Amazon has become a go-to shopping platform for everything from groceries to gadgets, clothing to furniture. While its convenience and vast selection are unmatched, the endless options can sometimes lead to overspending. The good news is, with the right strategies, you can stretch your dollar further and save a significant amount on your Amazon purchases.
Whether you’re a frequent shopper or an occasional buyer, here are some of the best, tried-and-true ways to save money on Amazon.
1. Use Amazon Coupons and Deals Pages
Amazon offers a vast section of coupons that many shoppers overlook. These coupons apply to hundreds of categories including groceries, electronics, health products, and more.
How to find them:
- Visit the Amazon Coupons page.
- Browse or search for products you’re interested in.
- Clip the coupon and it will automatically apply at checkout.
Also, don’t forget to check:
- Today’s Deals (includes Lightning Deals, Deal of the Day, and more).
- Warehouse Deals (discounted returned or refurbished items).
- Outlet Deals (overstocked items at reduced prices).
2. Subscribe and Save
For household essentials, pet supplies, personal care, and groceries, Subscribe & Save offers discounts (typically 5%-15%) and free automatic deliveries.
Benefits:
- Discounts get bigger when you subscribe to multiple items.
- You can cancel, skip, or modify deliveries anytime.
- You’ll never run out of essentials like paper towels or vitamins.
3. Track Prices Using Tools like CamelCamelCamel
Amazon prices fluctuate frequently, sometimes several times a day. Use third-party price tracking websites like CamelCamelCamel to:
- View the price history of any product.
- Set alerts to notify you when the price drops.
This ensures you buy when the price is at its lowest, not during price spikes.
4. Join Amazon Prime (But Use It Wisely)
While Amazon Prime costs an annual fee, the perks can save you a lot of money if you shop frequently:
- Free two-day (or even same-day) shipping.
- Access to exclusive deals (including Prime Early Access to Lightning Deals).
- Free streaming services (saving you on entertainment subscriptions).
Tip:
If you’re a student, opt for Prime Student, which offers a free 6-month trial and 50% off the membership fee.
If you’re not a frequent shopper, skip the membership and only subscribe when needed (e.g., during holidays).
5. Use Amazon Credit Cards and Cashback Offers
Amazon offers its own credit cards, such as the Amazon Prime Rewards Visa Card, which gives:
- 5% cashback on Amazon and Whole Foods purchases (if you’re a Prime member).
- 2% at restaurants, gas stations, and drugstores.
- 1% everywhere else.
Additionally, look for bank-specific cashback offers or use apps like Rakuten (Ebates) or Honey, which sometimes offer cashback on Amazon purchases.
6. Opt for No-Rush Shipping
If you don’t need your item immediately, choosing No-Rush Shipping can reward you with:
- Credits for digital purchases (like eBooks, movies, or apps).
- Occasional discounts on future orders.
This is a low-effort way to earn back while still getting your order within a reasonable time frame.
7. Buy Used, Refurbished, or Open-Box Items
Amazon’s Warehouse Deals and Renewed sections offer like-new and refurbished products at steep discounts.
These items are often:
- Customer returns.
- Refurbished with warranties.
- Open-box items with minor packaging damage.
Always read the condition description carefully before purchasing.
8. Check Competitor Prices
Amazon is often competitive, but not always the cheapest. Use price comparison tools or apps like Google Shopping, ShopSavvy, or PriceGrabber to quickly compare Amazon prices with other retailers.
Sometimes buying directly from the brand website or competitors like Walmart or Best Buy can be cheaper — especially when they offer free shipping or coupons.
9. Use Amazon Gift Cards Strategically
Consider:
- Buying discounted Amazon gift cards from reputable gift card reselling sites.
- Taking surveys on platforms like Swagbucks, which offer Amazon gift cards as rewards.
This can turn your spare time into small savings for future Amazon purchases.
10. Avoid Impulse Buying — Use the Cart or Wish List Tactic
Avoiding instant purchases is one of the most underrated savings hacks.
- Add items to your cart or wish list and wait 24-48 hours.
- This gives you time to reconsider, look for better deals, or even wait for price drops.
11. Look for Lightning Deals and Treasure Truck Offers
Amazon’s Lightning Deals offer limited-time discounts, often on popular or trending products. These sell out fast, so act quickly if you see something you need.
Additionally, sign up for Amazon Treasure Truck notifications — surprise offers on exclusive or hard-to-find items at discounted prices.
12. Utilize Amazon Business for Bulk Purchases
If you run a small business or need to buy in bulk, Amazon Business offers:
- Quantity discounts.
- Business-only pricing.
- Easier expense tracking.
You don’t need to be a big company to benefit.
Conclusion
Amazon is packed with opportunities to save — but only if you shop smart. From leveraging coupons, Subscribe & Save, and cashback options, to price tracking and avoiding impulse buying, these strategies can shave off a significant portion of your shopping bill.
Remember, Amazon makes it easy to buy, but with a few mindful steps, you can make sure you’re always getting the best deal possible.