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Category: Save

When Should You Budget?

Posted on by shopkick

We all know saving is smart and overspending isn’t — but putting those simple principles into practice? Not always so simple. Good money habits take time and intention. And if you’re working to build lasting financial wellness, the best place to start is with one key habit: your budget.

We’ve all heard the word “budget” before — from parents, personal finance books, or maybe from painful trial and error. But knowing we should budget is different from knowing how and when to actually make it work.

Let’s walk through some practical tips to help you use your budget as a tool, not a burden.

1. Budget Before You Get Paid

Payday feels like a celebration — especially if you’ve been counting down the days with just a few dollars left. But if you wait until after the direct deposit hits to start thinking about your budget, it’s easy to overspend in those first few days. (Looking at you, Target.)

Instead, plan your budget before your paycheck lands. Decide in advance where your money will go, so you’re not left scrambling at the end of the month — or checking your account balance with dread on the 29th.

2. Give Every Dollar a Job

Budgeting doesn’t mean restricting — it means being intentional. When you assign every dollar a purpose (bills, groceries, savings, fun), you’re creating a plan instead of wondering where your money went.

Yes, this includes fun money! The goal isn’t to eliminate joy — it’s to make space for it without guilt.

3. Use Your Budget as a Daily Guide

Your budget isn’t a one-time task. It’s a living, breathing tool that you should revisit often. Check it before making a purchase, use it to help you say “no” when needed, and feel good saying “yes” when it aligns with your goals.

It’s not about deprivation — it’s about freedom within boundaries you’ve set for yourself.

4. Let It Evolve With Your Life

Your budget should change as your life changes. What worked in college probably doesn’t work now. And even a budget from a few months ago might not fit today’s priorities.

As you shift through new seasons — new jobs, relationships, kids, goals — your budget should shift too. Revisit it monthly and adjust it before each new paycheck, so it stays aligned with your reality.

Your Budget = Your Power Plan

A budget is more than numbers on a spreadsheet — it’s a promise you’ve made to yourself. It’s the plan that keeps your goals in focus and your spending in check. It’s the daily habit that helps you stress less, save more, and get one step closer to the life you want.

Here’s to budgeting with purpose — and making every dollar count.

How to Earn Kicks: 16 Tips for Shopkick Success

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I’m a Shopkick master, everyone knows that. I mean, it’s nothing for me to earn a gift card a month, which I promptly spend on splurges at Starbucks or combine with all my Walmart Savings Catcher deals for extra savings. Right now, I’m saving up for a Best Buy gift card for a special someone.

how to earn kicks on ShopkickBut, it recently came to my attention that while almost everyone knows how Shopkick works (you shop! you get kicks! you redeem for gift cards!) not everyone really knows how to earn kicks on Shopkick the right way. So, I thought, “Let’s fix that!” Here are some things every Shopkicker should be doing, how to follow the Shopkick rules—and some tips for getting the most out of the very best shopping app, Shopkick.

How to Earn Kicks: The Nitty Gritty

Obviously, you’ve already downloaded the Shopkick app and set up your profile. Once you’ve done that, everything else kind of runs itself. Still, there are some things you can master to get the most kicks possible:

  • Turn on notifications and Bluetooth: Do this so that you never miss an opportunity, like a great sale or a chance for extra points. The app will also let you know if you’re about to walk past a store that’s got a deal for extra kicks.
  • Open the app at least once a week: New places to get kicks come up all the time. Plus, kick amounts increase often and products change frequently.
  • Stay up-to-date: Be sure to update the app whenever there’s a new release to make sure you always have the latest, greatest working version of Shopkick.

How to Earn Kicks in-Store

So, you’re up-to-date and your Bluetooth is turned on. It’s time to start earning kicks … for everything you do. Challenge yourself to do these four things the next time you go shopping and watch the kicks start rolling in:

  • Walk into a store: Many stores give kicks just for walking through the door! Just remember to have the app open and Bluetooth turned on.
  • Scan products: Get kicks!
  • Buy products and upload a receipt: Get kicks!
  • Link your credit card and make a purchase: Get kicks!

How to Earn Kicks from the App

Sometimes, I’m too lazy to go out. At those times, I like to earn kicks while shopping in my jammies. From my phone. And, hey, Shopkick is the best mobile shopping app, after all. When I open the Shopkick app, I:

  • Watch a video: Learn more about products—and get kicks!
  • Find an instant surprise: Go on a treasure hunt to find instant surprises. These are located under the Discover tab.
  • Make an online purchase: This is self-explanatory, but here’s an added tip: Sometimes I go to my favorite online shops on my desktop to load up my cart. Then, I open up my Shopkick app and navigate to that store and buy everything in my cart—and get kicks!
  • Invite friends: You can earn free kicks whenever someone you invite to Shopkick downloads the app and starts using it.

