As the holiday shopping season approaches, savvy shoppers are already gearing up for the best deals on Amazon. With Black Friday and Cyber Monday just around the corner, it’s the perfect time to explore ways to maximize your savings. Whether you’re a seasoned Amazon shopper or just getting started, here are eight effective strategies to help you save money on your next order.
Utilize Points with “Shop with Points”
One of the lesser-known features at Amazon checkout is the “Shop with Points” option. If you have an American Express card, you might be eligible to use your Membership Rewards points to save on your purchases. While redeeming points for travel often yields better value, certain promotions allow you to save a significant percentage on your Amazon order by using just a few points.
For instance, some American Express cardholders have reported saving between 10% and 40% on their Amazon purchases by using as little as one Membership Rewards point. To take advantage of this, ensure your eligible Amex card is linked to your Amazon account and keep an eye out for targeted offers.
Earn Bonus Points with Amex Offers
If you’re an American Express cardholder, regularly check your Amex account for targeted offers that can help you earn bonus points or save money on Amazon purchases. These offers vary by account and can provide significant savings on items you were already planning to buy.
For example, if you see an offer that gives you 5 points per dollar spent at Amazon, that’s equivalent to earning 10% back on your purchases. Cards like the Blue Cash Everyday® Card and the Hilton Honors American Express Card are great options that come with no annual fees, making them accessible for most shoppers.
Consider an Amazon Credit Card
For frequent Amazon shoppers, the Amazon Prime Visa card is a fantastic option. This card offers 5% cash back on Amazon and Whole Foods purchases, along with other benefits like a $200 Amazon gift card upon approval. While it’s only available to Prime members, the rewards can quickly add up, especially during sales events.
If you’re not a Prime member, weigh the benefits of signing up against the cost of the membership. The cash back and savings on shipping can often offset the membership fee, making it a worthwhile investment for avid Amazon users.
Don’t Forget to Use Coupons
It may seem obvious, but using coupons on Amazon can lead to significant savings. When browsing, look for items that have a “Coupon” icon below the price. Clicking on this icon activates the coupon, which can save you anywhere from a few cents to several dollars.
Additionally, consider subscribing to items for repeat deliveries. This often comes with a discount, allowing you to save even more on essentials.
Track Prices and Set Alerts
To ensure you’re getting the best deal, consider using price tracking tools like CamelCamelCamel. This website allows you to view the historical price of items on Amazon and set alerts for price drops. If you’re not in a rush to make a purchase, this can be a great way to wait for a better deal.
By monitoring price trends, you can make informed decisions about when to buy, ensuring you never pay more than necessary.
Get Credit for No-Rush Shipping
If you can afford to wait for your items, opting for no-rush shipping can earn you credits for future digital purchases. During checkout, you’ll have the option to select this shipping method, which can earn you credits that can be used for e-books, music, videos, and apps.
While the credit amount can vary, it often totals a couple of dollars, which can add up over time. Additionally, if you choose to pick up your order at an Amazon Hub, you may receive promotional credits as well.
Sign Up for a Free Amazon Prime Trial
If you’re not already a Prime member, consider signing up for a free 30-day trial. This trial gives you access to free two-day shipping on eligible items, as well as Prime Video and other benefits. If you find that you enjoy the service, you can continue with a paid membership.
However, if you decide it’s not for you, just remember to cancel before the trial ends to avoid any charges.
Purchase Amazon Gift Cards Strategically
If your credit cards don’t offer rewards for Amazon purchases, consider buying Amazon gift cards at grocery stores that do. For example, if you purchase a $100 Amazon gift card using a card that offers 6% cash back at supermarkets, you’ll earn $6 in rewards.
This strategy allows you to maximize your rewards while still shopping at Amazon, making it a smart move for budget-conscious shoppers.
Final Thoughts
With these eight strategies, you can significantly reduce your spending on Amazon, especially during the busy holiday shopping season. From utilizing points and coupons to tracking prices and strategically using credit cards, there are numerous ways to save money while shopping online.
As you prepare for Black Friday and Cyber Monday, keep these tips in mind to ensure you’re getting the best deals possible. Happy shopping!ShareRegenerateCopyDeleteEditHide Content
