Category: blog

Let’s be honest: life moves fast these days, and nobody has time to sift through piles of Sunday paper ads or clip endless coupons like our moms used to. Back then, saving money while shopping meant hours of prep work. But today? Saving big is as easy as tapping a button on your phone, thanks to free shopping apps!

These nifty apps are total game-changers. Whether you’re shopping online or browsing the aisles of your favorite stores, they reward you for your everyday activities — like walking into stores, scanning barcodes, making purchases, or even watching short videos. The best part? Those rewards turn into gift cards or cash back that you can use for just about anything.

So, say hello to effortless savings and goodbye to those slow, old-school methods. Below, we’ve rounded up the top free shopping apps that will save you time and money — and they’re so easy to use, you’ll wonder how you ever lived without them. Let’s dive in!

Flipp:

Still one of the best ways to plan your shopping trips, Flipp puts weekly flyers, store ads, and digital coupons all in one place. Browse deals from hundreds of retailers, tap to add items to your shopping list, and even clip coupons directly in the app. Flipp integrates with loyalty programs at select stores, so you can apply discounts automatically at checkout no paper coupons required. Perfect for planning your grocery haul or spotting weekly steals fast.

RetailMeNot:

RetailMeNot continues to be a go-to for finding promo codes, digital coupons, and cashback offers. The app features personalized deal alerts based on your favorite stores and categories, plus cashback on both in-store and online purchases. You can browse trending offers, stack discounts with existing sales, and even earn rewards on takeout and delivery orders. It’s a reliable all-in-one savings hub that works wherever — and however — you shop.

Slickdeals:

Slickdeals remains the internet’s largest crowdsourced deal-sharing community, and, it’s even more customizable. Users post and vote on the best deals across categories like tech, groceries, home, and travel. You can set up deal alerts for specific products or brands so you’re notified the moment a price drops. With its active forums and verified front-page offers, Slickdeals is like having a team of bargain hunters working for you 24/7.

Shopkick:

Shopkick is still one of the most engaging rewards apps, but its features have evolved. You earn kicks (points) by walking into stores, scanning featured products, making purchases, and shopping online through the app. The big update? eReceipts — link your retailer accounts (like Walmart, Target, or Sam’s Club) and earn kicks automatically for qualifying purchases, no receipt upload needed. Redeem kicks for gift cards to your favorite stores, from Starbucks to Amazon, and turn every errand into a rewarding experience.

Best of all, I think I’ve actually combined Shopkick with most (if not all) of the other apps on this list — at least those that give you access to coupons. That’s because those coupons let you save at the register, while Shopkick gives you points as a reward after your purchase. It’s like a double whammy.

Download one of the best free shopping apps, Shopkick, today and join a community of loyal Shopkickers who’ve already discovered the rewards of shopping with a free, smartphone app sidekick.

Remember when apps were just a fun novelty — turning your phone into a flashlight or a digital beer glass at parties? Fast forward to today, and apps are more than just cool — they’re essential. And guess what? They can also make you money!

Yep, you read that right. With just a few taps, you can start earning cash, gift cards, or other rewards, simply by doing things you already love — like shopping, watching videos, or taking surveys. Let’s dive into the coolest money-making apps for your iPhone and see how easy (and fun!) it is to turn your downtime into payday!

Make Every Opinion Count: Survey Apps That Pay You

If you’ve ever thought, I have opinions, and they’re worth something, you’re absolutely right! Survey apps for iPhones are an easy way to earn cash by simply sharing your thoughts. Here’s how it works: you download an app, fill in some quick info about yourself, and voilà! You’ll start receiving surveys to complete. They can be about anything — your shopping habits, your favorite snacks, or even which superhero movie you liked best.

Most surveys take less than 10 minutes, and longer ones (which pay the most) rarely take over 20 minutes. On average, you can expect to earn about $1 per survey, and trust me, that adds up faster than you think. Bonus: you can do these surveys while watching TV, waiting in line, or whenever you have a few spare minutes. It’s like getting paid for your downtime. Sounds like a win to me!