How to Earn Kicks on the Web

So, as I mentioned, sometimes I prefer to shop online, then buy everything from my handy-dandy Shopkick app. Other times, though, I like to earn rewards for shopping on the web. Here’s how:

  • Open a browser on your computer: Go to www.shopkick.com and login using the same credentials as you do to log into the app on your mobile phone.
    See unique stores like Macy’s and Sephora where you can earn kicks for online purchases.

How to Earn Kicks on Shopkick the Right Way

As it turns out, some people like to try to break the rules. Nobody likes a cheater, so here’s how to play fair and not get banned:

  • Scan in-store only: For scans, make sure you are in the store when you attempt to scan a product and that you scan the actual physical item. Remember, the companies paying for all those amazing free gift cards you get with your kicks—retailers like T.J.Maxx and Marshalls and brands like Lego and Tylenol—love to be on Shopkick because it helps them connect with their customers in a fast, fun, easy way. They reward Shopkick for helping them, and Shopkick passes those rewards on to all you awesome Shopkickers. It’s a win-win-win for everyone, but it only works if you’re physically interacting with products in the store.
    Also, don’t fall into any traps or “creative shortcuts” that may have you breaking the rules; Shopkick’s technology detects when rules are being broken. Yikes!

It’s a win-win-win for everyone, but it only works if you’re physically interacting with products in the store.

  • Be unique: Another way people get in trouble is by having more than one Shopkick account on their phone. If someone pretends to be multiple people—by signing up for multiple Shopkick accounts—that raises serious red flags. To protect the members of the Shopkicking community who are playing fair and who want to keep getting gift cards, Shopkick asks rule-breakers to leave (which they hate to do!)
  • Keep your mobile number to yourself: Don’t share your number with someone else. No one else should be logging into your account from their phone. It looks suspicious,  like one person is trying to pretend to be many people.
  • Invite—and shop with—friends: Help your BFFs get Shopkicking! An easy and fun way to keep racking up the kicks is to Shopkick with others. I personally love to head out with my friends. I hear all the time how Shopkickers like to Shopkick with their sisters, mothers, daughters, husbands, wives, etc. They use it as a way to get their steps—and kicks—in on evenings or days off. Both you and your friends will get extra kicks after they earn their first kicks in-store within seven days of accepting your invitation. Why not go with them on their first Shopkicking adventure and show them the ropes?

So, that’s it my Shopkicking friends—my best advice on how to earn kicks on Shopkick so you can rack up the points! If you have any other ideas, I’d love to hear them.

If you’re as social media savvy as you are shopping savvy, join us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram for daily shopping fun.

Image courtesy Zinkevych

8 Ways to Save Money While Shopping With the Girls

Posted on by shopkick
In my experience, there are two kinds of shopping trips: the fun, carefree kind where spending isn’t top of mind, and the strategic kind where you’re all about value and stretching your budget. I’ve done plenty of both — and these days, I’m all about saving while still enjoying the moment (especially when I’m out with my girls).

Over time, I’ve discovered a set of go-to tips that help me save more and shop smarter — without sacrificing any of the fun. Whether we’re hitting up Target, the mall, or grabbing Starbucks between stores, these tricks have made all the difference. Here are eight ways to save money while shopping with your crew:

1. Make a List and Stick to It

Impulse buys happen — unless you go in with a plan. Before heading out, jot down what you actually need. Using a list (even in an app!) helps keep your shopping focused and budget-friendly. It also gives you more room to splurge on the things that matter most.

2. Earn Rewards on Grocery Trips

Let’s be honest: grocery runs aren’t always the most exciting. But when you use shopping rewards apps, you can earn points (or even cash) for your everyday purchases — and then use those rewards on more fun shopping trips with your friends.

3. Save on Coffee Stops

My Starbucks habit is real — so finding ways to save on it is a must. From loyalty programs to credit card perks and shopping apps that offer gift cards, there are plenty of ways to earn your next cup for free. More energy = more shopping.

4. Set a Spending Limit

It may sound basic, but having a budget in mind before you head out is powerful. My friends and I talk about our limits ahead of time and help each other stick to them. It’s fun to shop — and even better when you leave the store with no regrets.

5. Watch Videos and Earn Rewards

There are apps that reward you just for watching short videos — yes, really. I squeeze them in while waiting in line, eating breakfast, or winding down at night. It might not seem like much at first, but it adds up fast.

6. Use Coupon Apps

Gone are the days of digging through your purse for paper coupons. Today’s coupon apps make saving simple with digital discounts you can apply right at checkout. Just open the app, scan, and save.

7. Join Loyalty Programs

If you’re shopping at the same stores often — like Target, Walmart, Starbucks, or Best Buy — make sure you’re signed up for their rewards programs. They’re free, easy to use, and help you earn savings just for doing what you already do.

8. Use Shopkick (My Favorite!)

Of all the apps I’ve tried, Shopkick is my absolute favorite. It rewards you for things you already do: walking into stores, scanning items, watching videos, and making purchases. You can even earn kicks (Shopkick’s points) from home, like during your morning coffee or while lounging on the couch.

