Nashia Baker is a commerce editor at Hearst Magazines; she covers all things home and lifestyle across brands such as Oprah Daily, Cosmopolitan, Delish, and Esquire. Before joining Hearst, she highlighted small business owners, creatives, and the best shoppable content.
Inside: Balancing a shoestring budget is possible and provides great rewards. With savings and budget strategies, you will find genius tips to manage your finances smartly!
With the rise of economic inflation, a growing number of people are finding the need for shoestring budgets to effectively navigate through their expenses.
Whether it’s planning for a low-cost holiday, initiating a frugal home makeover, or launching a start-up business with minimalist funds, the concept of a shoestring budget comes into play.
Moreover, it’s not only limited to low-income families but also extends to larger households and entrepreneurs that need to strategically lessen costs to achieve their goals. This is how many people reach financial independence sooner.
Then, let’s talk about a shoestring budget – an effective tool used to stretch finite resources, manage money wisely, and achieve financial goals, all while minimizing expenses.
If you’re familiar with the feeling of every dollar in your wallet counting, then this blog post is for you.
This post may contain affiliate links, which helps us to continue providing relevant content and we receive a small commission at no cost to you. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. Please read the full disclosure here.
What is a Shoestring Budget?
A ‘shoestring budget’ means to accomplish a task or a project within a very limited or bare minimum budget. The shoestring budget work strategy involves curbing discretionary spending dramatically to take care of high-priority expenses.
Understood across various contexts like travel, events, and lifestyle, the term implies an approach of resourcefulness and discovery of low-cost alternatives to achieve desired results.
Not exclusive to households with low incomes, working with a shoestring budget expresses the art of making what’s deemed impossible possible, navigating time constraints, and maximizing minimal available funds.
Shoestring Budget Idiom Definition
According to Merriam-Webster, the official definition of a shoestring budget is: 1
“involving a relatively small amount of money for planned spending.”
‘Shoestring Budget’ Origin
The phrase ‘shoestring budget’ has an intriguing origin story that dates back to the 1800s in the United States. Fact-checks reveal that this term is indeed a reference to the precarious nature of a thin and weak shoestring, metaphorically implying a scarce and strained budget.2
Several theories have been proposed regarding its original use.
One theory suggests that the term ‘shoestring gambler,’ meaning someone gambling with a limited budget, might be the precursor to the idiom.
Another theory, based on British history, suggests that prisoners would lower a shoestring out of their cell to collect small donations from passersby, symbolizing the idea of managing with few resources.
Despite the debates around the phrase’s exact origins, it is undisputed that it signifies a tight budget situation.
How to live on a shoestring budget?
Living on a shoestring budget can be challenging but doable with a bit of dedication and planning.
Start by reviewing your regular expenses per month.
Cut down on unnecessary expenses as much as possible.
Monitor your small, daily expenses as they can add up significantly over time.
Refinance any existing debt to reduce interest payments.
Renegotiate contracts with utility providers, subscription services (consider uninstalling unused ones), or insurance for better rates.
Shop at thrift stores or choosing used items over brand new can also help you save.
The key to surviving a shoestring budget is self-control and determination to avoid impulsive spending.
Your goal is to prioritize essential needs over wants – a no spend challenge will help you with this. Remember, regular tracking and analysis of your personal site usage can provide valuable insights to manage your budget better.
How to travel on a shoestring budget?
Embarking on an adventure while on a shoestring budget requires creativity and pre-planning.
Be flexible with your travel dates, destinations, and mode of transport to take advantage of the best deals available.
Consider options such as budget airlines, off-peak travel times, and less touristy locations.
Staying in budget accommodations, or even trying out housesitting, can significantly cut down your lodging costs.
Eating at local fresh markets rather than restaurants will not only save you money but also provide a more authentic experience.
Plan your daily activities; consider free local events, parks, and attractions.
Always carry a water bottle to avoid buying expensive drinks.
With careful planning, traveling on a shoestring budget can make your journey all the more rewarding and memorable.
How to Save Money on a shoestring budget?
Saving money while on a shoestring budget might appear challenging, but it’s not impossible. Begin by monitoring your expenditures and identifying areas where you can potentially save money. Also, consider substituting costly activities with more affordable or free ones.
Every small action counts when you’re on a shoestring budget, and these savings accumulate over time. Remember, consistent small savings can make a significant difference in the long run.
Starting a business on a shoestring budget
Starting a business on a shoestring budget requires careful financial planning and innovative thinking. Indeed, it may sound challenging, but numerous shoestring startups have surged to success by optimizing their business budgets. It is all about crafting a solid business plan that clearly delineates your budget and the efficient utilization of each dollar.
Maintain focus on essential expenses only. These expenses might include mandatory licenses, essential software for business operations, or even crucial industry-specific tools. Leverage your personal and professional networks for free advice and resources.
Also, make the most of free or low-cost online marketing strategies as these can be vital to shoestring business budgets. You can use effective strategies, like using different social media platforms for marketing or creating a blog, to broaden the reach of your business.
Remember, having the capital to start is important but it’s secondary to a truly novel idea, intense hard work, and a strategic approach. So, let your creativity thrive and work passionately towards growing your business.
Shoestring Budget Examples
Shoestring Vacation
Wedding or Honeymoon
Home Improvement
Business on a Shoestring Startups
Savings Goals
Financing your Next Car
A shoestring budget is not always related to bigger projects. It can also refer to the scenario where the money required for daily expenses, buying an item, or completing a project isn’t enough. Here, the person has to be creative and find ways to stretch the money to make ends meet.
Practical Tips for Surviving on a Shoestring Budget
In this section, we will present practical advice for managing a shoestring budget, derived from case studies of my readers and my own personal experience who have thrived despite financial limitations.
Whether you are budgeting on a low income or looking to reach FI number faster, this guide has you covered.
1. Starting with a Budget: Your First Step
Before you embark on your journey of living on a shoestring budget, the first step is to define a realistic budget.
Understand your total earnings and list all your monthly expenses.
Identify which expenses are necessary (rent, utilities, groceries) and which are discretionary (eating out, entertainment).
Now create a spending plan such that it covers all necessities, allocates some amount towards savings, and leaves a little for leisure.
A well-defined budget will be your roadmap to financial management success.
Remember, the goal is to live within your means but also to ensure you aren’t depriving yourself.
2. Make Saving Automatic
A proven way to save money on a shoestring budget is to make saving automatic.
In such a method, you can set up an automatic transfer when you get paid. Another idea is to use Acorns, which rounds up purchases made with your debit card to the nearest dollar and deposits the change daily into your savings account.
