Finding the absolute best deals requires a multi-pronged approach, and relying on just one website is limiting. My years of testing various deal sites have revealed a tiered system for maximizing your savings.
Tier 1: Aggregators & Experts
- DealNews.com: This is your go-to for curated deals vetted by retail experts. They prioritize quality over sheer volume, saving you time sifting through irrelevant offers. Think of them as your trusted deal concierge.
Tier 2: Specific Niche Sites & Flash Sales
- Woot!: The original daily deals site, Woot! offers a unique blend of surprise deals and deep discounts. It’s perfect for spontaneous shoppers willing to take a chance on what’s offered. Expect a high volume of inventory turnover – find it or lose it!
- Amazon Haul: This isn’t a dedicated website, but a feature within Amazon. Leveraging Amazon’s vast inventory and sophisticated algorithm, this section highlights particularly strong deals. It’s ideal for finding discounted Amazon-exclusive products or lightning deals on well-known brands. Be sure to check frequently for daily updates.
Tier 3: Strategic Deal Hunting
- Utilize browser extensions: Many browser extensions (like Honey or Rakuten) automatically search for coupon codes at checkout. They’re a great way to stack savings on top of already discounted items.
- Follow brands directly: Sign up for email newsletters from your favorite retailers. Often, brands offer exclusive deals and early access to sales to their subscribers.
- Check deal forums: Online communities and forums dedicated to deal hunting often share insider tips and exclusive links not found anywhere else.
Important Note: Always compare prices across multiple platforms before committing to a purchase. A deal on one site might not be the *absolute* best deal elsewhere. Happy hunting!
How do I find coupons and discounts?
Hunting for the best deals just got easier. Forget endless scrolling through retailer websites; coupon databases are your new best friend. These online treasure troves compile printable and digital coupons, even rebates, letting you search by brand, product, or store, saving you precious time and effort. A quick Google search for “coupon database” will unearth a wealth of options. But the real game-changer? Dedicated coupon apps. Download a free app to your smartphone and access deals on the go, instantly checking for savings while shopping in-store or browsing online. Many apps offer personalized deals based on your shopping habits and even alert you to upcoming sales, ensuring you never miss an opportunity to save.
Beyond simple coupon aggregation, some sophisticated databases offer features like price comparison tools, allowing you to instantly see which store offers the lowest price after applying coupons. Others incorporate community features, enabling users to share their best finds and tips, essentially creating a collective of savvy shoppers. Remember to check the legitimacy of any coupon before use and be mindful of expiration dates to maximize your savings.
Consider factors like the database’s size and breadth of deals, its user interface, and any extra features like price tracking or community interaction when choosing your preferred method. Ultimately, the best coupon strategy is a multifaceted approach combining online databases and mobile apps to optimize your savings potential.
How do you get companies to send you coupons?
Oh honey, getting free stuff is an art, not a science! Subtlety works sometimes. If I’m already obsessed with a brand, I’ll gush about their amazing [insert product name here] on their social media – genuine praise, of course, not fake flattery – maybe even tag them. If it’s a new-to-me brand, I’ll slide into their DMs (carefully!) expressing my excitement to try their stuff and mentioning a specific product that caught my eye. A little flirty flattery never hurts!
But sometimes, you gotta be bold! Directly emailing the company (find their customer service email, not some generic address) expressing your love for their products and asking if they have any coupon codes or promotions is totally acceptable. I’ve even had success asking about upcoming sales or special offers. Be polite, be enthusiastic, and mention something specific you adore. Remember to search their website first – they might have a coupon section already!
Pro Tip: Join their email list! It’s a goldmine. They often send exclusive deals and coupons directly to subscribers. Also, look for coupon websites and apps – they aggregate deals from tons of brands. And don’t forget to check for printable coupons on the brand’s website or through newspaper inserts (yes, they still exist!).
Super Secret Weapon: Google “[brand name] coupon code” – you might be surprised what pops up!
Is there a better site than Groupon?
Groupon’s dominance in the daily deals space is undeniable, but alternatives exist catering to diverse needs. While searching for a superior platform, remember to prioritize customer service and pricing – crucial factors often overlooked. Vagaro consistently emerges as the best overall alternative, providing a superior user experience and often sharper deals.
However, the “best” platform depends heavily on individual preferences. Travelzoo excels in travel deals, offering curated selections rather than Groupon’s vast, sometimes overwhelming, quantity. For a more localized experience, Localflavor focuses on smaller businesses and community-based offers. If luxury is your focus, Gilt offers high-end deals on fashion and lifestyle products, setting it apart from Groupon’s broader scope. Finally, dealsaver presents a more budget-conscious option, emphasizing value and affordability.