I love that I can use it both in-store and online at retailers like Amazon, Walmart, and more — and trade in those kicks for gift cards. My whole shopping crew uses it now, and it makes our girls’ days out that much more fun and rewarding.

Ready to Save Together?
If you’re looking to stretch your shopping budget without cutting back on the fun, these tips are a great place to start. And if you haven’t already, download the free Shopkick app and join a community of smart, savvy shoppers. You’ll earn rewards for shopping the way you already do — just with a little more strategy (and a lot more savings).

And for even more inspiration, follow Shopkick on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter.

5 Ways to Save Money Before the Holidays

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Believe it or not, we’ve officially made it to mid-December — and if it feels like the month is flying by, you’re not alone. Hanukkah is well underway, and Christmas is just around the corner. With holiday to-do lists growing by the minute, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed — especially when it comes to staying on budget.

If you’re still checking off gifts or prepping for celebrations, don’t worry — it’s not too late to save! Here are five simple ways to keep your spending in check while still embracing the season.

1. Watch for Last-Minute Sales

Retailers (big and small!) are still rolling out daily deals as they aim to hit their end-of-year goals. Flash sales — especially on clothing and accessories — can change quickly, so it pays to stay alert. Keep an eye on your inbox if you’re signed up for brand emails, or check your favorite store’s website regularly. The sale you’ve been waiting for could drop any day!

2. Redeem Your Kicks

When’s the last time you checked your Shopkick balance? If it’s been a while, now’s the time. Redeem your kicks for gift cards to help cover the cost of those final items on your list. Whether it’s a toy, tech, or last-minute stocking stuffer, using kicks to shave down your total feels like a holiday win.

3. Stick to Your List

Extra store runs are par for the course in December — but they’re also where unplanned spending sneaks in. Before you head out, make a list of what you truly need and commit to sticking with it. If something unexpected catches your eye, pause and decide: is it worth editing your list, or will it blow your budget?

4. Shop Online + Pick Up In-Store

This hybrid method has become a holiday hero. You still earn kicks, you avoid shipping costs, and you dramatically reduce impulse buys by only shopping from your pre-planned list. Plus, many retailers offer same-day pickup — and it’s a great way to avoid crowds and stay socially distant. It’s efficient, cost-effective, and safer.

5. Go Homemade

When it comes to heartfelt gifts, DIY almost always wins. Whether it’s a batch of cookies, a framed photo, a handmade ornament, or a home-cooked meal, these gifts are thoughtful, personal, and budget-friendly. Best of all, they show your loved ones how much you care — without maxing out your wallet.

What are your go-to ways to save this season?
Share your best tips and ideas with our community on Facebook — we’d love to hear how you’re making the most of the holidays, your way.

This shopping app for clothes will have all your friends envying you!

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One of the best feelings in life is when someone compliments your outfit, and then asks you where you found such a cute shirt or pair of shoes. I’m always happy to tell my friends where I got something, but I would be lying if it didn’t make me feel good to be a subject of their envy, if even for a moment. I love the attention so much that it motivates me to spend more time and energy shopping at my favorite stores. However, the problem with spending more time and energy at my favorite stores is that I’m also spending more money. Luckily for me and my budget, I recently discovered a shopping app for clothes that rewards me for making purchases. 

Now, not only are my friends envying my outfits, but they’re also envying the fact that I’m able to use a shopping app to help me shop for clothes (and make money while shopping). But don’t worry, I don’t mind sharing the wealth. So, if you’re looking for a shopping app for clothes, I’ve got you covered. 

How to Find the Right Shopping App for Clothes

learn how to use a shopping app for clothesOne thing I should note right away is that there are lots of different shopping apps for clothes to choose from. There are apps that you can use to find and buy clothes, there are apps that you can only use at certain stores, and there are apps that work like digital coupons, although those are much more common for something like grocery shopping than for clothes. At the same time, there is also a certain type of shopping app for clothes that you can use at many different stores, and these are the ones I would recommend. If you’ve done as much clothing shopping as I have, you know that to find the perfect shoes or handbag, you may have to visit more than one store. You need a shopping app that you can use at your favorite stores! 

You also want to make sure you find an app that gives you rewards for shopping online, too. When I was younger, I used to buy all my clothes in physical stores, but these days I buy about half my clothes in-person and the other half online, especially now that I shop at stores where I automatically know what size and fit I need. Many of my friends do the same, and I suspect you’re nodding your head right now too, thinking about your own shopping habits. So make sure to get a shopping app that you can use online, too!

Look for Apps That Reward 

In addition to being versatile, the best shopping apps for clothes, in my opinion, all work with a rewards system. What this means is that instead of having some kind of sale alert or coupon functionality, they give you rewards points instead. You can then trade these rewards points in for gift cards or use them to earn cashback. I think it’s pointless to use an app that doesn’t reward you. If you’re rewarded for making a purchase, you’re probably going to purchase again to earn even more rewards. 

