Category: Kicks & tips

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.

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. Shopkick – Best 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!

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.

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.

Because saving while you shop online is just smart.

Amazon is a go-to destination for everything from last-minute gifts to everyday essentials. And while the convenience is unmatched, earning free Amazon gift cards makes the experience even better. Whether you’re shopping for school supplies, tech, or pantry staples, here are three easy ways to rack up rewards — no coupon clipping required.

1. Trade in Used Items (and Even Coins!)

Got old electronics, video games, or books collecting dust? Turn them into Amazon credit through the Amazon Trade-In Program. Eligible items can be shipped for free, and once they’re received and evaluated, you’ll get an Amazon gift card in return.

Another quick win? Coinstar machines found in most grocery stores let you convert spare change into Amazon gift cards — without the usual processing fee. It’s a great way to cash in on loose coins that might otherwise go unused.

2. Use a Rewards App That Pays You to Shop

One of the most reliable and fun ways to earn Amazon gift cards is by using Shopkick — a free rewards app that lets you earn points (called kicks) for the shopping you already do. You can earn kicks by:

• Walking into featured stores

• Scanning product barcodes

• Uploading receipts from qualifying purchases

• Shopping online

• Watching short videos in the app

Once you’ve collected enough kicks, you can redeem them for Amazon gift cards — or gift cards to dozens of other popular retailers. It’s like turning your regular shopping trips into a game — and the prize is real savings.

3. Skip the Surveys — Stick With Trusted Apps

While survey apps can sometimes offer small payouts, they often require a lot of time for very little reward — and they’re not always reliable. If you’re looking for consistency and simplicity, apps like Shopkick offer a faster path to gift cards without answering dozens of questions. Just shop, scan, and earn.

Shop Smarter, Save More

Earning Amazon gift cards doesn’t have to be complicated. With the right tools, you can turn everyday moments — like walking into a store or shopping online — into real rewards.

Download Shopkick today to start earning free Amazon gift cards and make your next checkout feel a little more rewarding.

Want more tips and savings inspo? Follow us on Instagram and Facebook to join a community of savvy shoppers who know how to make every kick count.

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I have a bit of a reputation among my friends—not for anything scandalous, but for being a bargain hunter. I’m the one who always knows about the unadvertised sales, the best times to buy, and how to save money without sacrificing the fun of shopping.

So after a recent spin class (the kind that leaves your legs like jelly), my friend Lisa came to me with a question: “I keep hearing about apps that pay you to shop… are they legit?”

I smiled, held up one finger, and said just one word: “Barcodes.”

Yes, Barcodes Can Actually Earn You Rewards

Lisa gave me a funny look at first, but I explained: there are real apps that reward you just for scanning product barcodes in-store. You don’t have to buy a thing—you simply scan featured products, earn points, and redeem them for gift cards. Yes, really.

We had a free afternoon, so we headed to our favorite outdoor mall and I gave her a real-time demo. Here’s how it works:

How Barcode Scanning Apps Like Shopkick Work

1. Download the app: Start by downloading Shopkick (or another rewards app) on your phone.

2. Head to your favorite store: Most apps work at popular retailers like Target, Walmart, CVS, and more.

3. Scan product barcodes: The app will show you a list of featured items. Open your camera through the app and scan the barcode.

4. Earn points (aka “kicks”): You get rewarded just for scanning—no purchase required.

5. Redeem for free gift cards: Once you’ve earned enough points, trade them in for gift cards to your favorite stores.

Some apps also give you bonus info like product details, prices, and extra points if you decide to purchase the item. But the beauty is—you don’t have to buy anything to start earning.

Make It Even More Fun with These Tips

Lisa was hooked. And of course, she immediately started brainstorming ways to make the whole process even more fun. Here are a few we came up with:

• Set personal records: Track how many kicks you earn each week and try to beat your high score.

• Turn it into a social game: Shop with friends and help each other spot big-point items.

• Create a kick goal: Pick a gift card you want—Target, Sephora, Best Buy—and scan your way toward it.