Consider these nuances: Vagaro’s strength lies in its appointment scheduling features, making it ideal for booking services. Travelzoo prioritizes quality over quantity, leading to fewer deals but higher chances of satisfaction. Localflavor helps support local economies, while Gilt offers a distinct upscale experience. Dealsaver is great for those strictly hunting for the best prices. Ultimately, the “better” site hinges on your specific priorities and desired deal type.
What is the cheapest website to buy from?
OMG, you won’t BELIEVE the deals I’ve found! Forget department stores, honey, we’re talking serious savings.
Amazon: Yeah, yeah, everyone knows Amazon, but did you know about their “Amazon Warehouse” for crazy-cheap returns? And their Subscribe & Save? Game changer for stocking up on essentials!
eBay: The ultimate treasure hunt! You can find vintage steals, rare collectibles, and unbelievably discounted new items. Just be sure to check seller ratings!
Target: Target’s got a killer online selection, plus those adorable home goods! Don’t forget to check their Cartwheel app for extra savings!
Newegg: Electronics heaven! Seriously, if you need tech, this is your go-to. They often have flash sales, so keep an eye out!
Overstock: This place is a goldmine for home furnishings, but they also have tons of other stuff—seriously, everything from clothes to kitchen gadgets. Their clearance section is insane!
Zaful: Fashionista alert! Zaful is amazing for trendy clothes at rock-bottom prices. Sizes can run small, though, so always check the size chart.
Etsy: Unique handmade and vintage finds galore! Perfect for personalized gifts or that one-of-a-kind piece you’ve been searching for. But be prepared to browse – it’s addictive!
Zappos: Shoe lovers, rejoice! Zappos offers a massive selection and free shipping/returns. Their customer service is legendary, too.
Pro-Tip #1: Use browser extensions like Honey or Rakuten to automatically find and apply coupon codes at checkout!
Pro-Tip #2: Set up price alerts on Google Shopping to get notified when the price of something you want drops.
Pro-Tip #3: Always read reviews before buying anything, especially from lesser-known sites!
Okay, I’m off to go browse some more… gotta snag those killer deals before they’re gone!
How to get special deals?
To find the best deals on gadgets and tech, explore major e-commerce sites like Amazon, Flipkart, and Snapdeal. These platforms frequently host massive sales events – think Black Friday, Cyber Monday, and Diwali sales – offering significant discounts on a wide array of electronics. Look beyond these major events, though. Many retailers run smaller, more targeted sales throughout the year, often tied to specific product launches or holidays.
Sign up for email newsletters from your favorite brands and retailers. This is a surefire way to receive notifications about upcoming sales and exclusive deals. Many companies also offer price-matching guarantees, so don’t hesitate to compare prices before committing to a purchase. Remember to check for refurbished or open-box items; these often come with substantial price reductions while still offering good value. Websites specializing in refurbished electronics are also worth exploring.
Consider using browser extensions designed to track price drops on specific items you’re eyeing. This allows you to be alerted when the price falls to your desired level, ensuring you don’t miss out on a great opportunity. Finally, don’t forget to leverage cashback and reward programs offered by credit cards or loyalty schemes. These programs can often provide additional savings on top of existing discounts.
Where do people get all their coupons?
As a savvy shopper, I get coupons from a variety of sources. Sunday newspapers are a goldmine, but don’t overlook the inserts in the Wednesday papers either – they often have great deals. Many retailers have apps with digital coupons you can clip directly to your loyalty card; check apps for stores like Target, Kroger, and Walgreens. Their websites and mailed flyers often contain coupons as well. Don’t forget to check for printable coupons online; sites like Coupons.com and RetailMeNot are good starting points. Pay close attention to the fine print: “store coupons” are only valid at that specific store, while manufacturer coupons are accepted at most stores carrying the product. Stacking coupons (using both manufacturer and store coupons on a single item) is a fantastic way to maximize savings. I also join the email lists of my favorite brands; they often send exclusive coupon codes. Finally, consider couponing apps like Fetch Rewards which give you points for scanning receipts, potentially leading to gift cards or discounts.
Pro-tip: Organize your coupons! A binder or a digital coupon management system will make finding the right coupon a breeze. Also, remember expiration dates – coupons can expire quickly.
Why is Groupon not popular anymore?