In addition to being versatile, the best shopping apps for clothes, in my opinion, all work with a rewards system.

Give Shopkick a Try

If you’re in need of a suggestion for a shopping app for clothes, I would recommend Shopkick—it checks all the boxes I talked about above. You can use it both online and in-person. It gives you points for several different activities, including walking into stores, scanning barcodes on items, and making purchases. Finally, it also gives you rewards points, which it calls kicks, that you can trade-in for gift cards that are just as good as cash.

What I also like about Shopkick is that the list of stores where you can use it is so large. I can use Shopkick at stores with great savings on designers like T.J. Maxxx, Marshalls, and Kohls. I can also use it for the stores where I like to get my work or going out clothes, like Lane Bryant and Banana Republic. I can even use it to get workout clothes at Under Armour! The list of stores is always growing so it’s best to check with the app often so you know which stores to find the best deals and earn the most kicks. And, while you’re checking it, click the “Discover” tab to learn about new products, too! 

I highly recommend Shopkick as the shopping app for clothes that will have all your friends envying you. The list of stores is unmatched, you can use it both online and off, and it’s a whole lot of fun. With Shopkick, I’ve been saving more and more money while shopping for clothes. And you know what that means, I can afford to buy more clothes at my favorite stores!

It’s time to get your kicks while shopping for clothes! Shopkick is the best shopping app for clothes that will have all your friends envying you. Download the app today! 

Image courtesy of Syda Productions

Use one shopping app to make money at your favorite stores

Posted on by shopkick

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, there is.

Today, if you’re a tech-savvy shopper like me, you’ve likely ditched the scissors and paper coupons in favor of shopping apps. And while many retailers offer their own apps or loyalty programs, I’ve found something better — a single 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. But the problem? You have to juggle a different app for every store. It’s too much to manage, and they only reward you for shopping at one place.

That’s 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 a store, browsing, scanning barcodes, shopping online, or watching videos.

The trick is finding one 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 boxes:

  • Works on both Android and Apple devices: I use an iPhone, but I love sharing finds with my mom who’s team Samsung.

  • Supports in-store and online shopping: I’m about 50/50 with how I shop — so I need an app that covers both.

  • Fun to 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 App

My absolute favorite? Shopkick.

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

  • 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. I’ve personally used mine to stock up on groceries, grab new household essentials, and even treat myself.

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

What I love most about Shopkick is that it turns every 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.

The “Discover” tab is also great for quick recipes or learning about trending items — especially when I’m in a cooking rut or looking for a little inspiration.

And yes — you can use Shopkick alongside other store apps. That way, you earn rewards from multiple places at once. Win-win.

Ready to Start Earning While You Shop?

If you want 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.

Learn how to spend less money as a student in college with shopping apps

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People always say college is a learning experience that goes way beyond lectures and textbooks. And they’re right — I’ve learned how to manage my time, take care of myself, and most recently, how to spend less money as a student.

When you’re responsible for buying all your own essentials, that weekly grocery bill (or dorm décor haul) can sneak up on you. And while I still love surprise care packages from my mom, I know I can’t count on them forever.

So, if you’re also trying to stretch your student budget without sacrificing everything fun, here’s one of my favorite tricks — and it all starts with your phone.

Download a Shopping Rewards App

There are tons of ways to spend less as a college student — stay in more, eat out less, volunteer, live off ramen (we’ve all been there). But even with all that, I found myself going over budget at the store. That’s when I discovered the magic of shopping rewards apps.

The best ones work at a variety of stores, are easy to use, and actually fun (unlike Chem 101). They should fit into your normal routine so that saving doesn’t feel like a chore.

Why I Use Shopkick

After trying a few apps, Shopkick became my go-to. Here’s why:

  • You earn points (called kicks) for everyday shopping behaviors — like walking into stores, scanning items, or making purchases.

  • You can also earn kicks online by visiting websites, watching videos, or shopping through eReceipts.

  • It works for both in-person and online shopping, so it fits into my busy schedule.

Using Shopkick seriously feels like turning every errand into a mini scavenger hunt — which makes it way more enjoyable than just picking up toothpaste and cereal.

Turn Kicks Into Gift Cards

Here’s where the real savings come in: once you collect enough kicks, you can redeem them for gift cards to major stores like Target, Walmart, and Amazon. That means you can get your dorm supplies, snacks, or next go-to hoodie without dipping into your bank account.

Spend Less, Stress Less

Shopkick has made a big difference in how I manage money as a student. It’s rewarding (literally), fun to use, and a smart way to make your budget go further. I even find myself looking forward to shopping, which is a big shift from seeing it as just another expense.

So, consider this your cram session on how to spend less in college. You might not remember every detail, but if you remember one thing, make it this: Shopkick is your new budget-friendly bestie.

