How to Make Grocery Shopping Fun for Kids

Let’s be honest: grocery shopping with kids doesn’t always sound like a good time — but it can be. Growing up, my parents made grocery trips feel like an adventure. From helping with the list to pushing the cart, I felt like part of the process — and I actually looked forward to it! 

If you want to make grocery shopping a little more fun (and a lot less stressful), here are five simple ways to get your kids involved and entertained. 

1. Plan Meals Together

Invite your kids to help plan meals for the week while you’re making your grocery list. Even picky eaters get excited when they’ve had a say in what’s for dinner. Plus, when everyone’s on board with the plan, there’s less begging for extras in the store. 

2. Turn It Into a Scavenger Hunt

Turn shopping into a game! Use the Shopkick app to find products to scan for kicks (our version of points). Kids love the hunt, and you’ll earn rewards toward free gift cards while they help track down items. 

3. Use a Kid-Sized Cart

If your store has mini shopping carts, take advantage! Little ones love having their own cart to push and fill — it gives them a job and keeps them engaged. Perfect for short trips or light shopping days. 

4. Watch & Earn

Shopkick videos are another fun way to keep kids busy while you shop. After scanning items, check for videos to watch right in the app for bonus kicks. They can also explore the Discover Tab to watch and earn from the cart. 

5. Make It One-on-One Time

Grocery shopping can double as quality time. Turn it into a mini “date” with one child at a time. It’s a great way to connect, chat, and knock out an errand together — without distractions. 

Got your own kid-friendly shopping tips? Share them with us on Facebook or Instagram (@shopkick)! And if you haven’t already, download Shopkick to start earning rewards today. 

Shop for Groceries Online and Save with Walmart Grocery

Do you love grocery shopping? Sometimes, it’s fun to stroll the aisles and discover new finds. But let’s be honest — on a busy day or when life’s throwing more exciting plans your way, grocery shopping can feel like a chore. That’s where Walmart Grocery comes in. Whether you choose pickup or delivery, it’s designed to save you time, help you stick to your budget, and keep your pantry stocked — without the hassle. And when you pair Walmart with Shopkick, you can make your grocery trips even more rewarding.

 

Why Walmart Grocery is Convenient

Shopping online with Walmart Grocery is designed to make your life easier — seriously, it couldn’t be more convenient! Whether you’re restocking pantry staples or hunting for seasonal must-haves, you can shop by department, event (hello, back-to-school!), or even specific items. Got go-to products you buy regularly? Add them to your favorites list so they’re ready to pop into your cart in seconds. This little feature saves so much time, you’ll wonder how you ever shopped without it!
The streamlined design of Walmart Grocery keeps everything at your fingertips. See something you need? Add it to your cart with just a click or two. It’s grocery shopping made simple, quick, and stress-free — exactly how it should be.

Delivery and Pickup Options

Walmart Grocery knows life gets busy, which is why they offer flexible options to fit your schedule. If you’re in an area where delivery is available, your groceries will be brought straight to your doorstep. But if delivery isn’t an option near you, don’t worry — Walmart’s pickup service has you covered.

 

Here’s how it works: place your order online, then drive to the store when it’s ready. Park in one of the designated Walmart Grocery pickup spots, and their team will bring your order out to your car. No lines, no lugging heavy bags around, just quick and easy service!

 

Budget-Friendly Shopping Online

We’ve all been there — walking into the store with a list and walking out with a cart full of things we didn’t plan on buying. Those impulse purchases can seriously add up. Shopping online with Walmart Grocery? Total game-changer for your budget!

 

By shopping online, you can focus on just the items you actually need, without the temptation of in-store distractions (looking at you, snacks and seasonal décor). Plus, seeing your total as you shop helps you stay on track financially. It’s a great way to plan meals, stick to your list, and save money — all from the comfort of your couch.

 

Variety and Bulk Shopping

Whatever you need, Walmart Grocery has you covered! From everyday essentials to specialty items, their selection is massive. You can easily shop for back-to-school supplies, baby products, pet essentials, and even toys or sports gear. And if you love buying in bulk, Walmart’s Stock Up section is a must-visit — it’s packed with the products you use most, offered in larger quantities for even greater convenience and savings.