As a frequent Groupon user in its heyday, I can attest to the unsustainable nature of its deep discounts. The initial allure was undeniable – significant savings on services and goods I’d otherwise have hesitated to purchase. However, the merchants often suffered. The low profit margins on Groupon deals meant many businesses offered subpar service or used inferior materials to compensate, leading to negative experiences for customers and, consequently, a lack of repeat business for the merchants. This created a vicious cycle: businesses relied on Groupon for short-term customer acquisition but ultimately found it unprofitable, resulting in a decline in quality and a negative impact on the Groupon experience itself. The deals often came with restrictive conditions, such as limited time windows or inconvenient scheduling, further detracting from their value. Ultimately, Groupon prioritized attracting new customers through unsustainable discounts over fostering genuine customer loyalty and building lasting partnerships with businesses.
Beyond the merchant-customer dynamic, Groupon’s own platform and app also faced criticism for being clunky and difficult to navigate, often presenting overwhelming numbers of irrelevant deals. The sheer volume of daily deals made it hard to discover truly worthwhile offers, diminishing the overall appeal. This, coupled with the often-negative experiences resulting from the low-profit deals, contributed to the decline in Groupon’s popularity.
The model simply lacked long-term viability. It was a race to the bottom, squeezing profit margins for both businesses and, eventually, Groupon itself. While initially revolutionary, its inherent flaws ultimately led to its downfall.
How to get coupons mailed to you for free?
Unlocking free coupons requires a proactive approach. Don’t just passively wait for them to arrive; actively seek them out. Website sign-ups are your first port of call. Most major brands boast newsletters brimming with exclusive offers and coupon codes. Similarly, joining their loyalty programs often unlocks a treasure trove of discounts and special promotions, often including mailed coupons as a perk.
Social media is another untapped goldmine. Follow your favorite brands on platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter. Many run contests and giveaways featuring coupon codes. Engaging with their content often increases your chances of spotting these offers.
Finally, don’t underestimate the power of direct communication. Contacting customer service directly—via phone, email, or online chat—and politely requesting coupons can sometimes yield surprising results. Be polite, concise, and explain your interest in their products. You might be surprised how often this simple tactic works.
Pro-tip: Keep a dedicated email address for coupon sign-ups to avoid cluttering your inbox. Organize your coupons digitally or physically to maximize their use. Consider coupon organization apps or a designated coupon binder.
How do you find the discount on anything?
Finding discounts on tech gadgets is crucial, especially with the constant release of new products. Let’s break down how to calculate those savings.
Calculating Discount Percentage: The provided formulas are incorrect for calculating the value of the discount. They calculate the discount percentage *given* the discount amount and the list price, not the other way around. To find the amount of the discount, you need a different approach.
Correct Formula: Discount Amount = List Price × (Discount Percentage / 100)
- Identify the List Price: This is the original price of the gadget before any discounts are applied.
- Determine the Discount Percentage: This is usually clearly stated (e.g., “15% off”).
- Calculate the Discount Amount: Use the formula above. For example, a $500 phone with a 15% discount: $500 × (15/100) = $75 discount.
- Calculate the Final Price: Subtract the discount amount from the list price. In our example: $500 – $75 = $425.
Example: 25% off a $1000 laptop:
- List Price: $1000
- Discount Percentage: 25%
- Discount Amount: $1000 × (25/100) = $250
- Final Price: $1000 – $250 = $750
Pro-Tip: Many online retailers will automatically apply discounts at checkout. Always check for coupon codes or promotional offers before finalizing your purchase. Websites like deal aggregators can also be useful for finding the best prices.
Beyond Basic Discounts: Sometimes you’ll encounter more complex deals, such as combining discounts or tiered pricing (e.g., 10% off for orders over $500). Carefully read the terms and conditions to ensure you understand how the discount is applied.
Remember: Always double-check your calculations to avoid any surprises at the checkout.
What are the cons of Groupon?
Groupon’s appeal to bargain hunters often attracts a clientele less inclined towards repeat purchases or higher-value offerings. This “low-end” customer base, while providing initial volume, may limit long-term profitability and brand perception.
The impact on brand image is significant. Constantly offering deep discounts can devalue a business’s products or services in the eyes of consumers, potentially harming its overall brand identity and future pricing strategies. Think of it like this: would you trust a high-end audio brand that constantly runs 50% off sales? Its perceived quality suffers.
Customer retention is a major challenge. Groupon deals rarely foster customer loyalty. The focus is on the immediate discounted price, not building a relationship with the business. This contrasts with building a loyal customer base through premium service and consistent quality – a core aspect of the tech industry’s success. Imagine if Apple relied solely on Groupon-style deals.