Download the app today and start earning your kicks — because being a student is expensive enough.

How to save money on groceries without coupons

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My friend Lisa has always had a deep appreciation for all things retro. She loves to go shopping at thrift stores for retro clothes—from 1950s dresses to leg warmers from the ‘80s. She has beautiful retro magazine covers framed and hanging all over her house. In fact, she even saves money on her groceries in a retro way: coupon clipping. When I came to her about wanting to save money on groceries, she recommended I give it a try. 

We’ve been friends for a long time so, of course, I trust her judgment; I decided to give coupon clipping a try. Man, was it a fail! I didn’t make it a full two weeks before I was completely over it; it took too much time and effort—sifting through newspapers and sales papers for the best deal and physically cutting them out to place in a binder, just to get to the store to have to spend even more time searching for the products on sale. I realized that I needed to learn how to save money on groceries without coupons. Then I remembered something I read online about a shopping rewards app for groceries and how much I could save without having to do the work of couponing.  

I shared the article with Lisa and while she was a bit hesitant to give up on her strategy, she said she’d give mine a try to return the favor. After about a month, Lisa told me how much time and money she’d saved by using a shopping rewards app instead of clipping coupons. 

If you’re tired of spending countless hours clipping coupons, you’ll definitely want to read on to learn how to save money on groceries without coupons.    

Say Good-Bye to Coupons and Hello to Shopping Rewards Apps

I definitely understood Lisa’s fondness for clipping coupons. She said—and I agreed—that it helps you relax and organize your shopping plan; I’ll give her that. But, in the end, shopping rewards apps were just so much more convenient. We all know how clipping coupons work, and, in fact, I’m sure many of us grew up doing it with our parents. Some of you, however, might be less familiar with shopping rewards apps, so I’ll explain how they work.

What Are Shopping Rewards Apps?

how to save money on groceries without couponsThere are many types of shopping rewards apps out there but the best ones allow you to earn points for things you do when you go out shopping already, things like walking into stores, scanning barcodes of products, and, of course, making purchases. The more activities you do or the more you spend, the more potential you have to earn points. Once you’ve earned enough points, you’re typically able to trade them in for some sort of reward like cash back or gift cards to use towards future purchases. 

Like coupons, shopping rewards apps can’t help you save money if you don’t use them. Having a shopping app that is fun to use makes you less likely to forget it when you go out to the store, and that means you’ll have the chance to earn points towards savings each and every time you shop! 

How to Save Money on Groceries Without Coupons 

My favorite shopping rewards app is called Shopkick; and, how it works is pretty simple. Shopkick gives you points—which it calls kicks—for things you do whenever you shop for groceries, things like ordering groceries online, walking into stores, scanning barcodes on items, and making purchases in-store. Once you get your kicks, you can then trade them in later for gift cards that you can use to purchase even more groceries—no coupons required. And, if I forget to open the app while shopping, no worries. By linking my Visa or MasterCard to my Shopkick account and making purchases, I can still earn kicks—maximizing my credit card rewards, too!   

There’s a lot to love about Shopkick. For example, if you’re ever in need of meal inspiration, there are tons of recipes featured within the “Discover” tab of the app, making planning meals a breeze! Another one of my favorite things about Shopkick is the way I can use it to order my groceries online with Walmart and receive 900 kicks! I can open the app and shop directly on Walmart’s site and have my groceries delivered or I can pick them up. It’s the perfect way to save money while also earning rewards points towards gift cards to use on future purchases. Shopkick even has a cool feature that gives me ideas for recipes, helping me plan ahead. Many of the recipes feature products that allow me to earn kicks towards gift cards when purchased together. Shopkick has definitely turned into my shopping companion; I take it everywhere I go!

Shopkick has definitely turned into my shopping companion; I take it everywhere I go!

Speaking of shopping companions, I ran into Lisa last week while out shopping for groceries and it was so funny because we were both scanning the same product to earn kicks on Shopkick. We looked up at each other and laughed. We were saving money and having fun while doing it! Shopkick has literally turned every trip out to the store into a fun scavenger hunt for points. It’s so fun to use and if you’re a competitive shopper like me, you’ll want to use it as much as possible to boost your savings.  

So there you have it, a way to save money on your groceries without coupons. And, Lisa and I both agree that when it comes to shopping, there’s no better way to do it than by using Shopkick!

It’s time to let go of the old way of shopping for the best deals and start earning kicks! Shopkick makes shopping a rewarding experience, and it’s the perfect way to save money on groceries without coupons. Download the app today and start getting your kicks instantly! 

Image courtesy of mangostock

3 ways to spend less money on groceries when you’re shopping on a budget

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When I’m planning my budget for each month I always look back over the previous month to see if there are any areas to improve. And of course, I always seem to go over my allotted budget for groceries; and I know exactly why that happens—my lack of planning. Then, once I’ve spent too much, I have to find ways to make my budget stretch in other areas. 