Essentially, you’re saving without even noticing it! These little amounts add up over a period and can really bolster your savings.
Acorns
Invest spare change, invest while you bank, earn bonus investments, grow your knowledge and more.
Every purchase you make means an opportunity to invest your spare change! So coffee for $3.25 becomes a $0.75 investment in your future.
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3. Cut Back on Expenses
One of the most effective ways to operate within a shoestring budget is by reducing expenses. These can be small lifestyle changes, like cutting back on takeaways and preparing meals at home, walking or cycling instead of driving short distances or canceling unused subscriptions.
Specifically, you are looking to cut back your flexible expenses the most.
4. Look for Ways to Make Extra Money
Alongside cutting back on expenses, we continually stress the importance of finding ways to supplement your income. This could be from a side hustle, passive income, part-time job, or even a pay raise.
This additional income can help ease pressure on your shoestring budget. Also, it might provide an opportunity to explore new interests or passions. By diversifying your income streams, you make your financial situation more secure and flexible in unexpected circumstances.
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5. Utilize Free Resources
When it comes to saving money on a shoestring budget, the key is to utilize free resources and focus on essentials before spending money.
Thankfully, there are many vital ways to do this:
Find free things to do without spending money.
Use your local Buy Nothing group to find items before spending your hard-earned cash.
Learn and enhance your skills through free or low-cost online platforms like Udemy, Coursera, and YouTube.
Leveraging such resources can have a significant impact on your budget, leading to substantial savings for other meaningful expenses.
6. Look for Deals and Coupons
Another wise strategy when operating on a shoestring budget is seeking out deals and using coupons whenever possible. This game-changing approach can be applied to your grocery budget, dining, clothing purchases, and even travel.
Search for coupons in newspapers, magazines, or on coupon websites. Perhaps, subscribe to newsletters from your favorite retailers, a move that will provide straightforward access to information about sales and discount codes. Be mindful while shopping online or in stores, and always remember to rein in impulses, checking for any available discounts before purchasing.
Moreover, take advantage of holiday sales or Amazon Prime Day for larger purchases. Taking a little extra time to hunt for the best deals can significantly cut down your expenses and help you stick to your shoestring budget.
7. Utilize Household Resources
Leveraging what you already have in your household is another fantastic way to save money.
For instance, before running to the grocery store, take stock of what’s in your pantry and design meals around these items.
Also, consider repurposing and upcycling household items. An old ladder can turn into a chic bookshelf; jars can be used for storage.
Optimizing utility usage by switching off lights when not in use and limiting water usage can also reduce bills.
Start treating everything in your house as a resource with a specific purpose and value, including leftover food, old clothes, and used furniture. Every household item utilized efficiently can add up to visible savings over time.
8. Get Rid of Unnecessary Expenses
Perhaps the most crucial aspect of managing a shoestring budget is identifying and eliminating unnecessary expenses. These could include subscriptions to magazines or online services that you hardly use, dining out frequently, or buying expensive coffee daily.
Analyze where your money is going every month. You’d be surprised how the smallest changes can have a big impact on your budget. Eliminating even a few unnecessary monthly expenses can add up to substantial yearly savings.
Remember, the key is not to deprive yourself of everything but to find that balance between living comfortably and within your means.
9. Reduce Your Monthly Rent or Mortgage Payment
Want to slash a significant expense of your shoestring budget by considering ways to reduce your rent or mortgage payments? Could you move to a more affordable area or a smaller property?
For homeowners, look at refinancing your mortgage or negotiate better terms, resulting in lower monthly payments. Always remember to check if any fees would apply before proceeding with refinancing.
If relocation isn’t an option, consider renting out a spare room in your home or offering it on a vacation rental site.
If you are a renter, look at becoming a permanent housesitter.
Lowering these substantial expenses can make a huge difference in your budget, allowing you to allocate funds to other pressing areas, save, or even invest in building wealth.
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10. Be Creative When Paying Bills
When managing a shoestring budget, it can be helpful to get creative with the way you pay your bills. Sometimes, splitting payments between paychecks or paying on certain days can make managing your budget easier.
You could also consider bill negotiation services or check if you qualify for reduced rates based on your income. If meeting all payments becomes too strenuous, communicate with your service providers about it. They may have hardship programs or payment plans to assist during tough financial periods.
Remember, the key is to avoid late fees or penalties that could further strain your budget.
11. Leverage Technology to Save Time and Money
Make the most of technology to manage your shoestring budget. There are numerous mobile apps and online resources to help you track your expenditures, save money, pay bills, and even invest.
Budgeting apps can help you keep track of your income and expenditure, warn you when you’re nearing your limit, and provide valuable insight into your spending habits. Digital wallets can help you make secure transactions without the fear of losing cash.
Moreover, there are apps and websites to compare prices of different products, get the best deal alerts, apply instant coupons, or even earn cashback like Rakuten.
Quicken
Personal finance and money management software allows you to manage spending, create monthly budgets, track investments, retirement and more.
I have used this platform for over 20 years now.
Pros:
Birds-eye view of your complete financial picture.
Conveniently download your spending activities, and automatically categorize them (Quicken connects to over 14,000 financial institutions).
Track investments with it’s features like portfolio analytics, retirement goals, and market comparison.
Cons:
Little complex to use at first, the learning curve is moderate.
Yearly subscription-based model to use the platform.
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12. Participate in a Mini Savings Challenge
As a fun and effective way to boost your savings, consider embarking on a mini savings challenge! These challenges break the intimidating concept of saving into manageable, small steps. They can vary based on duration and the amount you’re aiming to save.
For example, in a 52-week challenge, you save $1 in the first week, $2 in the second, and so on, until you’re saving $52 in the 52nd week. By the end of the year, you’ll have saved $1,378!
Not only does it make saving fun, but it also allows you to develop a consistent saving habit, crucial when budgeting on a shoestring.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
If you’re fortunate enough to have a budget that’s more than a shoestring, the principles discussed still apply. Having more resources doesn’t mean you should ignore opportunities to save and invest wisely.
So, whether your budget is minimal or ample, consider adopting these healthy financial habits to achieve your financial goals. Make sure to sock away any extra money into a savings or investment account so you aren’t tempted to spend it.
Starting to invest on a small budget involves several key strategies. You must pay yourself first each and every time you are paid.
Set up an auto savings plan through a high interest savings account to make sure you start earning interest.
Contribute enough to your 401(k) to take full advantage of your employer’s match, if available, and consider mutual funds with an initial investment as low as $500.