Earn Cash While Watching the Ads You (Secretly) Love

Let’s be honest: sometimes the trailers and ads before your favorite videos are just as entertaining as the main event. Well, what if you got paid to watch them? That’s exactly what some apps offer! Here’s how it works: you open the app, watch a short 30-second ad or trailer, and earn a little cash or points for your time. The payouts average around $0.50 per ad, but it adds up quickly if you make it a habit.

The best part? Sometimes these ads and trailers are genuinely fun to watch — think sneak peeks of upcoming blockbuster movies or quirky product ads. It’s like getting rewarded for something you’d probably watch anyway. Grab some popcorn, sit back, and let the rewards roll in!

Shop, Earn, and Smile: Shopping Apps That Pay You Back

Shopping isn’t just about spending; it can be about earning, too! Shopping apps like Shopkick make it easy (and rewarding) to turn your everyday trips into a chance to score gift cards and other goodies. Shopkick is my personal favorite because it makes earning points, or kicks, super simple.

Ready to Start Earning? Join the Fun!

So there you have it — the easiest, most fun ways to earn money with your iPhone. Why wait to get in on the action? Download Shopkick for free today and join a community of savvy shoppers who know how to make every moment count. And don’t forget to follow us on Facebook and Instagram (@shopkick) for daily tips and inspiration. It’s time to turn your phone into your new favorite side hustle!

As a mom of three energetic boys, I’ve learned that fun is the secret to keeping anyone engaged — kids or adults. Whether it’s a backyard game of capture the flag or a spontaneous scavenger hunt, the joy of play keeps them going for hours. 

That same principle applies to shopping. The more fun it is, the more likely we are to stick with it — and shopping apps that turn errands into games are the perfect way to save money while having a blast. 

What Makes a Shopping App Fun? 

Here are the top features to look for: 

1. Points-Based Rewards: Apps that let you earn points for everyday actions — like walking into a store, scanning barcodes, or making purchases — make shopping feel like a game. The more you play, the more you earn! 
2. Gift Card Redemptions: Who doesn’t love a little treat? The best apps let you redeem your points for gift cards to your favorite stores like Target, Amazon, and Starbucks
3. Scavenger Hunt Style: Apps like Shopkick turn shopping into a scavenger hunt. You earn “kicks” for scanning items, watching videos, and even just walking into stores. It’s fun, rewarding, and totally addictive — in the best way

Top Picks for Fun Shopping Apps 

Here are a few apps that combine savings with entertainment: 

1. Shopkick – Earn kicks for in-store and online actions, then redeem for gift cards 
2. Receipt Hog – Snap photos of receipts to earn coins and play games for prizes
3. Fetch Rewards – Scan receipts to earn points toward gift cards
4. Ibotta – Get cashback for buying specific items and uploading receipts. 

Make Shopping Fun Again 

Whether you’re running errands or browsing online, these apps make saving money feel like play. And when you’re having fun, you’re more likely to stick with it — and rack up serious rewards. 

Ready to turn your next shopping trip into a game? Download Shopkick and start earning kicks today! 

Life with three boys? Nonstop. Between school drop-offs, soccer games, and “Mom, can you drive me to…?” moments, I’m always on the go. So, when it comes to earning rewards for shopping online, I’m all about speed. 

The faster I can turn my shopping into gift cards, the better — and trust me, there is a difference in how fast apps reward you. Here’s what the best ones do: 

• Easy to use: No tech degree needed. Just download, tap, and go 
• Quick points: Earn kicks just for walking into stores, scanning products, or shopping online 
• Fast cash-outs: Skip the $20 wait. With Shopkick, you can cash out at just $5 — hello, instant Starbucks fix 

Why Shopkick is my go-to: 

Shopkick lets me earn for shopping online and in-store, with rewards from my favorite spots like Amazon, Target, and Starbucks. The app’s fun, easy, and always packed with new ways to earn. Plus, the kicker community is full of tips and laughs — it’s shopping, but better. 