 

The variety is endless, and it’s all available in one place. Whether you’re preparing for a busy school week, restocking the pantry, or getting your home ready for guests, Walmart Grocery makes it easy to check every box.

Earning Kicks with Walmart + Shopkick

While Walmart’s old Savings Catcher program is gone, you can still earn rewards with Shopkick when shopping online at Walmart.com through the Shopkick app. Simply:

 

  1. Open Shopkick and navigate to Walmart.com from within the app to see current kick offers
  2. Complete your purchase as usual to earn kicks toward free gift cards
  3. For in-store purchases, link your Walmart account for eReceipts to earn automatically on qualifying buys

 

This way, you’re not just saving time — you’re working toward rewards you can use for everything from your next grocery run to a little personal splurge.

 

Ready to simplify your grocery shopping? Try Walmart Grocery for delivery or pickup, and pair it with Shopkick to make every trip more rewarding.

Top 5 Apps to Use While Shopping in Stores

I have a question that’s often met with a great debate: Do you like shopping in stores in person, or do you prefer shopping online? I am not a stranger to the joys and pure convenience of shopping online. After all, nearly everything we need is at our fingertips without a closing time. However, I find it’s enjoyable, and often eye-opening, to shop in stores. 

 

My allegiance to shopping in stores may be due to the fact that I truly love any excuse for an outing – I typically catch up on podcasts or audiobooks while I drive, and I often join with friends to shop together. Plus, I almost always discover something in stores that I would have scrolled past online, especially if I’m searching for a new piece to add to my closet.

 

In the past, the point that may have encouraged me to shop online rather than in stores was the ability to save money by using apps. But, I have discovered great options that completely justify my in-store allegiance and create the same type of seamless experience. Whether you’re running to Target, shopping for clothes, or purchasing your weekly groceries, I like to think of these apps as the top five best apps to use while shopping in stores. Here’s the rundown:

 

1. Target:

The Target Circle app has been my trusted companion for years, streamlining my shopping experience. Once known as Cartwheel, it’s evolved into a multifunctional tool that allows me to browse weekly ads, spot discounts on my must-have products, and confirm store inventory — all in one place. This convenience, paired with the 5% savings I get using my Target card, has made the app an indispensable resource for smarter shopping and better budgeting.

 

2. Shopkick:

Since finding Shopkick last year, it’s become my go-to app for earning rewards while I shop! Shopkick lets me collect “kicks” in-store or online, and my favorite feature is earning kicks for simply walking into a store. Walk-in points are awarded near the entrance, so I always have my app ready. As I browse stores like Target, Walmart, or CVS, I scan eligible products listed in the app to gather even more kicks. To maximize my rewards, I also upload receipts for purchased items I’ve scanned!

 

3. Rakuten Rewards:

After reading about Rakuten Rewards on my favorite blog, it quickly became my go-to for online shopping. The plugin effortlessly notifies me of cash-back opportunities on partner sites, making saving money completely hassle-free. To top it off, I discovered that Rakuten offers cash back for in-store purchases, too!

 

Within the app’s ‘In-Store’ section at the bottom, you can explore a variety of participating brands. Just link your credit card, and you’ll start earning cash back on qualifying purchases at their partnered retailers. It’s an easy, hands-off way to save money. Keep in mind, though, that your cash back is distributed quarterly in the form of a “Big Check,” so it’s not instant gratification. Even so, the simplicity of earning cash back both online and in-store makes it an invaluable tool for any savvy shopper.

 

4. Fetch:

I do my weekly shopping at a family-owned grocery store that isn’t recognized by most mainstream apps. They’re completely off the grid! That’s why Fetch is my go-to solution.

Fetch lets you earn rewards at any grocery store by shopping for products from over 250 brands, such as Breyers, Campbell’s, and Kraft. All you need to do is upload your receipt to the app, which automatically detects which purchases qualify for points. The only downside is that points are restricted to certain products from partnered brands.

 

5. RetailMeNot:

RetailMeNot is a one-stop solution for anyone looking to save money without the hassle of traditional couponing. I frequently use the app at stores like The Gap, Pier 1, and Staples. Although it also offers cash-back features, I find its digital coupon options the most useful.