Profitability is questionable. The deep discounts offered often eat into profit margins, sometimes to the point of operating at a loss. This is unsustainable long-term, especially in the competitive tech market where research, development, and marketing are significant investments.
Better options exist. Direct marketing, loyalty programs, and targeted advertising can achieve far better results in building lasting customer relationships and improving profitability, particularly in the tech sector. Consider the effectiveness of Apple’s ecosystem versus a one-off Groupon deal for a particular gadget.
How do I get the best deal every time?
Securing the best deal consistently requires meticulous market research. Understanding average pricing and identifying potential seller vulnerabilities – like needing a quick sale or having excess inventory – is key. Knowing the market’s fair value empowers you to negotiate effectively.
Don’t be afraid to initiate negotiations. A simple, direct question like “Is that your best price?” opens the door to discussion. A polite, confident demeanor is crucial; body language speaks volumes. Avoid appearing desperate or overly aggressive.
Consider leveraging technology. Apps and websites provide price comparisons across numerous vendors, allowing for rapid market analysis. Utilize online reviews to assess seller reputation and identify potential areas for negotiation.
Timing is another critical factor. End-of-season sales, clearance events, and holiday promotions often present significant savings opportunities. Being aware of these seasonal fluctuations maximizes your chances of securing a bargain.
Finally, don’t hesitate to walk away. Knowing your limits and being prepared to forgo a purchase if the price isn’t right strengthens your negotiating position. A willingness to walk away often compels sellers to reconsider their offer.
What is a free promo code?
A free promo code is basically a secret code that unlocks awesome deals! It’s usually a jumble of letters and numbers, and when you enter it at checkout, you get something extra, like free shipping – yay! – a free sample to try, or even a “buy one, get one free” offer. Think of it as a virtual coupon, but way cooler. Pro-tip: Many websites have dedicated sections for promo codes, often labelled “promotions,” “deals,” or “coupons.” Sometimes you can find codes on social media too, especially if you follow your favorite brands. Another tip: Don’t forget to check for expiration dates; those sweet deals don’t last forever!
Important note: Some “free” promo codes might have minimum purchase requirements. Always read the fine print to make sure you understand the terms before you buy.
How do extreme couponers get all their coupons?
Extreme couponing relies heavily on acquiring a large volume of coupons. One common method is subscribing to multiple newspapers, particularly those with Sunday inserts brimming with coupons. This can become expensive, however, so savvy couponers often seek alternative, cost-effective strategies.
Free or discounted newspaper acquisition is key. Many cafes and dollar stores often have leftover Sunday papers available for sale on Monday at significantly reduced prices. Check with your local businesses—this can yield substantial savings on your couponing supplies.
Online coupon databases and websites also play a crucial role. While many sites offer printable coupons, be aware of expiration dates and terms and conditions. Some websites aggregate deals from multiple sources, saving you time in your search. Effective organization of these online resources is critical for maximizing their utility.
Manufacturer websites are another often-overlooked source. Companies frequently offer printable coupons directly from their product pages. This strategy allows you to target specific brands and products you’re already interested in.
Couponing apps provide a readily accessible digital resource. Many mobile applications compile and organize coupons from various sources. Some even offer location-based deals, streamlining your shopping experience.
Remember that diligence is paramount. Extreme couponing requires a significant time investment in searching, organizing, and utilizing your acquired coupons. The rewards can be substantial, but it’s not a passive endeavor.
What has happened to Groupon?
OMG, Groupon! Remember those amazing deals? They’re practically extinct now. Apparently, by 2025, they’d completely drained the well of businesses willing to partner with them. No more merchants = way fewer deals. The deals that *were* left? Seriously underwhelming. Think sad little pizza coupons instead of a weekend getaway to Vegas!
This total lack of good deals drove shoppers away. I mean, who wants to bother scrolling through a site full of junk just to find one decent discount? It was like finding a needle in a haystack…a haystack filled with sad, lonely coupons. Fewer deals, less traffic, less money for Groupon. It’s a vicious cycle, honey. I practically felt the death of a thousand dreams. I’m still hunting for that perfect spa day deal though…if anyone knows where to find them now!
Are people still using Groupon?
Groupon’s popularity has significantly declined in recent years. While once boasting nearly 54 million unique customers in Q4 2014, that number plummeted to a mere 15.4 million by Q4 2024 – a drastic reduction of over 70%.
