Shopping online doesn't mean paying full price. With the right strategies and tools, you can consistently find better deals, stack discounts, and make your money go further on everyday purchases.

Price comparison tools are your first line of defense against overpaying. Browser extensions like Honey, Capital One Shopping, and Rakuten automatically scan for discount codes and alert you to better prices elsewhere. Before checking out, run a quick search for the product across major retailers. Prices can vary by 20-30% for identical items, and a two-minute comparison can save significant money.

Timing matters when hunting for deals online. Flash sales and seasonal promotions follow predictable patterns. Electronics drop during Black Friday and Prime Day. Fitness gear goes on sale in January. Outdoor equipment discounts peak in late summer. Sign up for email alerts from your favorite retailers, but use a dedicated email address to keep promotions organized and avoid inbox overload.

Cashback shopping adds another layer of savings. Platforms like Rakuten, TopCashback, and credit card portals offer 1-10% back on purchases you'd make anyway. Stack these with store sales and online coupons for maximum impact. Some credit cards offer rotating bonus categories that can push cashback even higher when shopping at specific retailers.

Don't overlook the abandoned cart strategy. Add items to your cart, then leave the site without purchasing. Many retailers send follow-up emails with discount codes to complete your order. Also check if the retailer offers student, military, or first-time buyer discounts. These promotions rarely appear on the main site but can be found with a quick search.