Imagine this: you toss out a coupon mailer, assuming you won’t need it, only to realize later that you do. RetailMeNot eliminates this problem by letting you access those same deals directly on your phone. No more paper clutter or missed savings! Whether you’ve thrown a coupon away or simply forgot to bring one, the app ensures you always have discounts at your fingertips. It’s a seamless, efficient way to save money without carrying a stack of coupons. RetailMeNot turns saving into a stress-free experience, making it an indispensable tool for shoppers everywhere.

 

Does shopping in stores sound appealing? Which apps do you prefer for cutting costs? (We recommend starting with Shopkick.) Smart tip: Pairing multiple apps is a clever way to save even more during your shopping adventures!

Three Ways Shopkick Can Replace Walmart Savings Catcher

The older I get, the more I cherish the moments I spend with my girlfriends. Whether we’re navigating city life, adjusting to the suburbs, or juggling unique life stages, our bond remains strong. When we get together, conversations flow naturally — from career ambitions to personal passions, family life, and, of course, clever ways to save money.

 

On one recent evening, our discussion turned to shopping. We swapped stories about our favorite stores, and Walmart quickly became the unanimous favorite. This naturally segued into a conversation about Walmart’s decision to end its Savings Catcher program — a move that disappointed many of us.

 

For years, Savings Catcher had been a reliable way to save. Some of my friends had accumulated hundreds of dollars by submitting receipts and receiving price-match refunds. These savings were used for everything from vacations to holiday gifts, making the program’s end all the more disheartening.

 

I shared three easy ways my friends could start using Shopkick, and now I’m eager to share them with you. If you’re looking for an app that makes saving fun and straightforward, this could be your next favorite tool!

 

1. Earn Kicks Without Making Purchases:

Why limit savings to price comparisons? With Shopkick, earning rewards is effortless. Open the app as you walk into a store, and kicks are yours. Browse and scan items (Walmart included) or explore videos and lookbooks at home to continue earning. While purchases fast-track gift cards, Shopkick makes saving possible even when you’re not spending. Every step, scan, or tap brings you closer to rewards. Discover a simpler, more rewarding way to save.

 

2. Convenience Meets Shopping Everywhere:

Savings Catcher was limited to Walmart’s website and stores, giving you few opportunities to save elsewhere. In contrast, Shopkick allows you to earn kicks at a range of retailers, both online and in-store. Some stores let you collect kicks by walking in, scanning items, or submitting receipts, while others reward purchases made with a credit card linked to your Shopkick account. Unlike Savings Catcher, which required price comparisons, Shopkick offers effortless savings at numerous retailers you already shop at, making it a more practical and flexible option.

 

3. Unlock Gift Cards with Kicks:

My friends were frustrated about losing one of their favorite savings strategies, so I told them about Shopkick. It’s simple: collect kicks and turn them into rewards. In fact, with only 1250 kicks — which I’ve earned during one busy day — you can get a gift card for Starbucks, Walmart, Target, Amazon, and more. Whether you use these cards to enjoy a treat, budget for a vacation, or grab holiday gifts, Shopkick offers diverse ways to earn and save. Unlike Savings Catcher, it keeps things exciting and versatile for smart shopping.

 

My group of friends joined Shopkick during a fun night together, and I saw how easy it was to get started. Savings Catcher users, transition to Shopkick today and save money while earning rewards like gift cards for your purchases!

5 Benefits of Shopping with QVC

I’ll admit it I’m a shopaholic. Every time autumn rolls around, I feel the irresistible urge to refresh my wardrobe, makeup, and home décor. There’s something magical about entering a new season (and a new year) with a fresh style that reflects the best version of myself. 

 

One of my favorite places to shop during this seasonal transformation? QVC. You’ve probably heard of it maybe even seen your mom or grandma shopping via TV remote— but QVC has evolved in a big way. They now cater to younger generations with an amazing online shopping experience, and I’m obsessed. 

