Skip to content

Surprising Foods to Grill This Summer: 8 Unique Ideas

Grilling is one of our favorite summer pastimes — and it’s a perfect excuse to try some surprising foods to grill that go beyond burgers and hot dogs. Sure, we love classics like kebabs and hotdogs, but summer is the ideal time to get creative with new flavors and ingredients. From fruit to veggies to unexpected mains, these eight ideas will bring fresh inspiration to your next cookout.

1. Avocados:

Everything is better with avocado, right? Believe it or not, it tastes even more amazing when grilled! Let it cool and add it to egg or chicken salad, or mix it into your guac for a smoky twist.

How to Grill: Slice the avocado in half, remove the pit (but keep the skin), brush with oil, and grill for 2–3 minutes on each side.

2. Carrots:

Carrots are a staple in many family meals — and grilling brings out their natural sweetness even more. This is one of the most underrated yet surprising foods to grill.

How to Grill: Grill carrots in a pan with olive oil, rosemary, salt, pepper, and thyme. Cook for 10–12 minutes, adjusting the heat as needed.

3. Peaches:

Peaches are already delicious, but grilling them caramelizes the sugars and deepens the flavor. They work well in desserts, cocktails, or on their own.

How to Grill: Cut in half and place on the grill for 8–10 minutes until tender and lightly charred.

4. Pizza:

Skip the oven and head to the grill for pizza night. Grilled pizza creates a crisp, smoky crust that’s reminiscent of a wood-fired oven.

How to Grill: Use store-bought or homemade dough. Brush with oil, grill one side, flip, and add sauce, cheese, and toppings. Cook until the cheese is melted.

5. Watermelon:

Yes, grilled watermelon is a thing — and it’s a game-changer. Pair with feta in a salad or drizzle with lime juice for dessert.

How to Grill: Cut into wedges and grill for 4–6 minutes, flipping once. Add salt for savory dishes or lime for something sweet.

6. Lettuce:

Grilled romaine takes Caesar salad to the next level. It adds a smoky flavor that pairs perfectly with creamy dressing and croutons.

How to Grill: Cut romaine hearts in half, brush with oil, sprinkle with salt and pepper, and grill each side for 2–3 minutes.

7. Pineapple:

Sweet, juicy, and caramelized — grilled pineapple works with savory or sweet dishes. It’s also one of the easiest fruits to grill.

How to Grill: Place slices directly on the grill for 2–3 minutes per side, flipping occasionally.

8. Quesadillas:

Quesadillas get a crispy, golden finish on the grill that’s tough to beat. They’re also a great way to feed a crowd quickly.

How to Grill: Assemble your quesadilla, then grill both sides until the tortilla is golden and the cheese is fully melted.

Make the Most of Every Cookout with Shopkick

Whether you’re grilling surprising foods or sticking to the classics, don’t forget to earn rewards while you shop for ingredients. With the Shopkick app, you can earn kicks (aka points) by walking into stores, scanning products, and uploading your receipts — or even by shopping online.

Download the free Shopkick app today and turn your summer grocery runs into gift cards. Then, head to our Facebook page and tell us: which of these surprising foods to grill are you trying first?

How to Get Free Sephora Gift Cards: 3 Simple Tips

Your next beauty haul? It could be free.

Whether you’re prepping for a night out or just restocking your skincare faves, Sephora is the go-to for all things glam. But here’s the best part: you don’t always have to pay full price. In fact, you can earn free Sephora gift cards with a few simple moves — and no, we’re not talking about clipping coupons.

Here are three easy ways to turn your everyday shopping habits into Sephora savings.

1. Join the Sephora Beauty Insider Program

If you shop Sephora, you should definitely be a Beauty Insider. This free rewards program lets you earn points with every purchase, which can be redeemed for samples, exclusive sets, and savings during Sephora’s big annual sales.

