Smart Ways to Save Money While Shopping With Friends

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, browsing the mall, or grabbing Starbucks between stores, these tricks have made all the difference.

Here are eight easy ways to save money while shopping with friends:

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. Plus, it 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 rewards apps, you can earn points (or even gift cards) for everyday purchases. Then, you can use those rewards on more fun outings with your friends. Shopkick makes this easy — scan, shop, and earn rewards just for doing what you already do.

3. Save on Coffee Stops

My Starbucks habit is real — so finding ways to save on it is a must. Loyalty programs, credit card perks, and apps like Shopkick can help you score your next cup for free. That’s more energy for shopping, and fewer dents in your budget.

It may sound basic, but setting a budget before heading out is a game changer. My friends and I often talk about our spending limits ahead of time and help each other stick to them. That way, we still have fun — and skip the regret later.

5. Watch Videos and Earn Rewards

Yes, you really can earn rewards just for watching videos. I do this while waiting in line, during breakfast, or winding down at night. It only takes a minute or two, but the rewards add up fast — and they’re perfect for treating yourself.

Gone are the days of digging for paper coupons. Today’s digital coupon apps make saving quick and simple. Just open the app at checkout, apply your deals, and enjoy the savings. It’s one of the easiest ways to stretch your budget on the spot.

7. Join Loyalty Programs

If you frequent stores like Target, Walmart, Starbucks, or Best Buy, joining their loyalty programs is a no-brainer. You’ll earn points, get access to member-only deals, and sometimes even snag birthday freebies — all for shopping like you normally do.

8. Use Shopkick (My Favorite!)

Of all the apps I’ve tried, Shopkick is hands-down my favorite. It rewards you for everyday activities like walking into stores, scanning items, watching videos, and making purchases — in-store and online. You can even earn kicks (Shopkick’s reward points) from your couch.

My whole shopping crew uses it now, and we love trading in our kicks for gift cards to places like Amazon, Ulta, and yes — Starbucks. It makes every trip more rewarding.