Pick one solid company wherein you believe data and financials are stable enough to invest in, and buy 1 share.
If you receive a work or tax refund bonus, allocate it towards your investments instead of immediate spending.
Key Takeaways: Managing Money Well on a Tight Budget
Managing finances on a shoestring budget can be a daunting task, but with the right strategies in place, it can become a way to achieve financial health.
This is something I did when I was a stay-at-home mom looking for ways to make money.
In the grand scheme of things, managing a shoestring budget is less about the money and more about your mindset. Yes, limited resources can present challenges, but your attitude and creativity can make a difference.
Embracing frugality, taking control of your financial choices, and building resourceful strategies can turn your constraints into opportunities.
Money comes and goes, but the ability to manage it effectively is a life skill that will always be beneficial. The real wealth lies in your ability to live within your means and make the most of what you have – turning your shoestring budget into a stepping stone towards financial independence and stability.
Remember, every journey starts small.
Day by day, these tips can help you improve your financial stability and achieve your goals, regardless of your budget size.
Source
Merriam-Webster. “on a small/tight/shoestring budget.” https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/on%20a%20small%2Ftight%2Fshoestring%20budget. Accessed December 5, 2023.
Grammarist. “Shoestring Budget – A Creative Expression for Limited Money.” https://grammarist.com/idiom/on-a-shoestring-and-shoestring-budget/. Accessed December 5, 2023.
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While everyone else is out there getting ready for Halloween, we’re over here celebrating Way Day! It’s Wayfair’s biggest sale of the year, and it ends tonight. Put away your pumpkins and cancel your costume party, because we have more pressing priorities at hand! Right now, take up to 80% off top-selling furniture and decor at Wayfair. You do not want to miss these flash deals!
Since the holidays are on the horizon, we decided to focus on holiday home decor deals from Way Day. Below are the best bargains, from Christmas trees to Hanukkah candles. Get into the holiday spirit with these festive finds from Wayfair!
Christmas Trees & Wreaths
Hang a shining star upon the highest bough, and have yourself a merry little Christmas now! These Christmas trees and wreaths will make your home feel cheerful and cozy.
Holiday Lights
What a bright time, it’s the right time to rock the night away! May your days be merry and bright with these festive holiday lights.
Hanukkah Decorations
Hanukkah, oh Hanukkah, come light the menorah! This porcelain menorah is absolutely gorgeous — coastal chic and classic.
Classic Accent Pieces
Let it snow, let it snow, let it snow! This cute snowman will greet your guests with a smile.
Not done shopping? See more of our favorite products below:
11 Best Amazon Prime Day 2023 Holiday Decor Deals
The Best Amazon Holiday Beauty Haul High-End Deals
36 Last-Minute Amazon Halloween Deals That Will Arrive In Time
See more Us Weekly Shopping
This post is brought to you by Us Weekly’s Shop With Us team. The Shop With Us team aims to highlight products and services our readers might find interesting and useful, such as wedding-guest outfits, purses, plus-size swimsuits, women’s sneakers, bridal shapewear, and perfect gift ideas for everyone in your life. Product and service selection, however, is in no way intended to constitute an endorsement by either Us Weekly or of any celebrity mentioned in the post.
The Shop With Us team may receive products free of charge from manufacturers to test. In addition, Us Weekly receives compensation from the manufacturer of the products we write about when you click on a link and then purchase the product featured in an article. This does not drive our decision as to whether or not a product or service is featured or recommended. Shop With Us operates independently from the advertising sales team. We welcome your feedback at [email protected]. Happy shopping!
Inside: Discover a treasure trove of savings during Amazon Prime Days 2023! Maximize your budget, snag the best bargains, and embark on the journey of a financially savvy shopper.
In the pursuit of Money Bliss, making thoughtful and strategic purchasing decisions is key.
If you’ve been eyeing that item on your wishlist or contemplating a purchase that aligns with your needs, Amazon Prime Days might just be the opportune moment to turn that desire into a savvy financial decision.
Amazon Prime Days offers a limited-time chance to acquire the items you need while keeping a firm grip on your budget.
So, go ahead, explore the Prime Day deals, and let the thrill of savings elevate your journey toward financial well-being.
Remember, it’s not just about what you buy—it’s about how wisely you buy it.
Make sure you scroll all of the way to the bottom of this post! I captured ideas from real people on what they want for the Amazon Prime Days 2023!
Happy shopping!
When Are Amazon Prime Days 2023?
Amazon Prime Days 2023 are October 10 and October 11.
Why Shop Amazon Prime Days?
Here’s why navigating the digital aisles during Amazon’s annual shopping extravaganza can be a brilliant move for your wallet and your quest for savings.
1. Irresistible Discounts:
Amazon Prime Days are synonymous with jaw-dropping discounts and deals. Whether it’s electronics, home essentials, or personal care items, the prices often take a dip that’s hard to resist.
This presents a golden opportunity to snag that coveted item you’ve been eyeing at a significantly lower cost, instantly contributing to your maximizing savings.
2. Strategic Timing for Big Purchases:
If your intended purchase is a substantial one—perhaps a new gadget, appliance, or even furniture—Amazon Prime Days provides a strategic window for major savings.
By aligning your buying decision with this event, you can make that big-ticket item more budget-friendly, helping you stay on track with your financial goals.
3. Bundled Offers and Exclusive Launches:
Amazon Prime Days often come with exclusive launches and bundled offers. Whether it’s a combination deal on related products or early access to new releases, these perks can enhance the overall value of your purchase.
By capitalizing on these special offerings, you not only save money but also potentially gain more for your investment.
Special pricing will only be reflected during Amazon Prime Days. As deals are dropping every five minutes!
4. Prime Day-Exclusive Benefits:
Being a Prime member comes with its own set of privileges, and Prime Days amplify these benefits.
From lightning deals to free shipping, the exclusivity of these discounts adds an extra layer of value to your purchases.
Deals start early for Amazon Prime Members too!
5. Kickstart Your Holiday Shopping:
For the savvy planner, Amazon Prime Days serve as an excellent opportunity to jumpstart your holiday shopping. Or finish up your Christmas shopping like my friend, Kaitlyn.
By taking advantage of discounted prices during this event, you can spread out your expenses and avoid the last-minute holiday shopping rush, ensuring a stress-free and budget-friendly festive season.
This post may contain affiliate links, which helps us to continue providing relevant content and we receive a small commission at no cost to you. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. Please read the full disclosure here.