The more you spend, the more perks you unlock:

  • Free birthday gift

  • Early access to events

  • Free shipping

  • Insider-only discounts

While it doesn’t technically give you gift cards, the rewards are pretty close and definitely worth signing up for.

2. Earn Rewards with Shopkick

If you’re looking for an easy way to earn actual Sephora gift cards, Shopkick is your best bet. Shopkick is a free rewards app that lets you earn points (called kicks) by doing things you already do:

  • Walk into popular stores

  • Scan product barcodes

  • Upload receipts from qualifying purchases

  • Shop online

  • Watch videos and browse in-app offers

Once you’ve collected enough kicks, trade them in for gift cards to Sephora — and other top retailers like Target, Ulta, and Amazon.

Pro tip: You don’t need to make a purchase to start earning. Even scanning featured products in-store can add up fast.

3. (Optional) Try Survey Apps — If You Have Time

Some apps, like Survey Junkie, offer Sephora gift cards in exchange for completing surveys. These can be a nice supplement to your savings, but keep in mind they often require a significant time investment. If you’re multitasking (say, watching Netflix or waiting in line), they might be worth a few extra points — but don’t rely on them as your primary method.

Shop. Earn. Glow.

Sephora splurges feel even better when they’re free. Whether you’re earning perks through Beauty Insider or racking up kicks with Shopkick, there are plenty of ways to treat yourself — without blowing your budget.

Download Shopkick today and start earning toward your next Sephora haul. It’s fast, fun, and totally free.

Want even more savings inspo? Follow us on Instagram and Facebook to discover bonus tips, real user wins, and limited-time kick offers.

3 Ways to Get Free Starbucks Gift Cards for Shopping Sprees

Let’s be honest—between coffee dates, errands, and weekend plans, your calendar is probably as packed as mine. I never turn down a chance to catch up with friends, but finding time to shop can be tricky. Lately, I’ve resorted to early mornings and late-night Target runs just to get everything done.

Thankfully, one thing gets me through: coffee. And what’s even better than a Starbucks latte? Scoring free gift cards to pay for it.

If you’re looking to sip while you shop, here are three easy ways to earn Starbucks gift cards—no coupon clipping required.

1. Use the Starbucks® Rewards Program

This one’s a no-brainer for regular Starbucks visitors. Download the Starbucks app and sign up for the free Rewards program. Every dollar you spend earns you two stars. Once you hit 300 stars, you’ll unlock Gold Status, with freebies like handcrafted drinks, food, and more.

Tip: Load money onto your Starbucks card in the app before you order. That way, you’ll earn stars on every purchase—and rack up rewards faster.

2. Apply for the Starbucks® Rewards Visa Card

Want to take those stars even further? The Starbucks Rewards Visa Card lets you earn stars not only at Starbucks, but also on everyday purchases like groceries, gas, and even online shopping.

You’ll collect points wherever you swipe—and those points convert to stars in your account. Translation: every coffee run (and grocery haul) brings you closer to your next free drink.

3. Earn Starbucks Gift Cards with Shopkick

Shopkick is my favorite rewards app, hands down. It’s free, easy to use, and turns everyday errands into a fun scavenger hunt for points—called kicks.

You can earn kicks by:

  • Walking into stores

  • Scanning barcodes (no purchase needed!)

  • Uploading receipts

  • Shopping online

  • Watching videos and completing app-based challenges

Once you rack up enough kicks, you can redeem them for gift cards to Starbucks (or dozens of other popular retailers like Target and Amazon). You can even stack Shopkick with your Starbucks Rewards or Visa Card for extra earning power.

Bonus: Shopkick makes errands way more fun—and it’s a great excuse to treat yourself to a coffee after a successful scan session.

Fuel Your Shopping (and Your Coffee Habit)

Between loyalty stars, bonus points, and app rewards, earning Starbucks gift cards is easier than ever. Whether you’re shopping in-store or online, these tips can help you sip and save at the same time.

