earn rewards from multiple places at once. Total win.

Ready to Start Earning While You Shop?

If you’re ready to simplify your shopping routine and get rewarded for what you’re already doing, download Shopkick. It’s free, available on both Android and iPhone, and works whether you shop online or in stores.

So ditch the coupon clutter and make every shopping trip more rewarding. Trust me — your future self (and your wallet) will thank you.

Get your kicks. Download Shopkick and start earning today.

5 Easy and Fun Crafts for Kids (No Screens Required!)

Rainy Saturday? School break boredom? Or maybe just a “no screens” kind of day? Whatever the reason, having a few fun and easy crafts for kids in your back pocket can turn any afternoon around. These five hands-on activities are simple, budget-friendly, and sure to bring out everyone’s creative side.

Let’s dive into the fun!

1. Homemade Play Dough

Why buy Play Dough when you can whip up a batch at home? With just flour, salt, water, and a bit of food coloring or paint, you’ll have a soft, squishy dough that’s perfect for tiny hands. Kids love helping with the mixing—and you’ll love how affordable it is.

Pro Tip: Check out Sea Lemon’s DIY recipe on YouTube for a quick tutorial.

2. Shaving Cream Marble Art

This one is messy in the best way. Just spread shaving cream in a shallow tray, drop in food coloring, swirl with a toothpick, and gently press a piece of paper on top. Peel back to reveal a swirling, marble masterpiece!

Want to try it? Follow this guide from Alice & Lois for step-by-step instructions.

3. Friendship Bracelets

Friendship bracelets never go out of style. With embroidery thread and a few simple knots, kids can create colorful accessories to gift or trade. It’s a great craft for groups or solo time—and it teaches patience and focus.

Not sure where to start? Try DIY Projects for Teens.

4. Cool Whip Bath Paint

For a creative (and edible!) bath time activity, mix Cool Whip with a few drops of food coloring. Let your little ones “paint” the tub, the tiles—or even themselves. It’s safe, easy to clean, and a total hit with toddlers. Inspired by Busy Toddler, this idea makes bath time a blast.

5. Classic Coloring Time

Sometimes the easiest activities are the most relaxing. Coloring is perfect for quiet time, and printable coloring pages make it fresh every time. Search online for free printables, grab crayons or markers, and let the imagination flow.

Hang finished masterpieces on the fridge or gift them to loved ones as homemade cards.

Save These Ideas for Anytime Fun

These easy crafts for kids are great for rainy days, summer afternoons, or whenever you need some screen-free fun. Try one — or all five — and tag @Shopkick on Instagram or Facebook to show off your creations!

And don’t forget: If you’re stocking up on supplies, open the Shopkick app while you shop. You can earn kicks at stores like Target, Walmart, and CVS, then redeem them for free gift cards — perfect for your next craft day!