Popular Amazon Prime day Deals
Best Seller
TMY Mini Projector
The V08 mini projector includes a 100″ projection screen that is tailored to meet your needs. Set up your own home theater anywhere to watch movies, TV shows, photos, slide shows, and play video games.
Another hot family Christmas gift!
Buy Now on Amazon
Get Prime Day Deal
10/24/2023 12:02 am GMT
Spoil Yourself with These
My Favorite
Prime Day Deals For Home
Kitchen Steals
Most Wished For
50-piece Food storage Containers Set
$44.99 $39.99
These containers are refrigerator, freezer, microwave safe, stain-resistant and dishwasher safe, making cleaning a breeze.
Perfect for portion sizing and includes sticky labels and a chalk pen for great for kitchen & pantry organization and storage.
Buy Now on Amazon
Get Prime Day Deal
10/24/2023 04:47 am GMT
Fashion Steals
Popular Item
Fitness Items You Have Been Eyeing
With Kids
For Our Treasured Pets
For School
Travel Essentials
When You Can’t Find it in Your Buy Nothing Group
Okay, I asked my local Buy Nothing Group what the most wanted items they wanted on Amazon Prime Days and they let me know. Here are a few of their wants.
And if you don’t know what a Buy Nothing group is… It is a local group focused on ways to give away, lend, or share anything to keep it out of landfills! You can find your local group on Facebook.
Popular Want
Thule Universal Ski & Snowboard Rack
$199.95 $175.00
Thule Universal Snowsport Carrier Fully locking rooftop snowsport carrier holds skis and boards securely with ultra-soft rubber arms that grip without scratching the surfaces.
Thule is a great product and rarely is discounted!
Buy Now on Amazon
10/24/2023 07:47 am GMT
Because You Need to Stock up
Time to Shop Those Amazon Prime Days Before They Are GONE!
As the curtain falls on Amazon Prime Days 2023, seize the moment and secure the deals that beckon to your savvy shopper’s soul.
The virtual aisles are teeming with savings, and the time is ripe to claim what your budget permits.
Remember, the thrill of a great deal lingers far longer than the sting of an impulse purchase.
So, shop wisely my friends, prioritize your needs, and relish the joy of snagging the best bargains.
Make sure you act swiftly before the deals vanish into the digital abyss, and may your purchases bring not just instant gratification but lasting Money Bliss.
Happy shopping, frugal budget maestros!
Now, All of the Amazon Insider Information:
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When you think of chic statement pieces and finishing touches, Amazon is probably last on your list. Considering all the other homeware stores, a behemoth multinational best known for cheap plastic gadgets and air fryers simply isn’t as appealing.
I won’t lie to you – there’s a lot of cheap, tacky furniture and decor on Amazon. However, you can find some hidden gems with a little effort. In fact, Amazon is one of my go-to retailers for home decor because you can find amazing deals. What’s more, thanks to Amazon Prime, items also ship super fast, which always comes in handy when I’m refreshing my space for the fall and holiday seasons.
Amazon Prime Big Deals Days are almost here, bringing big discounts on a wide range of products. Our product testers have found some Amazon Prime Day deals that can save you hundreds of dollars. However, these offers are only for Amazon Prime members, and we’ve also seen some counter-sales from other big retailers. If you want to head straight to the deals, here’s what’s on offer:
Amazon Prime Vacuum Deals: we’ve seen up to 60% off vacuum brands like Bissell, Dyson, Shark and more
Amazon Prime Bedding Deals: more than 70% off sheets, mattresses, and headboards
Amazon Prime Blender Deals: we’ve found more than $250 off blender brands like Vitamix, Nutribullet, Ninja and more
Amazon Prime Air Fryer Deals: there’s more than $200 off air fryer brands like Instant, Ninja, Cosori and more
Amazon Prime Coffee Maker Deals: up to 50% off brands like Keurig, Nespresso, De’Longhi and Casabrews
Amazon Prime Stand Mixer Deals: more than 30% off brands like KitchenAid, Cuisinart, and more
Best Buy Outlet Event : 50% off refurbished appliances and tech
Walmart Shark Days: hundreds of dollars off a range of Shark products
Kitchen and Tablescapes
If you’re looking for accent pieces for your tablescape or need a new fruit bowl, you’ll find lots of decor options on Amazon. The marketplace is my go-to for stocking up on candlestick holders as well as centerpiece vases, fruit bowls, table linens, and more.
BlossoME Antique Ceramic White Vase
LOKUME Set of 12 Gold Candlestick Holders
Denique Yellow Ceramic Fruit Bowl
Was $39.99, now $36.99 at Amazon Every kitchen needs a fruit bowl, and I love the idea of incorporating something fun, sculptural, and a little unexpected. This ceramic fruit bowl boasts a gorgeous yellow glaze that adds a touch of sunshine to your abode. I love how it sits on a pedestal, too, which makes it feel more like a fruit display rather than a fruit bowl.
Furniture
Similar to the likes of IKEA, Wayfair, and Target, Amazon is home to a variety of furniture finds. I love Amazon because you can find budget-friendly options that don’t sacrifice comfort or quality, making it a good place to find trendy accent pieces.
Karl Home Accent Chair Mid-Century Modern Chair
$135.99 at Amazon Accent chairs are one of my favorite types of furniture to find on Amazon. There are seriously so many good options, including dupes. For a classic mid-century modern accent chair, I love this style from Karl Home. It comes in several colors, including a gorgeous cream beige that goes with just about anything.
WILLIAMSPACE 129″ Sectional Sofa Couch
$1,449.99 at Amazon Amazon is also a great place to find cloud couch alternative, and this soft from WILLIAMSPACE is one of my favorites. For $2500 less than the original, this sectional features a U-shaped design with six modules that you can swap around to create a custom style.
LKTART Modern Imitation Rattan Coffee Table
Dough Bowl For Decor
BlossoME Ceramic Vase Home Decor
Marycele Candle Warmer Lamp
Was $45.99, now $29.99 at Amazon If you love candles but don’t want to light them, you can still reap the aromatic benefits with a candle warmer. This option features a built-in fairy lamp with a glass shade and chic brass and wood base that would look stunning with interiors featuring the eclectic vintage aesthetic.
Throw Pillows and Blankets
Accent pillows and throw blankets are some of my favorite ways to switch up my decor from season to season. I always find stylish options on Amazon and particularly love how you can purchase packs of pillow covers vs. stuffed pillows, which makes storing them from season to season much easier.