Ready to start earning?
Download Shopkick today and join thousands of savvy shoppers turning their everyday trips into rewards.

Double Rewards: Save More at Walmart with Shopkick App

Over the years, I’ve learned a few key shopping lessons. First: missing a sale isn’t the end of the world — there’s always another one. Second: share your tips with friends, because good advice has a way of coming back around. And third? Some savings are good, but stacked savings are even better.

That’s where shopping apps come in. I’ve found that combining store-specific apps with rewards apps like Shopkick is one of the easiest ways to save more without changing how you shop. If Walmart is one of your go-to stores, here’s exactly how to stack rewards and make your budget go further.

The Power of Pairing Shopping Apps

Want to level up your savings strategy? Start by using two types of apps together:

  • Store apps like the Walmart app

  • Rewards apps like Shopkick that work across multiple retailers

Using both gives you double the benefits: better prices and more rewards — all from your regular shopping trips.

Step 1: Use the Walmart App for Smarter Shopping

Although Walmart’s Savings Catcher feature has been retired, the app is still packed with helpful tools. With the Walmart app, you can:

  • Check product prices

  • Track past purchases

  • Earn Walmart Rewards (on eligible items)

  • Schedule pickups or deliveries

It’s a solid way to streamline your shopping experience and spot deals fast.

Step 2: Stack Extra Rewards with Shopkick

Here’s where things get fun. Shopkick is a free shopping rewards app that gives you kicks (points) for actions you’re already doing — both in-store and online. Here’s how to earn kicks at Walmart:

  • Walk into the store

  • Scan featured item barcodes

  • Upload your Walmart receipt

  • Shop through the app (for online purchases)

You don’t have to buy anything to start earning — even scanning products adds up. Once you’ve earned enough kicks, you can trade them for free Walmart gift cards (or others, like Target, Amazon, and Starbucks).

Why I Always Use Both

Pairing the Walmart app with Shopkick is a no-brainer. The Walmart app helps me shop smarter, while Shopkick turns those shopping trips into rewards. Even better? Shopkick also works at places like Sam’s Club, Target, CVS, and more — so the savings don’t stop at Walmart.

My Pro Tip: Don’t Shop Without It

Before your next trip, download Shopkick and open it when you walk into Walmart. It only takes a second to start earning rewards, and those kicks add up fast.

Get Started and Save More

Maximize your Walmart shopping experience with a one-two punch of smart planning and rewarding habits. Download the Shopkick app today, and follow us on Instagram and Facebook for more savings tips, limited-time offers, and real user wins.

How to Get a Walmart eGift Card for Free

Walmart has been a staple in my life since college—from cheap dorm essentials to quick grocery hauls. These days, I’m shopping with a different goal in mind: stretching my tech budget. And the easiest way I’ve found to do that? Earning free Walmart eGift cards with apps I already use while shopping.

Whether you’re into smart home gadgets, need a new streaming device, or just want to offset your next big purchase, here’s how to earn Walmart eGift cards the easy (and free) way.

1. Use Shopkick to Earn Walmart eGift Cards While You Shop

Shopkick is my favorite way to turn everyday errands into rewards. You earn kicks (Shopkick points) for:

  • Walking into Walmart

  • Scanning select product barcodes

  • Uploading your receipt after purchase

  • Shopping online through the app

  • Watching short videos or browsing content in the app

Once you’ve earned enough kicks, you can redeem them for gift cards to top retailers—including Walmart.

It’s basically a gamified version of shopping. No spreadsheets, no coupon clipping, no changing your routine. You just open the app, start earning, and enjoy free rewards.

Pro tip: Use Shopkick at multiple stores (like Target, Walgreens, and Sam’s Club) and still redeem your points for Walmart gift cards. Flexibility = more ways to save.

