Top 10 Tech Must-Haves for Back to School

It’s back to school season once again, and I can’t be the only one who feels like we were celebrating Memorial Day and the start of summer yesterday! Even though the summer is starting to come to a close, back to school season always feels like its own holiday. I am not heading back to school this year, but I still wanted to get in the spirit of the season. So, I culled through all of the back to school gear to create a top 10 list of tech must-haves for students, especially for high school and college students. Take a look below, and get ready to shop and save on tech this year!

1. Computer/Laptop:

A computer is a must for students. I have tried a number of different brands from HP to Dell, and I have to admit Apple is my favorite. I cannot recommend my Macbook Pro enough (I have a 13”) because it reboots quickly, runs the Adobe programs I started using while in college, and doesn’t need to be replaced for years.

Where to purchase? Best Buy or Apple.com

2. Programs:

Although Macbooks come equipped with Apple programs, I’m still a fan of the Microsoft Office suite. You can purchase your cloud access in store. Make sure to look for the option for Microsoft Office Home & Student because there is a savings.

Where to purchase? Best Buy

3. Calculator:

I still remember purchasing my first scientific calculator in middle school, and it felt like a right of passage. It’s not an inexpensive item, so the best thing to do is to shop for one in store at Best Buy or online at Walmart.com. The prices will likely be comparable, and you will be able to earn kicks toward a gift card which will feel like receiving cash back!

Where to purchase? Best Buy or Walmart.com 

4. Headphones:

Headphones are a must for all students, and they can easily serve many purposes. They’re great to have on hand during the day while studying in the library, going to the gym in between classes, walking around campus, and catching up on your favorite show without interrupting your roommate at night. Bose and Airpods are a few of my go-to options.

Where to purchase? Best Buy or Apple.com, HSN.com, QVC.com, or Walmart.com 

5. Smart Watch:

I haven’t purchased a smart watch yet, but my friends who are in grad school have said they are complete game changers during the school year! Those who have them say it’s helpful to be able to send quick texts back to friends and family on-the-go without having to pull out their phones, track steps to ensure they’re staying active in between classes, and have quick access to favorite apps. Of course, there are plenty of other benefits, like the most basic one of being able to tell time – a key thing to know while taking a test to ensure you complete the exam!

Where to purchase? Best Buy or Apple.com, HSN.com, or Walmart.com

6. Roku TV:

From my experience of purchasing TVs, Roku is definitely the way to go, especially for dorms! Being able to access apps like Hulu, Netflix, Prime Video, and YouTube directly from your TV makes streaming even more fun and simple. The value is definitely there, and friends will definitely want to gather in your room or apartment which makes a great TV an investment in meeting others.

Where to purchase? Best Buy Note: Don’t forget to purchase a subscription to Hulu through your Shopkick app because you will earn kicks!

7. Kindle:

As a communications major, I had plenty of assigned reading for all of my classes. However, I still looked forward to reading a book of my choice at the end of the day. I find I complete books more quickly when I read them on my Kindle, and my Kindle is so lightweight which makes me feel encouraged to slip it into a bag while I’m on the go.

Where to purchase? Amazon Devices

8. Smartphone:

A smartphone is a natural choice for a student! Access to all of the typical capabilities of a phone are obvious, but the addition of apps and email at your fingertips is what makes a smartphone a must-have for high school and college students.

Where to purchase? Best Buy Note: While you can purchase a smartphone at many retailers in store and online, the major perk of Best Buy, outside of your ability to earn kicks, is almost every cell phone company has representatives in stores. Purchasing your phone and signing a new contract at the same time makes the process quicker and easier!

9. Backpack:

A great backpack is a must for every student! In every bag I purchase, I always look for a protected compartment for my computer. Look and size are also important, and I’ve always had great luck with Tumi, Jansport, and The North Face. The quality of all three has always been great, and I’ve been able to transition my bags from high school to college and then to my career without fear of looking too young.

Where to purchase? eBags.com, HSN.com, or Kohls.com

10. Gaming System:

A gaming system might not be an obvious choice for back to school, but it will provide a fun and quick way to make friends in college! A Nintendo Switch offers a great price point and system size. You will also have the advantage of being able to play classic games like Mario Kart and Super Mario Party. Dorm room floor challenge, anyone?

Where to purchase? Best Buy or GameStop.com

Make sure to shop for your tech with Shopkick, so you can earn kicks to redeem for a free gift card. Join the back to school conversation happening now in our Facebook community!

Top Five Mother’s Day Deals

Aren’t moms the best? I think so too! I count down until Mother’s Day every year, and my plans always change slightly. Whether my mom and I set aside time to go to brunch, share a meal with a larger group of family, spend the afternoon reading in her backyard, or plan a complete experience to enjoy, the key thing is we almost always plan something we can do together.

Even if we have something in mind to share together, I typically purchase a little something extra too. So, whether you’re seeing your favorite ladies in person or hoping to send something straight to her door, there is still time to shop and prep before Sunday, May 12.

Today, I thought I would share how you can shop for Mother’s Day and earn big kicks through Shopkick’s Countdown to Mother’s Day! Gift ideas, retailers, and the specifics are all below for you. So, let’s get our Mother’s Day gift on!

LOFT:

Up her style with a gift from LOFT! My mom and I are known for our online shopping, so we were both thrilled when LOFT was announced as a new Shopkick partner. I would describe my style as preppy and feminine, while my mom’s style is more classic and casual. Without fail, we always find something we have to have from LOFT. They have an excellent selection of shorts and t-shirts perfect for summer, their Lou & Grey line is a must-experience, and we’re both fans of their dresses for everyday and events. It’s impossible to go wrong with anything from LOFT!

Nike:

Encourage her fitness journey! Nike has some of the best gear for working out, and you can earn BIG KICKS right now when you shop for Mother’s Day gifts. The warmest months of the year are quickly approaching, so push her to spend more time working out outside with a new pair of sneakers. Add to her workout gear with new athleisure pieces because few things make you feel motivated to work out quite like a new outfit. Whatever you choose, you will be helping her to meet her fitness goals!  

Sam’s Club:

Say “thank you” with essentials! Sometimes the best gift is the feeling of receiving items you truly need. Sam’s Club has nearly everything you could ever need for day-to-day life, thanks to their wide selection of products. Purchase groceries in bulk, outfit her backyard with new furniture, treat her to new beauty products, make her feel loved with jewelry, and so much more. With Shopkick, Sam’s Club is about to feel like your one stop shop for Mother’s Day!

QVC:

Treat her to luxury! QVC is known for their wide assortment of brands and products, and you may be surprised by the sheer volume of brand name pieces you will discover on their site. Think about her wishlist, then pop over to QVC’s site from your Shopkick app. While you’re there, you will discover plenty of ideas from luggage for summer travel to jewelry and bedding.

1800Flowers:

Send her flowers! Moms love receiving flowers, especially when they’re chosen by you. Shop for a bouquet for your favorite lady on 1800Flowers from your Shopkick app and earn kicks! Gifting blooms has never felt better.

Stay tuned for more deals to drop over the next few days. Rumor has it that kicks will be dropping from Sephora, SeatGeek, and Groupon soon! And, a note to all moms – You are loved.

Make sure to download Shopkick for free, and join us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram for more shopping inspiration!

5 Benefits of Shopping with QVC

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

 

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

 

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

 

1. Live Product Demos 

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

 

2. Incredible Selection

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

 

3. Quality & Designer Brands 

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

 

4. Flex Pay Options 

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

 

5. Daily Deals 

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

 

Shopkick + QVC = Major Savings 

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

 

Ready to Shop Smarter This Fall? 

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

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