Speed matters, but so does loving the app you use. With Shopkick, you get both. 

Download Shopkick now and start earning rewards before your coffee gets cold. 

There are so many things I’m grateful for — my family, my friends, and the opportunities I’ve had. But when it comes to shopping, one of my biggest blessings is my lifelong bestie, Laura, who lives in New York City, aka my personal shopping paradise. 

Whenever I visit, we shop nonstop: Fifth Avenue’s Henri Bendel, vintage gems in the East Village, and boutique heaven in Brooklyn. It’s always amazing — and a little overwhelming. Funny enough, I felt the same way when I first discovered shopping rewards apps. There were so many options, I didn’t know where to start! 

So today, I’m sharing my favorite shopping rewards programs — the ones that feel like having a stylish, savvy best friend by your side (minus the NYC apartment). 

Store Brand Rewards Programs: My Top Picks 

Just like NYC has high-end boutiques and budget-friendly consignment shops, shopping rewards programs fall into two categories: store-specific apps and multi-store apps. Pro tip: use both to maximize your savings! 

Here are my favorite store brand rewards programs: 

My Starbucks Rewards 

Starbucks is my go-to oasis — especially when I’m wrangling kids at Target. With My Starbucks Rewards, you earn Stars every time you use a registered gift card. Two Stars per dollar spent = free drinks and snacks in no time! 

• Use it: Anytime you buy from Starbucks 
• Where: Any Starbucks location 
• How it works: Register a gift card, earn Stars with every purchase 
• Ways to save: Free drinks, birthday rewards, and in-store refills 

Target Circle 

Target is my happy place — from the dollar section to seasonal décor. Their app is a lifesaver, helping you plan trips, browse deals, scan barcodes, and save big with Target Circle. 

• Use it: Before and during Target trips 
• Where: In-store and online 
• How it works: Combines savings club + shopping assistant 
• Ways to save: Cartwheel offers (5–50% off), weekly ads, and exclusive deals 

Nordstrom Rewards 

If I’m not at Target, I’m probably browsing Nordstrom (or Nordstrom Rack or HauteLook). Nordstrom Rewards is free to join and super simple: earn one point per dollar, and trade 2,000 points for a $20 gift card. 

• Use it: Every time you shop 
• Where: Nordstrom, Nordstrom Rack, HauteLook 
• How it works: Earn points, redeem for gift cards 
• Ways to save: Early access to sales, bonus points with the Nordstrom credit card 

Multi-Store Shopping Apps: The Perfect Pairing 

Just like Laura and I complement each other, multi-store rewards apps pair perfectly with store-specific ones. These apps help you earn rewards across multiple retailers—so you save more, faster. 

Here are my top picks: 

Receipt Hog 

The name alone makes me smile. With Receipt Hog, you snap a photo of your receipt after shopping — whether it’s groceries, clothes, or home goods — and earn coins. You can also take surveys or play games for extra rewards. 

• Use it: After any purchase  
• Where: Any store  
• How it works: Upload receipts, earn coins  
• Ways to save: Trade 1,000 coins for $5 via PayPal or Amazon gift cards ‘

Shopkick

My favorite app by far is Shopkick. Here’s why: 

• Earn kicks for shopping in-store or online 
• Scan barcodes while you shop to earn extra points 
• Link your retailer accounts and earn kicks automatically on qualifying purchases 
• Get inspired with meal ideas in the app’s Discover tab 
• Score bonus kicks by shopping online at stores like Walmart — perfect for grocery pickup or delivery 

Bonus Tip: Stack Your Rewards! 

The best part? You don’t have to choose just one. Use store apps + multi-store apps together to double your savings. It’s like having your own personal NYC shopping spree — without the airfare. 

Ready to Shop Smarter? 

Download Shopkick today and start earning kicks while you shop your favorite stores. Join a community of savvy shoppers who know how to save while having fun. 