 

Here are 5 reasons why QVC is my fall shopping favorite and why I always use Shopkick to earn rewards while I shop: 

 

1. Live Product Demos 

QVC’s live streams are a game-changer. Whether on TV, their website, or YouTube, you can watch real-time demos of products from a host twirling in a cashmere sweater to a model applying foundation. It’s the perfect way to see how items look and perform before you buy. 

 

2. Incredible Selection

From fashion and beauty to tech and home goods, QVC has it all. Their inventory is updated daily, so you’re always discovering something new — whether it’s a must-have item or a surprise find you didn’t know you needed. 

 

3. Quality & Designer Brands 

QVC is known for carrying top-tier brands like Vince Camuto, Josie Maran, and Dooney & Bourke. Whether I’m shopping for a new handbag, shoes, or even a vacuum, I know I’m getting high-quality products that last. 

 

4. Flex Pay Options 

Big purchases don’t have to be stressful. QVC’s Flex Pay lets you split payments into smaller, manageable chunks. For example, instead of paying $1,000 upfront for a new MacBook Air, you can pay in six installments of $168. It’s budget-friendly and super convenient. 

 

5. Daily Deals 

Every day, QVC features “Today’s Special Value” limited-time deals on popular products like insulated totes, Amazon tablets, and cozy home décor. I always check these first for amazing discounts on items I love. 

 

Shopkick + QVC = Major Savings 

Since 1986, QVC has been a trusted source for quality, value, and convenience. And now, thanks to Shopkick, you can earn kicks for every $1 spent when you shop QVC through the app. That means free gift cards just for buying the things you already love! 

 

Ready to Shop Smarter This Fall? 

Download Shopkick today and start earning rewards while you shop QVC and other favorite retailers. Join a community of savvy shoppers who know how to save while staying stylish. 

Follow us on Facebook and Instagram (@shopkick) for daily shopping inspiration and tips! 

The Ultimate List of Free Apps That Give You Gift Cards

My daughter has been business-minded since birth. This summer, her lemonade stand morphed into an apple cider shack — and she’s already talking about opening a hot cocoa counter by December. She takes her work so seriously that we even got her a smartphone so she could accept debit card payments through an app.

 

So, when her third-grade class was assigned to come up with an invention to help the world, it was no surprise she dreamed up a money-making idea: an app that could pay her for doing chores like washing dishes or sorting laundry. While we didn’t bite on the “paid chores” pitch, she did spark a thought — what if there were apps that paid us for simple tasks?

 

Turns out, there are plenty. These apps reward you with points, cashback, or credits you can redeem for free gift cards — just for doing everyday things you’re already doing. Here’s my ultimate list of free apps that can help you turn your phone into a gift card machine.

 

1. Shopkick (my personal favorite!)

Best for: Turning shopping into a rewarding scavenger hunt

 

Shopkick makes every shopping trip more fun by giving you “kicks” (points) for things like:
  • Walking into stores
  • Scanning barcodes on select products
  • Shopping online through the app
  • Watching short videos
  • Linking your Target, Walmart, or Sam’s Club account for eReceipts so qualifying purchases earn kicks automatically

 

Once you’ve earned enough kicks, redeem them for gift cards to Target, Walmart, Amazon, Starbucks, and dozens more retailers.
Pro tip: Pair Shopkick with another cashback app to double up on rewards
Cash-out minimum: $5 gift card

2. Rakuten (formerly Ebates)

Best for: Earning cashback online and in-store

 

Rakuten rewards you with cashback when you shop through its website or app at thousands of partner stores. You can also earn in-store cashback by adding offers to your linked card. Payments are sent quarterly via PayPal or check — what Rakuten calls the “Big Fat Check.”

 

Cash-out minimum: $5

 

3. Fetch

Best for: Grocery and everyday shopping rewards

 

With Fetch, you earn points by scanning receipts from any store — big-box, grocery, clothing, even gas stations. The app automatically detects eligible products from 500+ partner brands and awards points you can redeem for gift cards.

 

Cash-out minimum: 3,000 points ($3 gift card)

 

4. Swagbucks

Best for: Earning in multiple ways beyond shopping

 

Swagbucks gives you points (SB) for answering surveys, shopping online, playing games, and even using its search engine. You can redeem SB for gift cards to Amazon, Target, Walmart, and more.