2. Stack Rewards with Other Savings Tools

Want to maximize your earnings? Try these stacking strategies:

  • Use manufacturer coupons at checkout for instant savings

  • Pay with a rewards credit card for cashback or points

  • Combine Shopkick kicks with other rebate apps like Ibotta or Checkout 51

  • Join Walmart’s loyalty program (Walmart+) for perks like free delivery and fuel savings

The more layers you stack, the more you save—without doubling your effort.

Why Shopkick Is My Go-To

I’ve tried a lot of rewards apps over the years, but Shopkick stands out because it’s easy, flexible, and—let’s be honest—fun. It turns every shopping trip into a mini scavenger hunt. I’ve earned gift cards for everything from groceries to gadgets, and it’s genuinely changed how I approach errands.

Plus, you can earn from home too. Just open the app to discover ways to earn kicks without stepping outside.

Ready to Start Earning?

Download the free Shopkick app and join a community of savvy shoppers who are already earning rewards at Walmart and beyond. It’s free, it’s easy, and it’ll make your next tech haul (or grocery run) a little lighter on your wallet.

For even more saving hacks and rewards tips, follow us on Facebook and Instagram.

Ditch the Coupon Drawer: How to Maximize Rewards with Multiple Rebate Apps

I used to have a kitchen drawer overflowing with coupons, rebates, and special offers — a chaotic but crucial tool for stretching my budget. It was packed with mailers, Sunday clippings, and receipt offers. Sometimes I found what I needed. But often, it was just too much to sort through.

Then I discovered rebate apps — and everything changed. Goodbye, paper chaos. Hello, easy-to-use smartphone tools that actually make saving money enjoyable.

Now that drawer holds glue sticks, old vacation souvenirs, and maybe a banana chip or two — but zero stress.

Can You Use Multiple Rebate Apps at Once?
Short answer: absolutely. In fact, using more than one rebate app is one of the best ways to maximize savings. With a little planning, you can stack rewards across apps and stretch your dollar even further — all without needing scissors or newspaper inserts.

Let’s break it down.

Common Questions About Rebate Apps

What is a rebate app?
Rebate apps give you cash back or points after a purchase, unlike coupons that save you money upfront. You shop like usual, submit your receipt, and earn rewards later — often in the form of cash or gift cards.

Do they cost money to use?
Nope! The best rebate apps, including Shopkick, are 100% free. (Tip: avoid any app that asks you to pay to access deals.)

Do I need to mail anything in?
Thankfully, no. Most rebate apps let you upload a photo of your receipt or scan product barcodes to verify your purchases.

How do I get paid?
Most apps offer flexible payout options: gift cards to top retailers like Amazon and Target, PayPal transfers, or other digital rewards.

What to Look for in the Best Rebate Apps

All rebate apps aren’t created equal. Look for features like:

  • Easy receipt uploads

  • Fun bonus opportunities (like barcode scanning!)

  • Multiple ways to earn rewards

  • Flexible redemption options

That’s why my go-to app is Shopkick. With Shopkick, you can:

  • Earn kicks just for walking into popular stores

  • Scan barcodes for featured products

  • Upload receipts after your shopping trip

  • Shop online through the app for even more rewards

  • Redeem your kicks for gift cards to stores you love

And yes — you can use Shopkick alongside other rebate apps. Double the tools, double the savings!

My Favorite Way to Stack Rewards

Here’s how a single shopping trip works for me:

  1. I check Shopkick for bonus kicks on featured products.

  2. While in the store, I scan barcodes and walk around to earn kicks.

  3. At checkout, I save my receipt.

  4. At home, I upload the same receipt to Shopkick and another rebate app.

  5. Rewards roll in from both!

It turns errands into a game — my kids even help scan items, and we compete to see who earns more kicks.

Say Goodbye to Coupon Clipping

The old paper coupon drawer may be gone, but my savings have never been better. Now I have a smarter, simpler system that’s fun to use and easy to stick with.