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

Of all the hobbies I’ve picked up over the years, photography has definitely become my favorite. I wouldn’t call myself a pro, but as smartphone cameras have evolved — with sharper resolutions, fancy features like portrait mode, and handy tools like image stabilizers — I’ve grown pretty confident with my skills. Taking photos of my kids? Easy. Capturing that stunning sunset on vacation? I’m on it. Even snapping the hilarious ways Starbucks baristas spell my name? You bet.

While photography might be a passion, here’s the fun twist: it’s also helping me earn rewards. No, I’m not selling my photos or entering competitions, but I’ve found a way to turn my everyday smartphone snaps into real savings. How, you ask? By taking pictures of my shopping receipts! It’s quick, easy, and, thanks to apps like Shopkick, super rewarding. So, whether you’re into artsy photography or simply love the idea of cashing in on your grocery trips, stick around, we’re diving into how you can turn snapshots into gift cards and perks you’ll actually use!

Why Take Pictures of Your Receipts?

Taking pictures of your receipts isn’t just another tech trick — it’s a total game-changer! Imagine earning rewards for purchases you were going to make anyway, no extra effort required. Shopping rewards apps, like Shopkick, let you earn points (called kicks) for uploading your receipts, making it an easy and satisfying way to save. It’s a win-win: you get rewarded for the everyday essentials you need, and those kicks can be redeemed for gift cards to stores you already love. Best Buy, Starbucks, Walmart… need we say more?

Plus, the process is so simple that it feels more like a fun hobby than a chore. Whether you’re grabbing groceries, treating yourself to a coffee run, or snagging your favorite products, Shopkick helps you make every receipt count. So why not turn shopping into earning? With just a quick photo, you’ll be on your way to rewards that feel like a little gift to yourself!

How to Take Pictures of Your Receipts

Snapping your receipts for rewards is easier than ever. Let’s break it down step-by-step!

1. Grab your receipt: After your shopping trip, make sure to save your receipt if you purchased any eligible items from the app
2. Open Shopkick: Launch the app and head to the receipt upload section. You’ll see clear instructions on what to do next
3. Position the receipt: Lay it flat in good lighting. Avoid wrinkles and shadows for a clear picture. Bonus tip: use a contrasting background so the receipt stands out!
4. Snap the photo: Using your phone’s camera, capture the entire receipt from top to bottom. Make sure all details — like store name, date, and items — are visible
5. Submit and earn kicks: Once your receipt is uploaded, Shopkick will process it. Before you know it, you’ll see kicks added to your account!

Remember, the better the picture quality, the quicker your kicks come through. And don’t forget — you can upload receipts from lots of stores, so your earning potential is endless!

Tips for Maximizing Your Rewards

Want to take your kick-earning game to the next level? Here are a few pro tips:

1. Upload regularly: Don’t wait — submit your receipts as soon as you can. Some stores have time limits for processing, so stay on top of it!
2. Combine earning methods: Shopkick isn’t just for receipts! Earn kicks by walking into participating stores, scanning product barcodes, or shopping online
3. Double-check your receipts: Make sure the details on your receipt are clear and complete. Blurry or incomplete uploads can slow down processing
4. Follow Shopkick on social media: Connect with the Shopkick community for tips, contests, and bonus opportunities to earn even more kicks
5. Try different stores: Shopkick partners with a variety of brands and retailers, so explore new stores to discover more kick-earning opportunities!

With just a little effort, those kicks can stack up quickly — and your next reward will be right around the corner.

Start Earning Rewards Today!

Don’t wait — download Shopkick now and start turning your shopping trips into gift cards and perks!

Shopping for groceries often feels like a juggling act — trying to stock up on everything you need while keeping your spending under control. And honestly, saving money isn’t always a walk in the park. Over time, I’ve found myself constantly on the lookout for new ways to stretch my budget a little further. I’ve tested everything from coupon-cutting marathons to bulk buying, but it wasn’t until I came across grocery apps that I discovered a whole new way to save.

