Amazon has become the go-to platform for millions of people worldwide when it comes to shopping for a wide range of products. With its vast selection, competitive prices, and convenient delivery options, it's no wonder that Amazon has become a powerhouse in the e-commerce industry. In this article, we will explore 18 must-know hacks for leveraging the power of Amazon and Amazon Prime to enhance your shopping experience, save money, and make the most out of this popular platform.
1. Compare Prices and Save Money
One of the key benefits of shopping on Amazon is the ability to compare prices easily. When searching for a particular product, it's always a wise idea to check multiple listings and sellers to find the best price. Amazon allows you to sort search results by price, customer reviews, and other criteria, enabling you to make an informed choice. By spending a few extra minutes comparing prices, you can potentially save a significant amount of money on your purchases.
2. Utilize Amazon Prime Benefits
Amazon Prime is a subscription service that offers a multitude of advantages to its members. Some of the main benefits include free two-day shipping on eligible items, access to streaming services like Prime Video and Prime Music, and early access to exclusive deals and promotions. If you frequently shop on Amazon, investing in an Amazon Prime membership can provide you with substantial savings and added convenience.
3. Subscribe and Save
Subscribing to products on Amazon can provide significant savings for items you regularly use or consume. Many everyday household items, such as toiletries, snacks, and pet supplies, offer the option to subscribe and save. By signing up for a subscription, you can save up to 15% on the purchase price and have the products automatically delivered at predetermined intervals. This feature is especially useful for busy individuals who want to ensure a steady supply of necessities without the hassle of repeatedly ordering them.
4. Get Cashback with Amazon Credit Cards
If you're a frequent Amazon shopper, it may be worth considering an Amazon credit card. By using an Amazon credit card for your purchases, you can earn cashback on eligible transactions. Depending on the specific credit card and your spending habits, you can earn up to 5% cashback on Amazon purchases, as well as cashback on other categories like dining and gas. This simple hack allows you to maximize your savings every time you shop on Amazon.
5. Utilize Amazon Coupons
Amazon offers digital coupons for various products, allowing you to save money on your purchases. Simply navigate to the "Today's Deals" section on Amazon and click on "Coupons" to browse through available discounts. Select the coupons that apply to your needs and add them to your cart. When checking out, the discounts will be automatically applied, reducing the total cost of your order. Keep an eye on the available coupons regularly, as they are regularly updated and may offer substantial savings on products you regularly purchase.
6. Take Advantage of Lightning Deals
Lightning Deals are time-limited promotions offered on Amazon that provide significant discounts on various products. These deals are available for a limited time and often have a limited quantity, making them highly sought after. To benefit from Lightning Deals, monitor the "Today's Deals" section on Amazon frequently. Be sure to act quickly when you come across a deal that interests you, as they can sell out fast. Lightning Deals can be a great way to score high-quality products at heavily discounted prices.
7. Set Price Alerts
If you're eyeing a particular product on Amazon but don't want to pay the current price, consider setting up a price alert. Various websites and browser extensions allow you to track price fluctuations on Amazon and notify you when the price drops. By using such tools, you can effectively wait for the best time to purchase your desired items, potentially saving a significant amount of money.
8. Make Use of Amazon Warehouse Deals
Amazon Warehouse Deals offer significant discounts on open-box and pre-owned items across various categories. These products are typically returned by customers or have damaged packaging but are still in good condition. By purchasing from Amazon Warehouse Deals, you can save money while still receiving a high-quality product. It's important to note that these deals often come with limited availability, so acting promptly when a deal arises is crucial.
9. Optimize Your Product Searches
To enhance your searching experience on Amazon, it's essential to use specific keyword combinations and refine your search criteria. Adding relevant keywords to your search query can help you find exactly what you're looking for without sifting through irrelevant results. Furthermore, utilizing filters such as price range, customer ratings, and brand can narrow down the options and make it easier to find the perfect product.