The only advantage of having to stretch my budget for the past few months is that I’ve been thinking of ways to spend less money on groceries. And, luckily for all of you, I’ve found a few ways that I’m happy to share so that you won’t have to make the same mistakes. 

How to Spend Less Money on Groceries

Plan Your List in Advance

When I was a kid, my parents would always say: “If you fail to plan, you plan to fail.” If I’m being honest, at the time I didn’t think much of it, but now that I’m an adult, I find it invaluable. By keeping that saying in mind, I’ve figured out how I can spend less money on groceries. When I go to the store without a list, I end up buying items that don’t get used until months later. If I plan my shopping list in advance, even by meal sometimes, I only use the money that I planned to spend on groceries that month. Not only does this way of grocery shopping help me save money, but it also reduces the amount of food that goes to waste because of my impulsive buying. I’ve gotten so good at planning ahead, that I’ve even learned how to plan my meals around the items that are on sale. If there’s a discount on pasta sauce and noodles when purchased together, you can bet we’re having spaghetti!  

Order Groceries Online

how to spend less money on groceriesI have to be honest. When some of my favorite stores like Walmart began offering online grocery ordering, I was a bit reluctant. I’m the shopper who likes to pick up and look through the cartons of strawberries to make sure the ones at the bottom aren’t too soft and moldy. The thought of someone else just grabbing my groceries for me kind of weirded me out. “What if they don’t pick the brand I like?” “What if they don’t reach from the back and grab the milk with the furthest expiration date?” But, if I’m also being honest, because I finalize my grocery order online, I don’t have to worry about getting distracted and grabbing items that aren’t on my list. I even like that I can see my cart while shopping so if I feel something increases the bill by too much, I save it for next month.    

By ordering my groceries online, I’m able to spend less money on groceries and I can do it from the comfort of my own home. I don’t even have to leave my house when I choose the delivery option—saving money on groceries and gas!

By ordering my groceries online, I’m able to spend less money on groceries and I can do it from the comfort of my own home.

Download Shopkick

This last way to spend less money on groceries is actually my favorite because I can use it with the ways I mentioned above. This way is a shopping rewards app called Shopkick. The way that Shopkick works is simple. It gives you points—which it calls kicks—for things you do whenever you shop for groceries, things like ordering groceries online, walking into stores, scanning barcodes on items, and making purchases in-store. Once you get your kicks, you can then trade them in later for gift cards that you can use to purchase even more groceries, spending less money from your budget.

There’s a lot to love about Shopkick. However, one of my favorite things about it is the way I can use it to order my groceries online with Walmart and receive 900 kicks! I can open the app and shop directly on Walmart’s site and have my groceries delivered or I can pick them up. It’s the perfect way to spend less money while also earning rewards points towards gift cards to use on future purchases. Shopkick even has a cool feature that gives me ideas for recipes, helping me plan ahead. Many of the recipes feature products that allow me to earn kicks towards gift cards when purchased together.  

These three ways to spend less money on groceries have definitely been invaluable for me and my budget. I don’t think I’ve ever met anyone who wouldn’t want to spend less money on groceries, which is why I try to tell everyone I know about these methods. I want to spread the savings around as much as I can!

It’s time to spend less money on groceries while earning kicks! Shopkick makes shopping a rewarding experience. Download the app today so you can get in on the savings! 

Image courtesy of wavebreakmedia

How to maximize credit card rewards with Shopkick

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I’m usually the one in my group of friends with all the hacks when it comes to shopping. But after meeting up with my girls for lunch last week, I found out that I’ve yet to master the art of shopping. 

Somehow we got on the topic of credit cards and I told them that while I do have them, I’d always preferred using cash or my debit card to shop because I didn’t want to have to worry about paying it off later. They immediately told me that I was doing it all wrong and how much I was missing out. Since I love to shop, they told me how often I could be earning points towards cashback, gift cards, and frequent flier miles just for using a credit card to shop. I’m always down for getting the most out of my shopping trips, so I took their advice. And let me tell you, I’m definitely glad I did. I even found out how to maximize credit card rewards by using my favorite shopping app.

If you’ve been in the dark about credit card rewards like I have, you’ll definitely want to pay close attention while I tell you just how you can maximize credit card rewards by using a mobile shopping app.  

What I’ve Learned About Credit Card Rewards 

how to maximize credit card rewardsOne thing I’ve learned about maximizing credit card rewards is that there are so many different ways to do it; you just have to choose the method that works for you. For instance, I have a friend who travels regularly for work. She uses her own credit card to pay for her flights, hotels, and rental cars, and then she has her job reimburse her. This might seem like a lot, but she swears by it—insisting that this way, she gets to keep all the rewards that she earns from the initial purchases.