Ebates App (rebranded as Rakuten)

When I first jumped into the world of grocery apps, Ebates was my first stop. Another mom casually mentioned how she’d managed to snag some cash back while shopping online, and I was instantly curious. So, I figured, why not give it a go? Ebates is basically a one-stop shop for finding deals, discounts, and cashback offers from more than 1,800 stores. If you’re like me and love saving on online purchases, it’s a pretty solid pick.

Here’s the lowdown: You sign up, browse through their list of stores, and click through to shop. Ebates keeps track of what you buy and gives you cash back on qualifying purchases. Easy, right? When I started using it, it felt like the perfect intro to shopping apps. I stuck with it for months, and those cashback rewards slowly piled up, giving me a little extra wiggle room in my budget.

Still, after a while, I started wishing for more — like something that could help with my regular grocery runs instead of just online shopping. Ebates was great, but it felt like a stepping stone. I wanted an app that could make saving feel a little more exciting. That’s when I decided to branch out, and trust me, it turned out to be totally worth it.

Shopkick App

Shopkick takes saving money to a whole new level by turning shopping into an entertaining experience. After trying out a bunch of apps, this one quickly became my top pick. Why? Because it’s more than just a way to save — it’s an app that makes every shopping trip feel exciting and worthwhile.

Here’s the deal: Shopkick gives you points (called kicks) for things you already do while shopping. You earn kicks by buying featured products, scanning barcodes to check out items, and even just stepping into certain stores. These kicks can then be traded in for gift cards to your favorite places like Target, Walmart, Amazon, and so many others. It’s saving, but with a fun twist.

Final Takeaway

The search for the perfect grocery app isn’t always easy, but trust me when I say that Shopkick is the real deal. After testing countless apps and juggling savings tools, Shopkick stands out for its ability to combine serious rewards with genuine fun. It’s the only shopping app that feels less like a chore and more like an adventure — one that you’ll actually look forward to every time you shop.

Get to know one of the best grocery apps to earn rewards for shopping. Download Shopkick today and join a community of loyal Shopkickers who’ve already discovered how much you can earn with the help of a free shopping sidekick.

Growing up, my mom was the family referee, breaking up fights between me and my siblings — usually with a good lecture at the end, reminding us that family is everything. Now, as a mom of three boys, I totally get it. But I’ve added my own twist: family — and Walmart — will always have your back. 

Why Walmart? Because my local store is basically open all the time, ready for everything — from last-minute school project supplies to groceries for a bake sale or cleaning supplies for our new puppy. Plus, Walmart’s prices are always a win.

But here’s the real game-changer: Walmart offers ways to stretch your budget even further. I’ve been racking up rewards and savings that add up fast — and make shopping feel less like a chore and more like a win. 

Walmart+ — Everyday Savings With Built-In Perks 

Think of Walmart+ as a membership that pays you back. For a monthly or annual fee, you unlock free delivery from your store, fuel discounts at participating gas stations, mobile Scan & Go, and access to early product drops. 

For my family, the free grocery delivery is huge — especially on those chaotic weeks when someone’s got practice, another has a school project due, and I’m still trying to get dinner on the table 

Cash Back With Ibotta — Automatic Rewards on Essentials 

If you’re into cash back apps, Walmart partners directly with Ibotta to make saving effortless. You can link your Walmart account, shop like usual, and earn real cash back on tons of everyday products. No scanning receipts, no juggling extra steps. Just savings that land straight in your Ibotta account. 

It’s like finding a few extra dollars in your jeans pocket every week — only better, because you can plan around it. 

Shopkick: My Favorite Way to Earn Rewards at Walmart—All Year Round

Now, the real MVP is Shopkick. This app lets me earn points (called kicks) just for walking into Walmart, scanning product barcodes, and making purchases — online or in-store. Then I trade kicks for gift cards to tons of popular stores. 

Shopkick makes grocery shopping feel like a fun scavenger hunt, and I’m obsessed. Plus, their social media game is strong — I spend way too much time laughing and swapping memes with fellow Shopkickers. 