Was $49.99, now $42.49 at Amazon Chunky knit blankets are one of the most popular home decor trends this year. If you don’t have the time to knit one yourself, you can get a gorgeous handmade throw blanket for under $50 at Amazon. The Adyrescia Chunky Knit Blanket Throw is made from chenille and comes in several different sizes, so you can add one to your couch or bed and even keep one folded up in your office for chilly mornings.
Was $138.99, now $117.99 at Amazon This trendy arch mirror boasts major vintage vibes but at a fraction of the cost. The chic arched mirror comes in several colors, including brass, cream, and black and four different sizes, so you can easily find an option that fits in virtually any space, including a bedroom, entryway, bathroom, or living room.
FAQs
When are the Amazon Prime Big Deal Days?
Prime Big Deal Days will run from October10th-11th, offering big discounts on a wide range of products.
Do you need to be a Prime member to shop Prime Big Deal Days?
Yes. Only Amazon Prime members can receive these discounts. Membership costs $14.99 a month.
Decor isn’t the only thing that will be on sale at Amazon. There’s plenty of vacuum deals, bedding deals, and air fryer deals throughout the event, as well as savings on tech.
We know what you’re thinking: Is it too soon to start thinking about winter holiday decor? The short answer: Absolutely not, especially since it’s the last day of Amazon’s massive Prime Big Deal Days sale event. That means this is your last chance to save big on home decor.
Luckily, we took the time to look through every single deal and bring you a careful edit of the top holiday home decor essentials markdowns you can’t miss. Get ready to save on mantel statement pieces, outdoor decor, and beyond. Check out our top 13 picks below.
Our Top Amazon Prime Day Deal Picks on Holiday Decor
Sanjicha Lighted Birch Tree Two-Pack
These battery-powered, little birch trees will give your living space a warm glow and help foster a festive atmosphere instantly. Keep them together on either side of your mantel, or use one as a centerpiece and the other for your entryway.
Ivenf Christmas Outdoor Porch Sign Set
If you’re looking for traditional outdoor decorations beyond string lights, consider this two-piece porch sign set. The larger lettering on the traditional tartan print will add a playful touch to your patio or front porch.
National Tree Company Pre-Lit Artificial Christmas Garland
This pre-styled artificial garland will do the heavy lifting for you regarding greenery and lighting. The 9-foot garland is clustered with pine cones and berries and pre-strung with lights, so all you have to do is find a place for it and plug it in.
Kwaiffeo Meteor Shower Lights
Give your outdoor space a charmingly whimsical flair with the Kwaifeo Meteor Shower Lights. The cascade of white LEDs gives a breathtaking visual of bright icicles or falling lights for a low-maintenance outdoor decoration that brings the holiday spirit to life.
Aetegit Christmas Pillow Covers
An easy way to awaken the Christmas spirit inside your home is by refreshing interiors. Swiftly update your space with this four-piece set of throw pillow covers that showcase different cheery messages and phrases.
Neilden Three-Piece Gnome Decor
Bring the adorable gnomes out to play when you need to give your space an extra joyful vibe. Each of these gnomes is about 20 inches tall and are easy to move around, so you can have them by the presents under the tree one day and by the window sill the next.
Oriental Cherry Floating Candles
You may recall the floating candles from the magical world of Harry Potter, but now they’re fit to bring into your living or dining room for a truly magical experience. A wand controller powers them too, making it more convenient to turn them on and off.
Puhong Outdoor Star String Lights
Hang this tree-shaped light display right outside your home to add some Christmas cheer outdoors. The string lights can work as a perfect backdrop for the rest of your outdoor holiday decor or stand alone as an eye-catching focal piece.
Runleo Snowflake String Lights
Is it really Christmas time without snowflakes—even artificial ones? Invite the winter delight of the outdoors inside with this enchanting set of string lights. Use them to line a doorway or to wrap around your Christmas tree.
Funpeny Lighted Gift Boxes
Stick these gorgeous lighted gift boxes under your tree for an elevated ambiance. They’ll make a beautiful statement, especially after you fill your tree with gift-wrapped presents. This set comes with three different sizes to ensure you can create a diverse display of gifts.
OuMuaMua Hanging Snowflakes
Finish off your winter wonderland with these hanging paper snowflakes. At $9 per 12-piece set, we wouldn’t blame you for wanting to buy a bundle to bring the magic of a snowy Christmas day inside your home, no matter the weather outside.
ProductWorks 24-Inch Charlie Brown Christmas Tree
For a very nostalgic evening of celebration, center your decor on the iconic Charlie Brown Christmas Tree. The nostalgic display includes the classic red ornament with Linus’ blue blanket wrapped around the base.
Snowkingdom Gold Table Runner Set
Amp up your tablescape this year with the set of gold-flecked table runners. Made of a soft fiber mesh decked out in gold foil, the 9-foot runners can be used alone or layered over another decorative tablecloth for a more dramatic effect.
Amazon’s Prime Big Deal Days event is next week: Oct. 10-11. Call it “Prime Day 2.0” if you agree the name doesn’t roll off the tongue. The event promises another round of lowered prices on all sorts of products and an opportunity to cross-shop competing retailers.
October sales at a glance
Black Friday in October may be Amazon’s idea, but other retailers aren’t to be out-dollared. Here’s a rundown of the deal dates and some need-to-knows.
Target Circle Week is already on, running Oct. 1-7.
Deals are exclusive to Target Circle members, but Circle is free to join and use.
Get discounts online or in-store on items ranging from toys and kitchen supplies to everyday essentials like diapers and wipes.
Walmart’s Deals Holiday Kickoff begins at 7 p.m. ET on Oct. 9 and runs through Oct. 12.
This sale isn’t exclusive to Walmart+ members, so all shoppers can access the deals.
Expect discounts on giftable items like electronics, apparel, home decor and more.
Amazon’s Prime Big Deal Days begins at 3 a.m. ET on Oct. 10 and runs through Oct. 11.
Deals are exclusive to Amazon Prime members; Prime costs $14.99 a month or $139 a year. (There’s a 30-day free trial option for newbies.)
Expect deal drops throughout the event, and Prime members can request special invites ahead of time to doorbusters that may sell out.
Oh, and Best Buy has a 48-Hour Flash Sale on Oct. 10-11.
It’s like “shopping Armageddon,” says Charles Lindsey, associate professor of marketing at the University at Buffalo School of Management. “Retailers are going earlier and earlier every year in the hopes of locking in a certain percentage of consumers’ ‘holiday wallets’ before other retailers can,” he says.
Similar sales at the same time last year gave people a good reason to jump into Black Friday shopping early. Prices on popular products monitored by NerdWallet hit or matched year lows.