Why Shopkick Is My Favorite Barcode Scanning App

Out of all the apps I’ve tried, Shopkick is hands-down my favorite. It’s user-friendly, works at tons of stores, and makes errands feel like a scavenger hunt. You can earn kicks not just for scanning, but also for:

• Walking into select stores

• Uploading receipts

• Shopping online

• Watching short videos

• Referring friends

The gift card options are legit—Amazon, Starbucks, Ulta, Walmart, you name it. It’s one of the easiest ways to stretch your budget without changing your routine.

And the best part? It’s fun. Even Lisa, who swears she doesn’t like shopping, thinks it’s a blast.

Start Scanning, Start Earning

Apps that pay you for scanning barcodes are the perfect low-effort, high-reward hack for busy shoppers, parents, or just anyone who loves a good deal. And if you’re anything like me, you’ll love turning your everyday errands into a chance to treat yourself later.

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

Want even more tips, deals, and bonus kicks? Follow us on Facebook and Instagram for daily inspiration and the latest updates.

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

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

Thankfully, now there is.

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

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

Why I Ditched Store-Specific Apps

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

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

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

What I Look For in a Shopping Rewards App

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

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

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

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

Why Shopkick Is My Go-To Shopping Rewards App

My absolute favorite? Shopkick.

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

• Walking into stores

• Scanning product barcodes

• Making purchases (in-store and online)

• Watching videos or discovering new products in the app

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

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

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

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

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

Ready to Start Earning While You Shop?

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

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

Get your kicks. Download Shopkick and start earning today.

I’m what you might call a Shopkick expert. Earning a free gift card every month? That’s just part of my routine. I usually cash them in for Starbucks treats or combine them with other store rewards for even more savings. Right now, I’m saving up for a Best Buy gift card for someone special.

But here’s the thing: while most people know the basics of Shopkick — shop, get kicks, earn rewards — not everyone knows how to use the app to its fullest. So, I’m here to break it down. Below are the tips, tricks, and best practices for earning more kicks the right way.

Start with the Basics

• First, download the Shopkick app and set up your account

• Next, turn on Bluetooth and notifications so you never miss a kick opportunity

• In addition, open the app daily to catch new products and updated kick offers

• Lastly, update your app regularly to make sure you have the latest features

How to Earn Kicks In-Store

Once your app is up-to-date and your settings are on, you’re ready to earn kicks every time you head to the store. Here’s how:

• Walk into a participating store with the app open and Bluetooth on

• Then, scan featured products in the app

• After that, buy eligible products and submit your receipt

• Finally, link your retailer accounts with Walmart, Target, and more to earn automatically

Pro Tip: Try to complete all four on one shopping trip. That way, you can maximize your earnings.

How to Earn Kicks from the App (Without Leaving Home)

Shopkick isn’t just for in-store shopping — there are tons of ways to earn kicks from home too:

• To start, watch short videos to learn about new products

• Next, tap the Discover tab for surprise kicks and daily bonuses

• Also, shop online through the app at partnered retailers

• Lastly, invite friends and earn bonus kicks after they shop

Bonus Tip: I often load my cart on desktop, then, open Shopkick and complete the purchase through the app to ensure I earn kicks.

How to Earn Kicks the Right Way

To keep things fair — and to protect your ability to earn gift cards — follow these best practices:

• Always scan in-store only. You must be physically in the store, scanning the actual product on the shelf

• Also, stick to one account per person. Don’t sign up for multiple accounts — Shopkick monitors for suspicious activity

• Furthermore, keep your account secure. Don’t share your mobile number or login credentials

• Finally, invite (and shop with) friends. Shopkick is more fun — and more rewarding — when you do it together

Final Thoughts

That’s everything I know about how to earn kicks on Shopkick — and I’ve earned a lot. If you have tips too, share them with us on social. And don’t forget, if you’re not already following Shopkick on Facebook or Instagram, now’s the time — you’ll find inspiration, special offers, and maybe a few surprises.

Happy Shopkicking!