Ready to start earning rewards every time you shop at Walmart?

Download the free Shopkick app and join the fun! And if you love shopping and social media as much as I do, follow Shopkick on Facebook and Instagram (@shopkick) for daily deals, laughs, and inspiration. 

Smart Hacks to Boost Your Rewards

To make the most of shopping apps like Shopkick, follow these tips:

• Be Consistent: Regularly check the apps for new missions, featured products, or bonus opportunities
• Scan Featured Products: Pay attention to items highlighted in the app. These often offer higher point values
• Leverage Bonuses: Many apps provide extra rewards for completing certain tasks or shopping during promotional periods. Stay on top of these offers to maximize your earnings
• Plan Your Trips: Combine errands with app missions to efficiently earn points while saving time

These strategies will help you rack up points faster and enjoy more rewards over time.

Staying Safe While Using Shopping Apps

Final Thoughts

Shopping apps that pay you in gift cards are a win-win for anyone looking to save money while shopping. Whether you’re scanning barcodes, completing missions, or just walking into a store, these apps make it easy to earn rewards.

So why wait? Download Shopkick and start turning your everyday shopping trips into opportunities to save. With the right strategy, you’ll be earning gift cards in no time, making your next tech purchase a little more budget-friendly — and a lot more rewarding!

I’ve always been a no-frills coffee person. While everyone at work raves about pumpkin spice and seasonal blends, I’ve stayed loyal to a good, classic latte. That is — until I met the flat white. Foamier, smoother, and honestly kind of life-changing. 

But if I’m being totally honest? The best coffee I’ve ever had wasn’t a latte or a flat white — it was the one I didn’t have to pay for. Coffee just tastes better when it’s covered by a free gift card I earned from shopping online. 

And it’s not just coffee. Popcorn at the movies? More buttery. Skincare from Sephora? More luxurious. Even paper towels feel like a win when they’re paid for with rewards points. 

How to Get Free Gift Cards for Online Shopping 

Earning free gift cards while shopping online is way easier than you might think. If you’re already browsing your favorite stores, adding things to your cart, or watching product videos, you’re halfway there. The right rewards app turns those everyday habits into points — and those points into free gift cards. 

Here’s what you can get rewarded for: 

• Visiting online stores 

• Browsing select products 

• Making purchases through the app 

• Watching short videos about products 

No extra work. Just extra perks. 

The Best Shopping Rewards Apps 

Ready to turn your online shopping into free coffee (or whatever you love most)? Here are my go-to picks: 

✅ Swagbucks
Earn points (called SB) for online searches, surveys, and shopping at partner stores. Redeem for gift cards once you hit 450 points — $5 at Amazon, Target, and more. 

✅ Rakuten (formerly Ebates)
Earn cash back at hundreds of stores and get promo codes to boost your savings. You’ll even get a welcome bonus when you sign up. 

✅ Shopkick (my personal fave!)
Shopkick rewards you with kicks for visiting online stores, discovering new products, making purchases, and watching quick videos. You can earn both online and in-store, and redeem your kicks for gift cards to places like Starbucks, Target, Sephora, and Amazon. It’s fun, easy, and super rewarding. 

When your cart is full of rewards and your coffee is free, shopping feels a lot more satisfying. 

Ready to earn while you scroll? 

Download the Shopkick app and start racking up kicks today — whether you’re grabbing essentials or just browsing deals in your PJs. 

How to Use Coupon Cactus to Earn Money Shopping Online

Who doesn’t love a good coupon? Coupon Cactus takes the familiar concept of clipping coupons and gives it a digital twist, making it easier than ever to save on your favorite items. It’s simple: shop online at stores offering exclusive deals through the site, and watch your savings stack up. Discounts can range from up to 30% off your total to flat savings like $2 off a featured item.

Once you hit $10 in cashback, you can cash out via PayPal or request a check, sent quarterly. You can even sort deals by most popular or newest, so you can quickly find the offers everyone’s buzzing about or discover fresh deals added since your last visit.