I don’t travel for work—and maybe you don’t either—and that’s okay because there are plenty of other opportunities to maximize your credit card rewards by making everyday purchases. One way that I’ve found that works for me is by using a shopping rewards apps—an app that I’ve downloaded and linked my credit card to in an effort to really maximize my rewards. 

The Best Type of Shopping App to Maximize Rewards

If you have never before heard of shopping rewards apps, that’s okay. It wasn’t too long ago that I hadn’t either, and now I consider myself a bit of an expert on how to combine shopping rewards apps with my credit card to really maximize my reward-earning potential. The first step is to understand what shopping rewards apps are available to you and how they work. There are several different kinds, ranging from apps that reward you for shopping at certain stores to apps that reward you for particular types of purchases such as gas or coffee.

The best type of shopping rewards app to link with your credit card is one you can use at several different stores—both online stores and physical locations. You can obviously use your credit card almost anywhere, so you’ll want to get a shopping rewards app that is equally as versatile; otherwise, you’ll be as my friends say, “missing out.” 

Maximize Credit Card Rewards with Shopkick

My favorite shopping rewards app is Shopkick. I’ve been using Shopkick for years but it wasn’t until recently that I decided to link my credit card with the app. You see, before, I was using Shopkick any time I went out shopping for the essentials because it’s so easy to use that I’ve incorporated it into my routine. Before leaving the house, I would look up nearby stores that were offering rewards points (also called “kicks” in the app). Some of these stores offer kicks for simply walking in. Then, I would open the app to see what products I could locate to scan for even more kicks; it’s like a fun scavenger hunt for rewards. Once I’d earned enough kicks, I could trade them in for a gift card to do even more shopping! 

Now that I’ve linked my credit card, I have the chance to earn even more rewards. The credit card that I use already gives me a percentage back on purchases, so by linking it with Shopkick, I’m rewarded for using the app too! Once I discovered this, I couldn’t wait to tell my friends how I’d taken their advice up a notch. They told me that they’d expected nothing less of me since I was the self-proclaimed “Master Shopper.”  

Now that I’ve linked my credit card, I have the chance to earn even more rewards.  

I know from experience that figuring out how to maximize credit card rewards can seem intimidating, but it’s really not. There are so many different programs these days that reward you for using credit cards. Whether you’re interested in earning points for travel or getting cash back on your purchases, there’s a program out there for you. If you’re looking for the best program, I highly recommend downloading Shopkick and linking your Visa or MasterCard. In no time at all, you’ll go from a newbie user to an expert at getting your kicks and, most importantly, trading those kicks for gift cards to do even more shopping to maximize your earning potential!

It’s time to get your kicks! Shopkick makes shopping a rewarding experience, helping you truly maximize your credit card rewards. Download the app today and boost your shopping budget! 

Image courtesy of Nattakorn_Maneerat

Find out how you can shop and earn rewards on your phone

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I remember when I was younger, I used to love to go to the mall. Shopping was my favorite hobby, and the mall was the easiest way for me to shop at so many different stores. I don’t want to tell you how old I am, but back then, online shopping was not really as common as it is now. These days, online shopping makes it so I have even more stores to choose from; and, thanks to my phone, these stores are right at my fingertips, wherever I go. 

In fact, some weeks I do more shopping on my phone than I do with my computer or in physical stores. This comes in handy, especially now that I’ve found out how to earn rewards for using my phone when I shop. That’s right! There’s a way to shop and earn rewards on your phone and it’s so simple and convenient.  

How to Earn Rewards on Your Phone

If you want to learn how to earn rewards on your phone, you must first understand that there are many different ways; you have to find the method that works best for you. I have some friends who use their phones to take online surveys to earn extra money. I have other friends who get paid to drive around to certain businesses and use their phones to take pictures of displays. They have the extra time so they don’t mind doing these extra activities, but for someone who’s a little busier, you may want to choose a way to earn rewards doing something you already do. For me, that thing is shopping. 

If shopping is your thing, you should consider downloading your favorite store’s app. Many stores have their own shopping apps that reward you for being a loyal customer. These are great, especially if you tend to go to the same store all the time. But for those of you who enjoy shopping at many different places, you’ll find yourself with tons of shopping apps and no way to keep track of all the points you’ve earned. Fortunately, there’s a solution for that.

Earn Rewards on Your Phone With Shopping Rewards Apps 

learn how to earn rewards on your phoneWhen it comes time to earn rewards on your phone, the best way to do it is with a shopping rewards app. It’s exactly what it sounds like—an app that rewards you for shopping. How most of these apps work is that they give you points for shopping, and for doing other things related to shopping as well, like walking into stores or scanning barcodes.

The best of these apps allow you to earn points for shopping at a variety of stores, online and physical stores. I know these days I really do a ton of shopping directly from my phone, so I need an app that will reward me for that.