10. Get Familiar with Amazon Best Sellers
Exploring the Amazon Best Sellers list can be an effective way to discover popular and well-regarded products. This list is updated hourly and showcases the top-selling items in each category. By keeping an eye on the Amazon Best Sellers, you can gain insights into which products are in-demand and highly rated by customers. This knowledge can help you make more informed purchasing decisions and ensure you're getting a quality product.
11. Utilize Customer Reviews
Customer reviews are a valuable resource when shopping on Amazon. By reading reviews from fellow shoppers, you can gather insights about the product's performance, durability, and overall quality. It's recommended to focus on reviews from verified purchasers, as they are more likely to provide accurate and unbiased feedback. Positive and negative reviews can both be informative, helping you make an informed decision based on your needs and preferences.
12. Set Up Wish Lists
Amazon allows users to create wish lists, which are collections of desired items that can be saved for future reference or sharing with others. Wish lists can be handy for keeping track of products you're interested in and monitoring their prices. Additionally, you can share your wish list with friends and family, making it easier for them to purchase gifts for special occasions. By utilizing the wish list feature, you can stay organized and ensure you don't miss out on great deals for your desired items.
13. Consider Third-Party Sellers
While Amazon is known for selling products directly, there is also a vast marketplace of third-party sellers on the platform. These sellers offer a wide variety of products, including unique, niche, and hard-to-find items. In some cases, third-party sellers may offer better prices or have products that are not available directly from Amazon. It's important to perform due diligence when purchasing from third-party sellers by checking their ratings, reviews, and return policies to ensure a positive shopping experience.
14. Make Use of Amazon Trade-In
If you have used electronics, books, video games, or other eligible items lying around, consider utilizing Amazon Trade-In. This program allows you to exchange your used products for Amazon gift cards. Simply search for the item you wish to trade-in, answer a few questions about its condition, and receive an instant trade-in offer. If you accept the offer, you can ship the item to Amazon for free and receive the corresponding gift card once the evaluation is complete. This hack helps you declutter your space while earning credit towards future Amazon purchases.
15. Use Alexa for Voice Shopping
If you own an Amazon Echo or other devices with the Alexa voice assistant, you can take advantage of voice shopping. Simply ask Alexa to add items to your cart, check product availability, and complete your purchase. This hands-free approach to shopping can be convenient and efficient, especially when you're busy or unable to access a computer or smartphone. Just ensure that you have enabled voice purchasing settings and have set up a secure PIN to prevent unauthorized orders.
16. Explore Amazon Global Store
Amazon Global Store provides access to a wide selection of international products that are shipped globally. This feature can be beneficial if you're looking for unique products, goods from specific regions, or items that are otherwise not readily available in your country. By exploring the Amazon Global Store, you can access a vast catalog of diverse products and indulge in international shopping from the comfort of your home.
17. Take Advantage of Amazon's Return Policy
Amazon has a generous return policy that allows customers to return most items within 30 days of receipt. This policy offers peace of mind, as you can shop with confidence knowing that you can return a product if it does not meet your expectations. It's important to read the return policy for each item before purchasing, as certain products may have different restrictions or fees. By understanding Amazon's return policy, you can make hassle-free returns if needed.
18. Explore Amazon Prime Day
Amazon Prime Day is an annual shopping event exclusive to Prime members that offers incredible deals and discounts across numerous product categories. This highly anticipated event usually takes place in July and lasts for 48 hours. By participating in Amazon Prime Day, you can access exclusive deals and enjoy substantial savings on a wide array of products. Be sure to mark your calendars and take advantage of this prime opportunity to snag your desired items at unbeatable prices.
In conclusion, Amazon and Amazon Prime offer numerous hacks and features that can enhance your shopping experience, save you money, and provide access to a vast selection of products. By utilizing the 18 must-know hacks mentioned in this article, you can unlock the power of Amazon and make the most out of your online shopping endeavors. Whether it's comparing prices, utilizing Amazon Prime benefits, or taking advantage of exclusive deals, these strategies will help you optimize your shopping experience on Amazon and ensure you get the best value for your money. So go ahead, dive into the world of Amazon, and start unlocking the power it holds.