 

Cash-out minimum: 300 SB ($3 gift card)

 

5. Field Agent

Best for: Quick “mystery shopper” style tasks

 

Field Agent pays you to complete small jobs — like checking product displays, taking store photos, or answering short surveys at local retailers. Tasks usually take 10–15 minutes and pay between $3 and $12. Earnings can be cashed out via direct deposit or gift cards.

 

Cash-out minimum: $3

 

Why I Love These Apps

The beauty of these apps is that they fit into my everyday life — I’m already grocery shopping, browsing Target, and making online purchases. Now, I just get rewarded for it.

 

Since downloading Shopkick, I’ve cashed in for multiple Starbucks cards, my husband grabbed a Best Buy gift card, and we even have enough kicks saved to surprise my daughter with a Target gift card for her birthday.

 

Ready to start earning? Download Shopkick today, link your accounts for eReceipts, and join millions of “Shopkickers” who turn everyday shopping into free gift cards — no extra spending required.

Free apps to earn money for Amazon gift cards while you shop

Let’s face it: shopping is a constant in all our lives. Whether you’re picking up groceries or indulging in a little retail therapy, the reality is that the expenses add up. That’s where Amazon’s subscription services come in — a true lifesaver for anyone juggling busy schedules and household needs. They take the hassle out of remembering to restock essentials like paper towels or coffee pods by delivering them to your doorstep like clockwork.

 

But what if you could go a step further and make your shopping smarter, more rewarding, and even cost-effective? That’s where free apps that help you earn Amazon gift cards come into play. By integrating these innovative tools into your routine, you can save money and make your subscription orders practically free. Shopping smarter has never been easier — or more fun.

 

Top apps to grab Amazon gift cards

One of the most reliable ways to rack up Amazon gift cards is by using cashback apps. Instead of chasing coupons or hunting for sales, these platforms do the heavy lifting for you. TopCashback is one standout worth highlighting.

 

TopCashback partners with thousands of retailers and passes back nearly all of its affiliate commission to users. That means you often earn higher cashback percentages than you would with competitors. After your purchase track, your earnings can be withdrawn via PayPal or redeemed for gift cards — including Amazon. From holiday shopping to everyday essentials, TopCashback ensures your spending goes further.

 

Looking for variety? Other apps like Mobee and Shopkick add their own twist to the reward-earning experience.

 

Useful apps to claim Amazon gift cards

Mystery shopping has come a long way from the secretive visits of the past. Today, apps like Mobee allow you to step into the role of a mystery shopper with ease, turning your regular store visits into rewarding missions. The process is simple: download the app, complete tasks like reviewing service or scanning items, and report your findings. The result? Points you can redeem for gift cards.

Mobee is a top pick in this category, thanks to its seamless process and quick turnaround. Points earned can be cashed in for rewards in as little as 24 hours. Whether you’re out picking up groceries or checking out new stores, Mobee lets you make money for everyday tasks. And yes, Amazon gift cards are just a few clicks away.

Want to explore further? Gigwalk and Zapiddy also offer mystery shopper-style tasks, allowing you to earn rewards while providing insights to brands. The best part? These apps reward you for simply being a savvy shopper.

Unlock an app designed to help you earn Amazon gift cards

If you’re looking for an all-in-one shopping companion, Shopkick is the app that sets the standard. It’s not just a rewards platform — it’s an interactive shopping experience that makes every trip feel like an adventure. Shopkick rewards you for nearly every step of the process: walking into stores, scanning product barcodes, exploring new brands, and, of course, making purchases.

 

What makes Shopkick truly exceptional is how user-friendly and versatile it is. Whether you’re running errands, stocking up on groceries, or window shopping, Shopkick turns your time into valuable points, or kicks, as they’re called. Once you’ve accumulated enough kicks, you can trade them in for Amazon gift cards, making your subscription deliveries more affordable than ever. It’s efficient, engaging, and downright fun —a true standout among rewards apps.