The Best Shopping Rewards App

Of all the shopping rewards apps out there, my personal favorite is an app called Shopkick. You can use Shopkick to get rewards for both your in-person and online shopping, which includes shopping you do through your phone. The way Shopkick works is kind of like the system I described above. Shopkick gives you points called “kicks” for many of the tasks associated with shopping such as walking into stores, watching promotional videos, browsing products in-store, and, of course, making purchases. You can also earn kicks without ever having to put down your phone because Shopkick rewards you for shopping on your favorite sites directly through the app and for watching promotional videos. 

You can use Shopkick to get rewards for both your in-person and online shopping, which includes shopping you do through your phone.

Once you’ve earned enough points with Shopkick, you can trade them in for gift cards to do even more shopping! Aside from the rewards, another thing I really love about Shopkick is that it turns shopping into a fun scavenger hunt for points. I’ve always loved shopping, but I look forward to it even more now that I have Shopkick on my phone; I can’t recommend it enough.

Shopkick has changed both the amount of fun I have when I’m out at the store as well as the amount of savings I find myself coming home with. I use it every time I shop and it doesn’t even require much effort because I find myself shopping with my phone in-hand anyway.

If you’re ready to get rewarded for the shopping that you already do, I highly recommend you download the app and earn rewards on your phone. Shopkick makes shopping a rewarding experience no matter where or how you shop! 

Image courtesy of GP Studio

Prime opportunity: How to earn cashback on Amazon purchases

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I had a teacher who once asked our class if there was anything we couldn’t live without. Some of my friends said their phones, others said their video game systems, and some said totally random things like candy. I was one of those who said I couldn’t live without my phone back then, but now that I’m a little older, I’m sure that my answer would be Amazon Prime. 

Whenever I need household things like paper towels or toilet paper, I can place an order through my Amazon Prime account and it comes in two days or less. I even use it to order last-minute gifts that I can always count on being on time for birthdays and holidays. I love that Amazon makes shopping so easy. And, if there’s one thing I love even more than Prime itself, it’s knowing that I can earn cashback on Amazon purchases.

If you’re an avid online shopper like me, you’ll want to read on and learn how to earn cashback on Amazon purchases. 

How to Earn Cashback on Amazon Purchases

Take the Credit Card Route

earn cashback on Amazon purchases

One way to earn cashback on Amazon purchases is to apply for one of the various credit cards offered through Amazon. With the cashback cards, Amazon Prime members can earn up to 5% back on Amazon.com and Whole Foods Market purchases; 2% back at participating restaurants, drug stores, and gas stations; and earn 1% back on all other qualifying purchases using the card. These percentages eventually add up and can equate to dollars to be used on future purchases. If you’re wondering how to calculate, consider that 5% Back equates to $0.05 in % Back rewards, which is equal to 5 points, for each $1 spent. “% Back rewards” are tracked as points and each $1 in % Back rewards earned is equal to 100 points. 

Personally, I love knowing that for as much as I order on Amazon, I’m earning points that will eventually turn into cashback. For those of you who aren’t sure about applying for another credit card, worry not; there’s another way to earn cashback on Amazon purchases.   

Get Familiar With Shopping Rewards Programs

There are many shopping rewards programs out there but not all of them work the same. Many shopping rewards programs reward you for your continued loyalty to one store. For example, you might receive a free cup of coffee after buying ten cups at your favorite coffee shop. But, the best shopping rewards programs can be used at almost any store—including Amazon, of course!     

The Best App to Earn Cashback on Amazon Purchases

If you’ve never used a shopping rewards program before, I actually have a recommendation—it’s an app called Shopkick, and I absolutely love it. You can use Shopkick each time you go out and buy something at the store or online, and it gives you points in return called “kicks.” When you’ve earned enough kicks, you can trade them in for a gift card to a participating store on the list. And you guessed it, Amazon is on the list of stores from which to choose a gift card! And, in my opinion, gift cards are just as good as cashback because they spend just the same.   

What’s also great is that Shopkick turns every trip into the store into a fun hunt for kicks. You can earn kicks for doing things like walking into a store, scanning the barcodes of certain items, and making purchases. And here’s the (Shop)kicker (ha!): You can take your Visa or MasterCard—the same one you use for Amazon—and link it to your Shopkick account to earn kicks at participating stores while also earning points that could go toward earning cashback with Amazon. Now that’s some great earning potential! I just love finding out how many kicks I can earn for doing certain things. Trust me, you will too. 

If you’re looking for a way to earn cashback on Amazon purchases, I highly recommend downloading Shopkick.

If you’re looking for a way to earn cashback on Amazon purchases, I highly recommend downloading Shopkick. You can shop at many of your favorite stores directly through the app. I use it pretty much every day, and the rewards just keep coming. I also have my friends, family, and parents using Shopkick, and they all love it too.

It’s time to get your kicks! Shopkick makes shopping a rewarding experience by helping you earn Amazon gift cards. Download the app today and start earning your own Amazon gift cards now! 

Image courtesy of Nicole Glass Photography