Reasons for this decline are multifaceted:
- Increased Competition: The deals and discounts market is incredibly saturated now, with numerous competitors offering similar services, often with better user experiences.
- Shifting Consumer Preferences: Consumers have increasingly turned to other platforms for deals, leveraging social media, direct-to-consumer marketing, and loyalty programs.
- Quality Concerns: Groupon faced criticism regarding the quality of some of its partner businesses and the overall value proposition of certain deals. Many deals felt underwhelming or ultimately overpriced after factoring in the initial discount.
- App Experience: The Groupon app and website have also received criticism for being clunky and difficult to navigate, impacting user experience and retention.
Despite the decline, Groupon persists. However, its future success will depend on:
- Improving its user experience through app and website updates.
- Focusing on higher-quality partnerships and more enticing deals.
- Adapting to evolving consumer preferences and competitive pressures.
- Exploring new business models and revenue streams beyond the traditional daily deals model.
In short: While Groupon still exists, its user base has drastically shrunk, highlighting the challenges of maintaining relevance in a dynamic and competitive market.
Where is the cheapest place to buy stuff online?
Finding the absolute cheapest place to buy tech online is a quest many of us undertake. While there’s no single “cheapest” site universally, several platforms excel in different areas.
Amazon: While not always the *absolute* cheapest, Amazon’s vast selection and competitive pricing, combined with its Prime benefits (free shipping, early access to deals), make it a strong contender. Consider using CamelCamelCamel or Keepa to track price history before purchasing and to ensure you’re getting the best deal. Amazon also offers refurbished products, significantly reducing costs while sometimes retaining warranties.
Slickdeals: This crowdsourced deal site is a treasure trove for tech bargains. Users post deals they’ve found across various retailers, so you’ll uncover discounts you might miss otherwise. Be sure to check the comments section for user reviews before jumping on any deal, as sometimes there are catches.
AliExpress: Known for incredibly low prices, AliExpress is a great place to find budget-friendly tech gadgets and accessories. However, shipping times can be significantly longer than from US-based retailers, and product quality can vary. Thorough research and reading reviews are essential before buying from this platform. Be mindful of potential customs fees as well.
Dhgate: Similar to AliExpress, Dhgate offers cheap electronics, but a significant portion of its inventory consists of replicas or knock-offs. Proceed with caution and prioritize seller ratings carefully. The risk of receiving a substandard or counterfeit product is higher here than on other platforms.
Ultimately, the cheapest place to buy tech online depends on your specific needs and risk tolerance. Weighing shipping costs, potential import fees, and product quality against the price is crucial for making informed purchasing decisions.
Where do the extreme couponers get their coupons?
As a regular shopper who uses coupons extensively, I can tell you that extreme couponing relies heavily on traditional methods. Print sources are king: newspaper inserts, store flyers, and even mailers are crucial. These aren’t just a few coupons; we’re talking binders overflowing with hundreds, meticulously organized in plastic sleeves. This is a labor of love—and a significant time investment. Beyond the obvious, I find success also comes from understanding coupon stacking (combining manufacturer coupons with store coupons). Manufacturer coupons are found in the Sunday newspaper inserts (like SmartSource and P&G), while store coupons are usually available through their loyalty programs or weekly ads. It’s about strategically planning your shopping list around available deals. Don’t forget about coupon apps; they can offer digital coupons for extra savings.
Another key is understanding expiration dates and cleverly organizing coupons by category and expiration, optimizing the use of every single coupon before it expires. Many extreme couponers also participate in online forums and communities, exchanging tips and information on the best deals and coupon strategies. Mastering the art of couponing takes dedication, organization, and a healthy dose of patience.
What states have extreme couponing?
As a regular shopper always looking for the best deals, I can tell you extreme couponing isn’t really localized to specific states, but certain saving strategies are more popular in certain areas. For instance, loyalty programs are huge in Arizona; everyone’s racking up points and using those retailer rewards. Kentucky, on the other hand, seems to be the coupon capital, with residents aggressively using paper and digital coupons to maximize savings. It’s not just about clipping coupons though. Successful extreme couponing also relies heavily on understanding store policies, stacking manufacturer and store coupons, and coordinating purchases with sales and promotions. Finding and organizing deals takes time and effort but the potential savings are enormous. Websites and apps dedicated to couponing, along with social media groups, are invaluable resources for discovering deals and sharing strategies. Beyond coupons and loyalty programs, utilizing cashback apps and credit card rewards points expands the opportunities for significant savings. Remember to always check expiration dates and terms and conditions to avoid disappointments.
