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ZDNET's key takeaways
Online shopping is easy but can lead to overspending.
Smart shopping habits make checkout decisions more intentional.
This three tips help maximize my savings every time.
As ZDNET's deals and shopping editor, it's safe to say that I've covered more than a sale or two. It's also safe to assume that I love few things more than a great deal (and sharing them with ZDNET's readers). But shopping online isn't always as easy as it seems -- especially if you're trying to save money.
Gone are the days of mobs outside stores on Black Friday for coveted toys and TVs, but the principle behind standing in line for these products remains: shop wisely and shop quickly. Thankfully, smart shopping can happen 24/7/365, and there's no shortage of ways to do so. But we live in a world that's pretty click-happy, and it's easy to forget you're spending money without the physical act of tapping a card or handing over cash.
Also: Samsung will give you a free 65-inch TV right now - here's how to qualify for the deal
That's why I curated a personal "pre-checkout" checklist I walk through before finalizing any online purchases. Of course, as a shopping editor, this list happens in tandem with detailed deliberation and research (I study nearly all of my buys), but it's a great starting point if you're looking to become more intentional with your online purchases and save as much as you can.
Three things to do before clicking 'buy' online
1. Apply promo codes or sign-up offers
Never check out before looking to see if there's a promo code floating on the internet that you can use. In 2025, I'd hope this was more second nature than not, but I know many family and friends who skip out on trying to save some cash. Sure, you may not be able to score a promo code every time you shop online -- but it is worth it to quickly try.
Most online retailers offer first-time customers a discount, typically 10 to 15% off. Plus, if you're lucky, there are often influencer-exclusive promo codes or other offers floating around for you to grab. And if you're a student, get signed up on Student Beans or Unidays ASAP. You're seriously missing out on guaranteed savings year-round if you don't.
Also: You can still buy refurbished Meta Ray-Ban smart glasses for $76 off - how to find deals
To find codes, I usually Google "promo codes" and the name of wherever I happen to be shopping. Then I scour Retail Me Not or other coupon sites until I find one that works. More often than not, there is an offer out there. And if you're trying to avoid the spam generated by signing up for retailer discounts via email or text, here are two extra tips:
Tip 1 : Set up a "shopping" email account and use it for all online purchases and offers. This will filter the deluge of retailer emails out of your personal inbox.
: Set up a "shopping" email account and use it for all online purchases and offers. This will filter the deluge of retailer emails out of your personal inbox. Tip 2: As soon as you use a first-time promo code that requires an email and phone sign-up, text STOP to the automated number and unsubscribe from your shopping email (if you'd like). You can do this later, but I find it easier to do it all in one go. Remember: Subscribe, shop, save, unsubscribe. It's easy.
2. Check for cash back offers or Rakuten savings
I've written a complete guide on how I shop using Rakuten, but essentially, the rule is to never check out without considering cashback offers on credit cards you may own or via platforms like Rakuten.
Also: I've used Rakuten for a year and earned nearly $500 - here's how
I highly recommend everyone shop with Rakuten (it's free). The cash back adds up, but you must remember to enable the service or shop through the app. I've incorporated this step into my "pre-checkout checklist," and it's helped me save nearly $500 this year. Bottom line: don't leave any money on the table, even when it's a small percentage of cashback savings. Money is money. You can spend $50 and get nothing back, or $50 and get 5% back. Last I checked, $2.50 is better than $0.
A close up of the Rakuten website. Kayla Solino/ZDNET
3. Scan your calendar
This tip is more intuitive, but before you purchase online, remind yourself of any upcoming major holidays or events that could result in increased savings. In my experience, if you're buying direct from a retailer's website, most brands offer sales or discount codes during various holidays (including ones like Presidents Day and Memorial Day), plus retailer-specific discounts like anniversary sales.
So if you're thinking about checking out, but a potential holiday offer could be on the horizon, it may be worth waiting if it isn't an essential item you need immediately.
For example, I had been eyeing some seasonally appropriate fall phone cases a few weeks ago, but figured several retailers may offer Labor Day deals. I was correct. In fact, Casely (one of my favorite phone case brands) is still running a Labor Day BOGO sales event for a few more days.
Also: My favorite affordable phone cases are BOGO free (including for the new Google Pixel 10 series)
It may be harder to pinpoint when savings start and end for larger retailers like Walmart, Target, or Best Buy. However, remember that larger retailers usually run longer and larger sales.
Of course, you can add or subtract any of these steps or create your own pre-checkout ritual, but these are my favorite suggestions that have saved me cash over the years. Happy shopping!