But the extended season of sales creates more opportunities for shoppers to bust their gift-buying budgets, says Lindsey.
Try these methods to shop the onslaught of early sales in a way that preserves your holiday wallet.
1. Make a game plan
Approach internet sales with a plan, says Lars Perner, assistant professor of clinical marketing at the University of Southern California. “If you go online and look at all of these great deals, you’re going to be tempted, and you may end up buying things that you otherwise wouldn’t have bought,” he adds.
Amazon shoppers can likely relate. You go online for a specific item, say a wireless mouse for your laptop, and you check out with the mouse, plus a massage gun and a DIY home security system because of the in-your-face markdowns.
Make a list of what you need and know your gift-buying and fun money budget before you browse.
“We only have a limited amount of money to spend,” says Perner. So be ready to be enticed and understand the implications of overspending, he adds.
2. Shop intentionally and set a time limit
Maybe you’ve heard of timeboxing work tasks. It’s a strategy where you schedule time for a task, stay with it for a short burst, then move on. The concept promotes focus and clarity of objective, according to the Project Management Institute. You can use this method for a more focused and budget-conscious online shopping experience.
If you plan to peruse, resist the urge to check Amazon like a social media app, and pick a finite time of day to do it. Maybe you end your day with a half-hour online to browse the deals when your mind is clear and guard is up against overbuying.
3. Get a good price and know it
With deals happening all the time, it’s no longer enough to take the sale price at face value. Perner points out how markdowns can be misleading.
“The deal might say 45% off, but that’s not going to be 45% off the regular price,” he says. Instead, it’s more likely to be a percentage off the item’s list or suggested retail price, which might not reflect what the retailer typically charges.
“It may still be a nice deal, you know, 15% off, say, the regular price. But again, some of the discounts are going to seem bigger than they really are,” says Perner.
You can easily get a feel for the going rate before you buy. Lindsey encourages shoppers to use a site like Camelcamelcamel, which tracks the price history of products sold on Amazon, or other browser-based coupon finders to confirm the quality of deals. The Honey extension, a software add-on for browsers like Chrome, also displays the price of products over time.
4. Wait for Black Friday if you want
Of course, you can roll the dice and wait for the day after Thanksgiving. NerdWallet’s data shows Prime Day and early October sales like Prime Big Deal Days present prices competitive with Black Friday, but there’s no substitute for the real thing. Actual Black Friday (and Cyber Monday) sales events still rock, and there’s less threat of disruption this year.
“The last few years [of] Black Friday sales might have been more limited during the pandemic,” says Perner. He recalls the supply chain challenges and backlog of ships coming into ports.
“But we’re past that now, and the Chinese economy is slowing down,” he adds.
Perner says those factors could lower the cost to produce imported goods. That could lead retailers to offer even better deals.
5. Skip the deal days altogether
Perner says sometimes he’ll check out Amazon’s deal of the day when he needs a break, but he has become better able to resist buying things over time. One tactic he suggests: Let the delivery boxes accumulate in the hall or garage as “visual evidence of how much you might be buying.”
Maybe you don’t need all that stuff.
It certainly is hard to put down the phone or close the laptop when holiday sales kickoff days have a regular place on the calendar and in the culture. But if you can resist the temptation, you could save the most money by skipping the deal days altogether.
Us Weekly has affiliate partnerships so we may receive compensation for some links to products and services.
Amazon Prime Day 2023 is a stellar opportunity to elevate your space. If you’re constantly saving home decor Reels on Instagram and consistently updating your home decor boards on Pinterest, it’s finally time to join in on the fun!
These Prime Day home decor finds earn an A+ in aesthetics. They’re the most Instagrammable pieces in the sale, and they’re all linked for you below! Remember to also check out our live Prime Day updates for more great deals!
LDGOOD Willow Vine Lights
LKGOOD
Was $43On Sale: $34You Save 21%
See it!
Wild Autumn 96-Pc Dried Pampas Grass Bouquet
WILD AUTUMN
Was $27On Sale: $16You Save 41%
See it!
Livebox Retro Sun Round Rug
LIVEBOX
Was $74On Sale: $59You Save 20%
See it!
Mkono 2-Pc Macrame Woven Wall Hanging
Mkono
Was $28On Sale: $20You Save 29%
See it!
BSOD Mushroom Lamp
BSOD
Was $42On Sale: $29You Save 31%
See it!
Omiro Decorative Wall Mirror
OMIRO
Was $27On Sale: $13You Save 52%
See it!
Yopyame 50-Pc Boho Collage Kit
Yopyame
Was $19On Sale: $9You Save 53%
See it!
Pxbniuya 200-LED Hanging Sphere Lights
PXBNIUYA
Was $18On Sale: $13You Save 28%
See it!
Base Roots Moon Phase Wall Hanging
BASE ROOTS
Was $30On Sale: $13You Save 57%
See it!
Rhapsody Studio Ceramic Vase
Rhapsody Studio
Was $39On Sale: $29You Save 26%
See it!
Aokala Scented Bubble Candles
Aokala
Was $10On Sale: $6You Save 40%
See it!
Recutmns Ivy Fake Vines, 24-Pack
RECUTMS
Was $25On Sale: $20You Save 20%
See it!
EGR Sunset Lamp Projector
EGR
Was $25On Sale: $12You Save 52%
See it!
Bamfox Hanging Wall Shelves
BAMFOX
Was $33On Sale: $26You Save 21%
See it!
Kazova Stripe Arch Wall Decal
Kazova
Was $40On Sale: $28You Save 30%
See it!
Joytezz Tufted Coasters
Joytezz
Was $17On Sale: $12You Save 29%
See it!
Home Smile Leaf Trinket Dish
HOME SMILE
Was $15On Sale: $10You Save 33%
See it!
Looking for something else? Explore all Prime Day deals here!
Not done shopping? See more of our favorite products below:
See more Us Weekly Shopping
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The Best Nordstrom Anniversary Sale Beauty Deals
Recreate ‘Barbie World’ Rapper Ice Spice’s BET Awards Look With Dyson Hair Tools
This post is brought to you by Us Weekly’s Shop With Us team. The Shop With Us team aims to highlight products and services our readers might find interesting and useful, such as wedding-guest outfits, purses, plus-size swimsuits, women’s sneakers, bridal shapewear, and perfect gift ideas for everyone in your life. Product and service selection, however, is in no way intended to constitute an endorsement by either Us Weekly or of any celebrity mentioned in the post.