Want to turn your receipts into rewards?
Download Shopkick for free and join a community of savvy shoppers turning everyday purchases into gift cards.

Follow us on Instagram and Facebook for savings tips, bonus kick alerts, and shopping inspiration.

How to Earn Free Gift Cards by Watching Videos

These days, you can watch just about anything from the palm of your hand — trailers, tutorials, product reviews, and more. But did you know that watching videos can also earn you free gift cards?

It’s true: with the right app, your downtime can turn into reward time. Whether you’re on your lunch break or winding down in the evening, here’s how to turn short video clips into real perks.

The Best App to Earn Free Gift Cards: Shopkick

If you’re looking for a simple, legit way to get rewarded for watching videos, start with Shopkick. This free app gives you kicks (points) for watching short in-app videos about featured products, brands, or shopping deals.

But here’s what makes Shopkick even better: watching videos is just one of many ways to earn. You can also collect kicks when you:

  • Walk into participating stores

  • Scan product barcodes in the aisle (no purchase required)

  • Upload grocery receipts

  • Shop online through the app

  • Refer friends to join

Once you’ve earned enough kicks, you can redeem them for gift cards to your favorite retailers — like Amazon, Target, Sephora, Best Buy, and more.

🎯 Pro tip: Watch a few videos in the app each day to keep your streak going and earn surprise bonus kicks!

Why Not All Video Rewards Apps Are Created Equal

You may come across other apps that promise gift cards for watching videos or completing offers, but be cautious. Many of them require you to:

  • Complete multiple steps beyond just watching (like surveys or downloads)

  • Share personal info for third-party offers

  • Accumulate very high point totals before cashing out

If you’re looking for a low-effort, high-trust option, Shopkick makes it easy — and fun — to earn without the extra hassle.

Your Screen Time, Upgraded

Whether you’re watching quick videos, browsing deals, or scanning products in-store, Shopkick makes everyday moments more rewarding.

Download Shopkick for free and start turning videos into gift cards today. It’s easy, it’s legit, and you’ll be surprised how fast those kicks add up.

Follow us on Instagram and Facebook for reward tips, bonus kick alerts, and shopping inspo from the Shopkick community.

8 Best Rewards Apps to Earn Free Gift Cards

From food truck finds to everyday errands, there’s nothing better than treating yourself—especially when it’s free. If you’re looking for easy ways to earn a little extra “fun money” without adding stress to your day, rewards apps are the answer.

Here are 8 of the best apps I’ve used to save money, earn gift cards, and stretch my budget—no coupon clipping required.

1. ShopkickBest All-Around App

Why it’s great:
Shopkick makes earning rewards feel like a game. You can collect kicks (aka points) for everyday actions—just walking into stores, scanning barcodes, uploading receipts, and shopping online.

How to earn:

  • Walk into select stores

  • Scan products in-store

  • Upload receipts

  • Shop online through the app

Perks:
Redeem kicks for gift cards to stores like Target, Amazon, and Ulta. You can even stack Shopkick with other cashback apps for double the rewards.

Best for: Versatility, gamified savings, and stacking with other apps

2. Starbucks Rewards App

Why it’s great:
Skip the line, order ahead, and earn stars for every purchase. Redeem for free drinks, food, and exclusive merch.

Best for: Coffee lovers who like freebies fast

3. Instacart (Shopper)

Why it’s great:
Get paid to shop for others. It’s a flexible way to earn income while running errands—and yes, you can still earn Shopkick kicks while doing it!

Best for: Side income and friends who love to shop together

4. Checkout 51

Why it’s great:
Weekly cash-back offers on groceries and household essentials. Just upload your receipt and collect the cashback when your purchase matches an offer.

Best for: Strategic shoppers who check deals before hitting the store

5. Google Opinion Rewards

Why it’s great:
Quick surveys = free Google Play credit. It’s perfect for Android users with a few minutes to spare between tasks.