 

Reward yourself while you shop

To make the most of these apps, consistency is key. Check in regularly to stay updated on new tasks, promotions, or features. Apps like TopCashback, Mobee, and Shopkick reward frequent interaction, so don’t let opportunities slip through the cracks.

 

Dive into every feature the app offers. For example, with Shopkick, don’t just earn kicks for purchases — make sure to scan products and walk into participating stores. On Mobee, complete missions at stores you already frequent to double up on productivity and rewards. And with TopCashback, look for seasonal bonuses to maximize your earnings on big shopping events.

 

Lastly, set reminders for yourself to redeem points and cash out rewards. Let those Amazon gift cards work for you — whether it’s stocking up on household staples or treating yourself to something special.

 

Final Thoughts

Why wait to start earning rewards for your shopping? Download Shopkick today and join a vibrant community of savvy shoppers who are turning everyday purchases into valuable perks. Shopkick’s intuitive interface and engaging features will make you rethink how you approach every trip to the store.

 

Looking for even more inspiration? Follow Shopkick on Facebook and Instagram (@shopkick) for daily tips, deals, and updates. There’s no better time to kick-start your journey to earning free Amazon gift cards while making shopping more rewarding than ever!

Redeem points for cash to fund your next shopping spree

Remember dreaming about running through Toys R Us with a cart and no spending limit? Or shopping on Rodeo Drive, Hollywood-style? Or maybe you still daydream about winning Supermarket Sweep. Same. My shopping fantasies have evolved over time — but now, they’re a little more grounded… and a lot more achievable. 

 

These days, I’ve discovered a real way to fund shopping sprees — by earning points and redeeming them for gift cards or even cash. And yes, it’s as fun as it sounds. 

 

Let me walk you through three ways to turn everyday actions into real rewards (and maybe a little budget-friendly indulgence).

 

Survey Apps: The Classic Entry Point

Let’s start with the simplest (and honestly, most tedious) option: surveys. These apps reward you with points for sharing your opinion. You’ll answer questions, rack up points, and redeem them for gift cards or cash. Not the most exciting, but hey — it works. 

 

📱 Try: Swagbucks, InboxDollars, or Survey Junkie 

 

Couponing Apps: Digital Deals, Real Savings

Couponing apps are like modern-day scissors-free clipping. Some apps reward you for buying select products and uploading receipts; others give you discounts instantly at checkout. 

 

Both styles help you save and stretch your budget — freeing up more cash for your next shopping spree. 

 

📱 Try: Ibotta, Fetch Rewards 

 

Shopkick: Your Shopping Spree Sidekick

Now for my favorite: Shopkick. This free app lets you earn kicks (points) for simple tasks you already do — like walking into stores, scanning items, and making purchases. Then you redeem those kicks for gift cards to your favorite stores (Target, Amazon, Sephora, and more). 

 

You can also earn kicks without leaving home by: 

  • Visiting online stores 
  • Watching videos 
  • Browsing product pages 
  • Shopping on your phone 

 

Shopkick even sends surprise kicks just for opening the app. It’s fun, it’s easy, and it’s become a staple in my weekly routine. Honestly, I can’t remember the last time I shopped without it. 

 

Shopping Sprees > Shopping Dreams 

I used to fantasize about free-for-alls at toy stores. Now I fund real shopping sprees with kicks from Shopkick—and it feels just as good (okay, almost as good). Whether I’m buying groceries, gifts, or a well-earned treat, Shopkick helps me stretch my budget in the best way possible. 

 

Ready to earn while you shop? 

Download the Shopkick app and start collecting kicks today. Your next shopping spree is closer than you think. 

And if you love shopping and scrolling, follow us on Facebook and Instagram (@shopkick) for daily tips, rewards inspo, and fun from the Shopkick community. 

3 ways to make money from home on your phone

Confession: I’m a homebody. Give me cozy pajamas, a full fridge, and my couch, and I’m perfectly content. Sure, I love the occasional brunch or happy hour, but nothing beats being home. That’s why I’m always on the lookout for easy ways to earn a little extra cash without leaving the house — and yes, it’s totally possible. 

 

Here are three simple ways to make money from home, straight from your phone. 