Why Coupon Cactus stands out:

• Digital coupons + cashback in one place
• Option to browse the newest or most popular offers
• Easy cashout via PayPal or check once you hit $10

How to Earn Cashback Online with Rakuten

Formerly known as Ebates, Rakuten has been a household name in the cashback world for years. The app and website let you earn cashback for shopping at thousands of top retailers like Macy’s, Walmart, and Target. Cashback percentages vary by store, but the process is always the same: start your shopping trip through Rakuten and earn money back on your purchases.

You can choose to receive your payout via PayPal or check every quarter, and Rakuten often offers bonus cash for new members and referrals. Around big shopping events like Black Friday and Cyber Monday, Rakuten’s seasonal deal pages make it easy to find all the top offers in one place.

Why Rakuten is a shopper’s best friend:

• Cashback at thousands of retailers
• Quarterly payouts via PayPal or check
• Seasonal shopping guides for major savings events

Shopkick: The Best Way to Earn Money Shopping, Online and In-Store

Ready to take your shopping game to the next level? Meet Shopkick, the app that rewards you for both online AND in-store shopping. Whether you’re browsing your favorite sites or hitting up local stores, Shopkick lets you earn kicks (aka points) for purchases — and even for simple tasks like watching product videos or scanning barcodes.

What makes Shopkick extra special is its versatility. You can pair it with other savings apps for a double dose of rewards, and it works seamlessly with your everyday shopping habits. Save up enough kicks, and you can trade them in for gift cards to your favorite stores — it’s that easy.

And yes, Shopkick even rewards you for grocery shopping. From essentials to little luxuries, you’ll earn while checking off your list.

Why Shopkick is a must-have:

• Use it for both online and in-store shopping
• Combine it with other apps to maximize your rewards
• Earn kicks just for browsing or completing small tasks — no purchase necessary!

I consider myself a solid shopper — efficient, focused, and fast. Grocery runs? I treat them like a personal race. In and out. Cart full. Mission complete. But honestly, shopping has always felt more like an obstacle between me and the fun stuff — work, family, fantasy football. 

That changed when I discovered shopping apps that actually pay you to shop. Suddenly, errands feel more like a game — complete with points, missions, and yes, real rewards. My wife and I even turned it into a friendly competition. Here are three of my favorite money-making apps for iPhone and Android: 

1. Shopkick – Best All-Around App for Earning While You Shop

Available on: iPhone & Android
Why I use it: Shopkick turns every trip to Target, Walmart, or the grocery store into a scavenger hunt. You earn “kicks” just for walking in, scanning items, or making a purchase. Those kicks turn into free gift cards. Easy. Fun. Surprisingly addictive. 

Bonus: I keep Shopkick open while I’m out—push notifications let me know when there’s a chance to earn nearby. It’s the one app I consistently use every week. 

2. Mobee – Mystery Shop for Coffee Money

Available on: iPhone & Android
Why I use it: Mobee gives you “missions” to complete at local stores — things like answering questions about service or snapping a quick photo of a display. Most missions earn 250–750 points, and 500 points = a gift card. I usually cash out for Starbucks. 

Pro tip: It feels like playing Inspector Gadget in real life, and the missions are easy to fit into regular errands. 

3. Slidejoy – Make Money from Your Lock Screen

Available on: Android only
Why I used it: Slidejoy replaces your lock screen with rotating ads. You don’t even have to interact with them — just swipe like normal and earn passive income (up to $10–$15/month). 

Heads up: It’s Android-only. I had to say goodbye when I switched to iPhone, but while I had it, it was a fun, set-it-and-forget-it app. 

Now, my weekly Target runs are part shopping trip, part point-chasing challenge. I use apps for everything — from checking fantasy scores to booking flights — so it only makes sense to add “getting paid to shop” to the list. 

Ready to level up your errands?
Download the Shopkick app and start earning free gift cards with every store visit.