Best for: Easy earnings through opinions

6. Foap

Why it’s great:
Sell your smartphone photos to brands or individuals. If your photo sells, you earn $5—and you can sell the same image multiple times.

Best for: Hobby photographers or creatives looking for passive income

7. CoinOut

Why it’s great:
Snap photos of nearly any receipt—from grocery stores to gas stations—and earn coins. The app has one of the lowest cash-out thresholds.

Best for: Casual earners who want simplicity and speed

8. Upside

Why it’s great:
Originally built for gas savings, Upside now offers cashback at restaurants and grocery stores too. Link a card or upload a receipt to start earning.

Best for: Drivers and foodies looking to save on the go

Final Thoughts: Stack, Save, and Earn More

There’s no single “best” app for everyone—but if you want one that checks all the boxes, Shopkick is the standout. Whether you’re walking into stores, scanning products, or shopping online, Shopkick turns everyday errands into opportunities to earn gift cards—without spending a dime.

Download Shopkick today and start earning free gift cards just by doing what you already do.

And don’t forget to follow us on Facebook and Instagram for savings tips, bonus kick alerts, and more!

7 Budgeting Apps That Help You Save Money and Earn Free Gift Cards

Let’s be honest: sticking to a budget takes work. But with the right tools, you can stretch your dollars a little further — and even earn free stuff while you’re at it. Whether you’re trying to save on everyday essentials or just love scoring gift cards, these seven budget-boosting apps can help you do more with less. Consider them your secret weapons for smarter shopping.

1. Shopkick: Your Go-To Rewards App

Let’s start with the MVP. Shopkick turns your everyday shopping routine into a scavenger hunt for kicks (our version of points). Earn kicks when you:

  • Walk into partner stores like Walmart, Target, and Walgreens

  • Scan product barcodes (no purchase required!)

  • Upload receipts from featured items

  • Shop online through the app

  • Link your accounts for seamless, automatic rewards

Once you’ve earned enough kicks, trade them in for free gift cards to your favorite stores. It’s easy, rewarding, and even a little addictive in the best way.

2. Your Favorite Store App

Apps from retailers like Walmart, Target, and Walgreens often feature built-in coupons, reward tracking, and weekly deals. Use them alongside Shopkick to double down on savings — check prices, clip offers, and then scan your receipt with Shopkick to earn even more.

3. Receipt Scanning Tools

There are several apps out there that reward you just for uploading receipts. While we won’t name names, combining Shopkick with a receipt-based rebate app can help you layer in extra savings for the exact same shopping trip.

4. Cash-Back Portals

If you’re a frequent online shopper, browser extensions and apps that give cash back for purchases can pair nicely with Shopkick’s online offers. Shop through Shopkick first to earn kicks, and you may be able to stack rewards if your favorite retailer supports both.

5. Fuel & Dining Rewards Apps

Some apps specialize in gas stations, restaurants, or local offers. These can be a smart complement if you’re using Shopkick for grocery or retail runs. Together, you can cover more of your monthly expenses with rewards.

6. Sample & Freebie Aggregators

A few apps and websites offer access to limited-time samples, sweepstakes, or promo codes. They can be a fun way to discover new brands, especially when combined with Shopkick’s featured item scans or product browsing rewards.

7. Your Loyalty Programs

Don’t forget to link or scan loyalty programs at stores where you shop regularly. While these aren’t standalone apps, combining store loyalty perks with Shopkick rewards is a great way to save even more without doing extra work.

The Bottom Line: Start with Shopkick

With so many ways to earn, Shopkick makes it easy (and fun!) to get rewarded for shopping the way you already do. And because you can layer it with other apps and store offers, it’s the perfect foundation for building your own personalized savings strategy.

Download Shopkick today to start earning kicks toward free gift cards — and join a community of savvy shoppers who make every trip count.

Follow us on Instagram and Facebook for daily shopping inspiration, user tips, and surprise bonus kicks.