 

1. Take Surveys for Cash

It’s not the most exciting option, but survey apps do work. Just download one, fill in your profile, and start answering questions. The payout per survey isn’t huge, but it adds up — and you can do it all while binge-watching your favorite show.

 

Popular survey apps include InboxDollars, Swagbucks, and Toluna. 

 

2. Watch Videos and Earn Rewards

Yes, really. Apps like Fronto or Swagbucks let you earn points just for watching videos, reading articles, or checking out product deals. You trade those points for PayPal cash, gift cards, or coupons. It’s super low-effort and easy to do from the couch. 

 

3. Use Shopkick (My Favorite Way!)

If you’re looking for the most fun and flexible way to earn, Shopkick is where it’s at. You can earn “kicks” (Shopkick points) in-store and from home. 

 

From home, you can: 

  • Watch short videos 
  • Discover new products 
  • Shop online at top stores like Amazon, Walmart, and eBay 
  • Join app-based scavenger hunts for surprise kicks 

 

All those kicks can be redeemed for gift cards to your favorite stores — Target, Starbucks, Ulta, you name it. 

 

Plus, Shopkick has an awesome online community. I’ve picked up shopping tips, shared laughs in the Facebook group, and felt right at home with other savvy users. 

 

Ready to earn from the couch?

Download the free Shopkick app and start earning rewards today — no leaving the house required. 

How to get paid to play games: Money-making apps for techies

I’ve been a gamer since the NES days (yes, the original). I’ve played everything from Super Nintendo to PlayStation to today’s high-powered consoles. But lately, I’ve found a new kind of game one that actually pays me. 

 

It’s not your typical joystick-and-controller deal. These are money-making apps that turn everyday shopping into a game and if you’re a techie like me, they’re dangerously addictive. 

 

Level Up Your Shopping Game 

The best “get paid to play” apps reward you for things you’re doing anyway walking into a store, browsing products, making purchases. Think treasure hunt meets retail therapy: 

 

  • Walk into a store: Earn points instantly
  • Scan products: Rack up more  
  • Upload receipts: Keep the streak alive 
  • Cash in for gift cards: Amazon, Target, Starbucks take your pick 

 

Even better? You can score points online, too shop through the app, view select products, watch videos, and watch your rewards climb. 

 

Why Shopkick Wins 

Out of all the shopping apps I’ve tried, Shopkick is my top pick. It’s packed with ways to earn —both in-store and online— and the kicks add up fast. Bonus: Shopkick’s social media is hilarious, so it feels more like being part of a gamer guild than just using an app. 

 

Whether I’m grabbing coffee, stocking up on tech at Best Buy, or snagging something from Amazon, Shopkick makes it feel like unlocking a new achievement every time. And the reward? Gift cards I can spend on my next gaming splurge. 

 

Ready to play IRL? Download Shopkick free, start earning, and join a community of kickers who know shopping can be just as fun as gaming. 

Dollar store coupon apps: Is it possible to save even more?

Parenting changes everything. From the moment your little ones arrive, life becomes a whirlwind of surprises, adjustments, and moments of pure joy. While some changes are predictable —like sleepless nights or the endless stream of school lunches— others can take you completely by surprise. For my husband and me, one of the most unexpected changes was our approach to shopping. With three growing boys at home, we had to rethink where and how we shopped, prioritizing savings without sacrificing quality.

 

Enter dollar stores. They quickly became a staple in our lives for all those everyday items, from snacks to school supplies, that our kids constantly need. But the savings didn’t stop there. I discovered a game-changing tool that took our budget-stretching efforts to the next level: dollar store coupon apps. If you’re a parent, a savvy shopper, or just someone who loves a great deal, this is a must-have addition to your shopping routine. Ready to learn how to save more than you ever thought possible? Let’s dive in.

 

Dollar General App: Clip and Save Instantly

The Dollar General app is one of my favorite ways to save at dollar stores. Once you download it, you can browse weekly deals, clip digital coupons, and have them automatically applied at checkout when you enter your phone number. No more carrying around paper coupons or worrying about forgetting them at home — everything you need is right on your phone.