The Shop With Us team may receive products free of charge from manufacturers to test. In addition, Us Weekly receives compensation from the manufacturer of the products we write about when you click on a link and then purchase the product featured in an article. This does not drive our decision as to whether or not a product or service is featured or recommended. Shop With Us operates independently from the advertising sales team. We welcome your feedback at [email protected]. Happy shopping!
Editor’s note: This is a recurring post, regularly updated with new information and offers.
As you load your cart in celebration of Amazon’s annual Prime Day event this July 11-12, make sure you’re maximizing your purchases by paying with a credit card that earns rewards on top of your killer savings.
However, determining which card is right for you for Amazon purchases requires looking beyond just points-earning rates and considering other factors, such as rewards currencies, purchase protection and extended warranties. In some cases, you might even want to consider different cards depending on the specific purchase. Additionally, your best option may vary based on whether you’re a Prime member and what other cards you already carry.
And even if you don’t actually use a participating card, you may be eligible for a discount of up to 50% on your purchase by applying just 1 American Express or Chase point to your purchase.
With all those things in mind, here’s a look at the best credit cards to use when shopping at Amazon.
Best credit cards for Amazon purchases
The information for the Prime Visa and Discover it Cash Back card has been collected independently by The Points Guy. The card details on this page have not been reviewed or provided by the card issuer.
Prime Visa
At first glance, Amazon’s own Prime Visa appears to be the most exciting option — and for most people, it probably is. The Prime member-exclusive card, which should not be mistaken for the basic Amazon Rewards Visa Signature, does not charge an annual fee (though you do need to pay for Prime membership, obviously).
It offers an impressive 5% cash back on all Amazon and Whole Foods purchases; 2% back at restaurants, gas stations and drugstores; and 1% back on all other purchases.
Plus, cardholders will enjoy bonus earnings on Prime Day this year. On July 11-12, Prime Visa cardholders will earn 6% back at Amazon.com, Amazon Fresh and Whole Foods Market.
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The biggest drawback is that the high return on spending is all this card really has to offer. While it comes with purchase protection (it covers items up to $500 in value if they’re damaged or stolen within 120 days of purchase) and extended warranty protection, it doesn’t include important purchase benefits like price protection and return protection, so it’s not ideal for large purchases.
The other drawback is that you need a Prime membership ($139 per year) to qualify. Although with so many U.S. households already subscribed to Prime, that’s probably not much of an issue for the card’s target demographic.
For more details, check out our full review of the Prime Visa.
Capital One Venture X and Venture cards
If you want transferable points on your Amazon purchases, a pair of cards from Capital One could be good options. That’s because both the Venture X Rewards card and the Venture Rewards card offer 2 miles per dollar spent on everyday purchases — including Amazon.
Based on TPG’s most recent point valuations, that’s a very respectable 3.7% return (valuations are an estimate and not provided by the issuer).
Beyond that, both cards offer identical sign-up bonuses (75,000 miles once you spend $4,000 on purchases within the first three months from account opening).
Check out our comparison of the two Venture cards for additional details.
Official application links: Capital One Venture X and Capital One Venture, each with 75,000 bonus miles when you spend $4,000 in the first three months.
Chase Freedom Unlimited
If you’re not a Prime subscriber and still want a solid return on your spending from a card with no annual fee, your best bet may be to go with the Chase Freedom Unlimited. The Freedom Unlimited provides 5% back on travel purchased through Chase, and 3% cash back on drugstore purchases and dining. All other purchases will earn 1.5% cash back.
While that’s a solid return on its own, you could potentially double the value of your rewards by pairing the Freedom Unlimited with a Chase Sapphire Reserve, Chase Sapphire Preferred Card or Ink Business Preferred Credit Card.
By doing so, you can convert your cash-back points into full-fledged transferable Ultimate Rewards points, worth 2 cents each based on TPG’s monthly points valuations.
Related: The power of the Chase Trifecta: Sapphire Reserve, Ink Preferred and Freedom Unlimited
Additionally, the Freedom Unlimited also offers 120-day purchase protection and extended warranty protection that extends eligible manufacturer’s warranties by an additional year. Like the two Amazon cards, this one does not have an annual fee.
For more details, check out our full review of the Freedom Unlimited.
Official application link: Chase Freedom Unlimited with an additional 1.5% back on all purchases up to $20,000 spent in the first year.
Discover it Cash Back
Amazon’s Prime Visa isn’t the only card to offer 5% cash back on purchases — the no-annual-fee Discover it Cash Back does, too (on rotating categories, up to $1,500 each quarter you activate, and 1% cash back after that) — and this one doesn’t require you to be a Prime member. However, this earning rate is typically only available on Amazon purchases just one quarter out of the year, and even that isn’t guaranteed to come around every year.
The most recent times Amazon was a rotating category were in the last quarter (Q4) of 2021 and 2022.
Keep in mind that while this card is great for Amazon purchases during any quarter when Amazon is among the retailers that count toward bonus earning, it isn’t the best card to use year-round. When Amazon is not a part of the quarterly cash-back bonus category, your purchases will only receive 1% back.
However, what makes the card shine is that Discover will match your rewards at the end of your first cardmember year, so you could get up to 10% back on Amazon.com purchases from a quarter when it’s a bonus retailer.
Unfortunately, the card has discontinued other benefits, including extended product warranty, return guarantee, purchase protection and price protection.
For more details, check out our full review of the Discover it Cash Back.
American Express® Gold Card
This card is a good choice for those who make many high-value purchases on Amazon.
With the Amex Gold Card, you’ll earn 1 Membership Rewards point per dollar on Amazon purchases, yielding a return of 2% based on TPG’s valuations. Unless there’s an Amazon deal available through Amex Offers, this won’t be the best card from an earning perspective.
The biggest benefit of using the card is its generous purchase protection policy. While many cards include a similar perk, the Amex Gold Card provides an astounding $10,000 in protection per incident and up to $50,000 for all incidents in a calendar year.*
*Eligibility and benefit levels vary by card. Terms, conditions and limitations apply. Visit americanexpress.com/benefitsguide for details. Policies are underwritten by AMEX Assurance Company.
Related: Best credit cards for purchase protection
The Amex Gold Card has a $250 annual fee (see rates and fees), but its benefits — including up to $120 in dining credits each calendar year at participating restaurants/locations and up to $120 in Uber Cash each year ($10 monthly credits) — make the card worthwhile. The card must be added to your Uber account to receive the Uber Cash benefit. Enrollment is required for select benefits.
For more details, check out our full review of the Amex Gold.