Reward Sites That Actually Work

One of my girlfriends, Janette, is the best at giving it to you straight. She’s proudly no-nonsense, all honesty, and the first to tell you what you need to hear — even if you don’t want to hear it. She’s been my go-to since college for everything from shade-matching foundation to calling out red flags in my love life. (She actually knew my husband was The One before I did.)

So when another one of our girlfriends asked us at brunch for tips on making a little extra money, Janette and I jumped in. “Honestly?” I said. “I use reward apps. And yes — these reward sites actually work.”

I started walking them through my favorites. Some reward you for shopping. Some for scanning items in-store. Others for giving your opinion through surveys. But the best part? All of them are free and totally legit. And you better believe I waited to see if my picks passed the ultimate barometer: The Janette Test. That’s right. Every recommendation here is officially Janette-approved.

The Good: For Sharing Your Opinion

Survey Junkie

Survey Junkie is a great entry-level rewards site. You take surveys and earn points based on your demographic profile. Most surveys pay between 20–200 points, and once you hit 1,000 points (about $10), you can cash out via PayPal or gift cards.

You’re not going to get rich, and surveys can dry up—but if you enjoy giving feedback on brands and have a few minutes to spare, it’s a no-brainer.

Janette Test Says: “Not bad. I could probably stick with it for a bit, but I’d forget about it once the surveys slow down. Still, it’s solid.”

Use it if: You like expressing your opinion and don’t mind a little waiting between opportunities.

The Better: For Background Entertainment

InboxDollars

InboxDollars expands beyond surveys into watching videos, browsing the web, and playing games. You earn real cash (not gift cards), but you’ll need at least $30 to cash out.

That said, if you’re already scrolling or watching random clips during downtime, why not make a little money doing it?

Janette Test Says: “The payout threshold is kind of high, but I love that you can earn while multitasking. I’d put this one above the first.”

Use it if: You enjoy passive rewards while chilling on the couch.

The Best: For Everyday Shopping

Shopkick

This is the one that passed the Janette Test with flying colors. Shopkick is a shopping rewards app that turns your regular store runs into a fun, rewarding experience. You earn points (called “kicks”) for walking into stores, scanning product barcodes, and making purchases. You can even earn kicks online by watching videos or browsing offers.

Once you’ve racked up enough kicks, you can redeem them for gift cards to stores like Target, Walmart, Ulta Beauty, and more.

Why Janette loved it: No extra effort. No surveys to complete or videos to watch. You just shop like you normally would and earn along the way.

Janette Test Says: “Now this is something I’d actually use. It makes errands more fun, and it doesn’t feel like work. Obsessed.”

Use it if: You love the idea of a real-life shopping scavenger hunt and want to earn rewards without changing your routine.

Final Thoughts

Let’s face it—there are a lot of sketchy reward apps out there. But these three? They actually work. And more importantly, they passed the Janette Test.

Of all the reward sites I’ve tried, Shopkick is the one I keep coming back to. It’s the easiest to use, the most fun, and the one that fits seamlessly into my day. Whether you’re running errands, picking up groceries, or just window shopping, you’ll rack up rewards in no time.

Download Shopkick today and join a community of smart shoppers who’ve already discovered the fun in earning rewards just for living their life. Trust me—and Janette—you won’t regret it.

P.S. If you love shopping content and a little inspo on the side, follow Shopkick on Facebook and Instagram for daily tips and deals.

3 Easy Ways to Earn Cash Back Just by Saving Receipts

Let’s be real — grocery trips, Target runs, and spontaneous snack stops can add up fast. But what if those paper receipts you usually toss could actually earn you something back?

With just a few taps and a couple of easy habits, you can start turning everyday purchases into points, gift cards, or even real cash. Here’s how to make it happen.

1. Snap Your Receipts, Earn Rewards

The first rule of rewards? Save your receipts. It might sound simple, but forming this habit is the key to consistent earnings.

