You Could Save Hundreds of Dollars Annually by Taking This Extra Step When Shopping Online

I like to shop online because it's convenient, saves me time, and I can shop around for the best deals. Coupon codes have been an excellent way for me to maximize my savings when placing online orders. You're likely spending more than necessary if you're not using promo codes at checkout. Find out how virtual coupons could save you hundreds of dollars each year.

Promo codes can unlock additional discounts

Many people shop when their favorite retailers are having a sale. In addition to shopping during a sale, there are other ways to save money when shopping online. I like to use promo codes or virtual coupon codes.

Many retailers have coupon codes that customers can enter at checkout to save money on their orders. If you like getting a great deal, it's worthwhile to see if you can find a coupon code.

Before placing an online order, I check to see whether there's a coupon code I can use to get a discount. If a code is available, I enter it during the checkout process. This makes it easy for me to get what I need while keeping more money in the bank.

How to find online coupon codes for your favorite retailers

Here are three easy ways to find promo codes quickly:

• You can use one of the best coupon apps like Rakuten.
• You can search online and visit websites like RetailMeNot.
• You can download a shopping browser extension like Honey.

These resources make it easy to find coupon codes quickly. Some retailers also advertise coupons on their websites or in their email newsletters. If you're a brand loyalist, check to see if your favorite stores promote discount coupon codes that could help you save more.

Here's how I maximize my savings when shopping online

Unsure how to use online coupon codes?

I'll show you the steps I take when shopping online to maximize my savings.

1. I add the items I want to buy to my shopping cart

First, I add the items I want to buy to my shopping cart. I do this after making sure I'm getting a good deal. If I'm ordering one specific item, I might choose the retailer with the best price. If it feels like I'll be overpaying and it's not something I need right away, I might wait to order. If I can time my purchase to order when there's a sale, I can spend less money overall.

2. I look for coupon codes

Before placing my order, I look for active promo codes that could make my purchase more affordable. I check my Rakuten browser extension or RetailMeNot to see if any codes are available. Sometimes coupon codes aren't available, but I always take a minute or two to check.

3. I enter payment details and place my order

Once the coupon has been applied to my order, I enter my payment details. I'm also a big fan of earning credit card rewards, so I'm strategic about which credit card I use to pay for my order. Using one of the best cash back credit cards is a great way to earn valuable rewards. Once I enter my payment details, I review the details of my order and place it. It's that easy!

Don't ignore savings opportunities

Shopping online during a big sale is one way to keep more money in your bank account. But make sure you take advantage of additional ways to save money. Using virtual coupons at checkout could help you get a better deal on your next online purchase. Check out our free personal finance resources for additional tips to save more money.