 

What I love most is how often Dollar General stacks store savings with manufacturer coupons, meaning you can double up on discounts. It’s a quick, effortless way to shave dollars off every shopping trip.

 

Family Dollar App: Weekly Deals at Your Fingertips

Another must-have is the Family Dollar app. It works very similarly to Dollar General’s — browse coupons, add them to your account, and redeem them in-store at checkout.

 

The app also gives you access to the weekly ad so you can plan your shopping trip before you even leave the house. For busy parents, this makes it easy to combine errands with savings without spending hours clipping coupons.

 

Coupons.com: Rebates That Work Almost Anywhere

Coupons.com has been around for years, but the app has evolved into a powerful rebate tool that still works at many dollar stores. Instead of printing paper coupons, you simply browse offers in the app, link your store loyalty card (when available), or snap a photo of your receipt after checkout.

 

Cash back is credited directly to your account, and once you reach the minimum payout, you can transfer the savings straight to PayPal. It’s one of the easiest ways to layer additional savings on top of already low prices at dollar stores.

 

Saving with Shopkick

Now, let’s talk about my personal favorite app: Shopkick. I’ve been using Shopkick for a while now, and I love how easy it is to earn rewards just by doing things I already do — like shopping.

 

Shopkick gives you points (called kicks) for completing activities such as:

  • Walking into partner stores (yes, you can earn just for entering!)
  • Scanning barcodes of featured products
  • Submitting receipts from purchases
  • Shopping online through the app or watching quick videos

 

Those kicks quickly turn into free gift cards for places like Amazon, Target, and Starbucks. For me, it feels like a fun little game — maximizing kicks while running errands. And trust me, the rewards add up faster than you’d expect.

 

Bottom Line

Between Dollar General, Family Dollar, Coupons.com, and Shopkick, there are plenty of ways to stretch your budget at dollar stores. Whether you’re clipping digital coupons, stacking cash back rebates, or earning rewards, these apps make saving money easy, fun, and totally worth it.

2 fun shopping apps that save money and rack up rewards

My boys don’t have extravagant tastes. Sure, they love video games and movies, but they also have a blast playing simple games like hide-and-seek or their favorite: capture the flag — which, in our house, is really capture the old t-shirt. One hides it, the others hunt it down, and the winner gets bragging rights. It’s free, fun, and keeps them entertained for hours. Total win-win! 

 

Watching them play got me thinking — why can’t saving money be just as fun for adults? Turns out, it can! With the right shopping apps, you can turn errands into mini adventures and rack up serious savings while you’re at it. 

 

Fun Shopping Apps That Save Money 

Here are two of my favorite apps that make shopping feel like a game — and help stretch your budget at the same time. 

 

Flipp 

Flipp is perfect for wish list lovers. Just add the items you’re hoping to buy, and Flipp shows you which stores have them at the best prices. It’s like having a personal deal-hunting assistant! 

 

Whether you’re eyeing clothes, electronics, or groceries, Flipp helps you snag them for less. I’ve saved a ton using this app — and it’s always exciting to see a wish list item pop up at a steal. 

 

Shopkick 

This one’s the most fun! Shopkick turns every shopping trip into a scavenger hunt for rewards. You earn points (called “kicks”) for: 

  • Walking into stores  
  • Scanning product barcodes  
  • Making purchases  
  • Watching videos  
  • Shopping online  
  • Finding surprise kicks in the app 

 

You can trade those kicks for free gift cards to your favorite stores. It’s seriously addictive — in the best way. If shopping ever felt like a chore, Shopkick flips the script and makes it something to look forward to. 

 

Double the Fun, Double the Savings 

Want to save even more? Use Flipp and Shopkick together! Flipp helps you find the best deals, and Shopkick rewards you for buying them. It’s a budget-friendly combo that makes shopping feel like a game — and who doesn’t love winning? 

 

As a mom of three imaginative boys, I’ve learned how to turn everyday moments into fun. These apps help me do the same with shopping — and they’ve become essential tools in my money-saving routine. 

 

Ready to Shop Smarter & Have More Fun? 

Download Shopkick today and start earning free gift cards while you shop. Join a community of savvy shoppers who’ve already discovered the joy of turning errands into adventures.