Plenty of top-rated apps — including Shopkick — reward users for uploading receipts from everyday purchases. All you have to do is take a quick photo after you shop and submit it through the app. The process takes seconds, and your kicks (aka points) start rolling in.

Pro tip: Snap your receipt right after you get in the car or finish unpacking. That way, it doesn’t end up lost, crumpled, or tossed in the trash.

2. Refer a Friend, Multiply the Fun

Shopping is more fun with friends — and rewards apps agree. Most receipt-saving apps offer referral bonuses when you invite others to join.

With Shopkick, you’ll earn bonus kicks when your friends sign up and start earning too. Sharing tips (like which items have the best kick offers or which stores offer walk-in rewards) also keeps you motivated — and helps both of you earn faster.

3. Choose the Right Cash-Back App

Not all cash-back apps are created equal. Some focus only on grocery rebates or surveys. Others — like Shopkick — offer multiple, low-effort ways to earn.

Here’s why Shopkick is a fan favorite:

  • Earn kicks just for walking into select stores

  • Scan product barcodes in the aisle — no purchase required

  • Upload receipts for bonus kicks

  • Shop online through the app for more rewards

  • Redeem kicks for gift cards to Target, Amazon, Starbucks, and more

You can even stack Shopkick with other tools, like store loyalty programs or traditional rebate apps, to maximize your savings.

Your Next Grocery Trip = Free Gift Cards

Turning receipts into rewards doesn’t have to feel like a chore. With the right app and a few smart habits, you’ll start seeing real results fast.

Download Shopkick today to get started — and join a growing community of savvy shoppers who make every trip count.

Follow us on Instagram and Facebook for daily savings tips, bonus kick alerts, and even more ways to stretch your budget.

How to Make Money While Shopping With Friends (Without Ruining the Fun)

Shopping with friends is already a great way to bond — but what if you could make money while doing it? Good news: you can. And the best part? It doesn’t have to take the fun out of your favorite pastime.

Whether you’re running errands or enjoying a day at the mall, these three tried-and-true methods can help you turn shopping into a rewarding experience — literally.

1. Become a Mystery Shopper

Mystery shopping is a long-standing way to earn extra cash while doing what you already love. As a mystery shopper, you’ll visit specific stores and evaluate everything from customer service to cleanliness, then report your experience in exchange for payment.

You can find gigs on mystery shopping websites or apps, though they vary by location and store. Some may require more detailed feedback, while others are short and simple. The trade-off? You might not always get to visit your favorite retailers. But if you enjoy writing reviews and observing details, it’s worth exploring.

2. Shop for Others

Apps like Instacart and Shipt make it easy to earn money by shopping for people who can’t (or don’t want to) do it themselves. As a shopper, you’ll receive orders, pick up groceries or essentials, and deliver them to the customer’s doorstep.

Want to make it social? Team up with a friend and tackle orders together — it’s a great way to spend time while making money. Just be prepared for a little hustle, especially during busy times.

3. Use Shopkick to Earn Rewards With Every Trip

Looking for the easiest way to earn while you shop — with zero extra work? That’s where Shopkick comes in.

With the Shopkick app, you can earn points (called kicks) for everyday actions like:

  • Walking into stores

  • Scanning product barcodes

  • Making purchases and submitting receipts

  • Shopping online through the app

You can then redeem your kicks for free gift cards to places like Target, Walmart, Amazon, Starbucks, and more. No need to take on a side gig — just keep doing what you already do, and let the rewards roll in.

And yes, it’s even more fun with friends. Compare kick counts, swap scanning tips, or turn your next trip into a scavenger hunt to see who can earn the most!

Make Every Shopping Trip Count

Whether you’re mystery shopping, running errands for others, or simply scanning barcodes at your favorite store, there are so many ways to earn while spending time with friends.

The easiest place to start? Download Shopkick for free and start earning kicks today — no special gig required.