Official application link: American Express Gold Card with a 60,000-point welcome offer after spending $4,000 in the first six months of card membership. However, you may be targeted for a higher welcome bonus through the CardMatch tool (offer is subject to change at any time).
Bottom line
As you can see, picking a card for Amazon purchases isn’t as simple as going with the one at the top of this list.
The best rewards credit card for you depends on your personal habits and priorities. So, while the Amazon Prime Rewards Visa Signature card offers a high return on Amazon purchases, it’s not everyone’s best option, as it’s only available to Prime members and lacks key shopping protections, which you’ll want for larger purchases.
Card benefits such as return protection have proved extremely valuable and may be worth sacrificing 2%-3% in rewards in the long run. Additionally, if you’ve been saving up transferable points for a specific redemption, it may make sense to earn rewards in that currency rather than cash back so that you can top off your account and book that award trip you’ve been dreaming about sooner.
For rates and fees of the Amex Gold, click here.
Additional reporting by Emily Thompson, Ryan Wilcox, Stella Shon and Benét J. Wilson.
For Capital One products listed on this page, some of the above benefits are provided by Visa® or Mastercard® and may vary by product. See the respective Guide to Benefits for details, as terms and exclusions apply.
It’s time for Amazon Prime Day — one of the best times of the year to save money on everything from headphones to household staples. Whether you are gearing up to save some cash on Prime Day purchases or looking for deals on any of the other days of the year, here are ways you may be able to save money on your next Amazon “add to cart” moment.
Related: These are the best credit cards for shopping at Amazon
Use points
You might have noticed the “Shop with Points” option when you check out. This is not always the best use of your credit card points from a monetary value perspective, as you can often get better value from your points when redeeming for travel.
But sometimes, there are promotions that award you money off your Amazon order for using a small number of points.
Currently, there is an offer for some Amazon accounts that will save 50% on Amazon orders using as little as 1 Amex Membership Rewards point. These offers can vary, but the concept remains relatively the same. This can be a great way to save on your next Amazon order if one of these offers is available for your account.
You can check these links for some of the latest Amazon points-related offers:
Here’s another offer for American Express cardholders. If you add a new Amex card, you can get up to $15 off so long as you use your American Express card at checkout. Click on this link to see if you are eligible.
New to TPG? Read our ‘Getting started with points, miles and credit cards’ guide
Earn bonus points with the right credit card
If you have an American Express card, you can take advantage of targeted Amex Offers. These offers vary from account to account and can be a great way to rack up bonus Membership Rewards points or save money on purchases you would make anyway.
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Amazon periodically appears in Amex Offers. For example, you may be able to earn 5 points per dollar on your Amazon purchases with current Amex Offers.
The trick here is to check your Amex account frequently to see if you’re eligible to earn bonus points or additional savings. You need to manually add these offers to your Amex account and then use that card to pay for your Amazon orders.
TPG values Amex Membership Rewards points at 2 cents each, so getting 5 per dollar spent at Amazon is like earning 10 cents in rewards per dollar spent. To start accessing these Amex Offers, a couple of good American Express cards to consider that don’t even come with annual fees are:
Use an Amazon credit card
While we’re on the subject of the best credit cards for Amazon purchases, let’s talk about Amazon’s own card — the Amazon Prime Rewards Visa Signature Card.
The information for the Prime Visa card has been collected independently by The Points Guy. The card details on this page have not been reviewed or provided by the card issuer.
It doesn’t have an annual fee, and new cardholders will receive a $200 Amazon gift card immediately upon approval. You can use the gift card straight away for Prime Day purchases. The card is only available to Prime members, so factor that in when deciding if it is the right match for you.
Read our full review of the Amazon Prime Rewards Visa Signature Card.
The card usually awards 3% cash back at Amazon and Whole Foods Market, as well as 2% cash back at restaurants and gas stations and 1% cash back on everything else. However, you’ll earn 6% back at Amazon and Whole Foods Market on July 11-12.
Related: Is the Amazon Prime Rewards credit card still worth the cost?
Use coupons
This tip won’t come as much of a surprise, but if you see a coupon available on Amazon, be sure to click on it. With coupons, you can save money with the literal click of a button.
You’ll know if there’s a coupon available for your item, as there will be an icon that says “Coupon” below the price. The coupon will be activated if you check the box next to it. Coupons are sometimes only for a few cents or dollars, but saving money is saving money.
Some items will also let you save by subscribing for repeat deliveries.
Track prices and set price alerts
It’s hard to know just how good a sale is if you haven’t been pricing a certain item for a while. One site that can tell you the historical price of an item on Amazon — and even alert you to price drops — is CamelCamelCamel.
This will help you gauge just how good a sale is. If it’s not an urgent purchase, you can also use this site to help you decide whether or not to hold off until your item is potentially on sale for a better price if you see it’s been lower in the past.
Related: These credit cards come with welcome bonuses worth $1,000 or more
Get credit for no-rush shipping or pickup
If you have time to spare, you can opt for no-rush shipping on your items and cluster them for an “Amazon Day Delivery.” This way, you’ll earn a credit that you can use for future purchases such as select e-books, digital music, videos and apps. The amount of the credit varies, but it has often been a couple of dollars in my tests.
You’ll find this option during checkout when you’re prompted to enter your shipping information.
There is also sometimes a promotion if you pick up the order at an Amazon pickup point. Right now, my account has an offer where I’ll get a $10 credit on a future $20 Amazon order if I use the code 10TRYPICKUP and retrieve my order at an Amazon Hub, such as an Amazon Locker or Locker+.
Sign up for a free Amazon Prime trial
You also might be able to sign up for a free, 30-day trial of Amazon Prime. This is a great free way to try out the service if you haven’t already. You’ll be able to receive free, two-day shipping on eligible items, as well as get access to Prime Video, etc. After that, the plan increases to $14.99 a month if you don’t cancel.
Purchase Amazon gift cards
If you don’t have any points or cash-back bonuses for Amazon purchases on one of your credit cards, you can also purchase Amazon gift cards at grocery stores with a credit card that gives bonus rewards at that type of retailer.
For example, if you pick up a $100 Amazon gift card at the grocery store and pay for that purchase with the Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express, you can earn 6% cash back on that purchase at U.S. supermarkets (on up to $6,000 per year in purchases).
Get bonus credit for your Amazon reload
Valid through Monday, you may be able to get a $5 Amazon promotional credit with a $50 reload to your Amazon account balance. This is an easy way to prepare for Prime Day with a $5 bonus credit in your account.