How to Save Money - rebates, coupons and more

Saving Tip 1: Use Discount Codes

Ever bought something online and been prompted to key in the discount code? Just what are these secret codes and where can you find them?
The discounts work for online sales only and allow you to take typically 10-25% off at the checkout. Deals come and go, so check the fine print for exclusions and validity dates.

Where to find Discount Codes

Look for codes at www.retailmenot.com, a useful Melbourne-based company that lists more than 20,000 international stores in alphabetical order, including everything from Amazon to Victoria’s Secret.

Another good site is www.discountcodes.com.au, which lists limited-time discounts and deals for Australian websites including Dell, WeightWatchers, Rebel Sport and The Wine Society. We found a code for Dell that could save up to $300 on the new Vostro notebook range.

For deals on credit cards and travel insurance, visit www.shopau.com.au.

Saving Tip 2: Rebates

When you buy at www.buckscoop.com.au, it pays you back. No, really. The site collects commissions from online merchants – from travel to fashion to beauty – and shares part of the commission with you through cashback offers.

Recent rebates included 8% on Roses Only, up to $21 off Virgin Mobile and 22.5% off Skype products. To get your rebate, sign on for free membership with Buckscoop, then browse the stores. Click on a store’s link and make a purchase; the cashback is credited to your PayPal account. The downside: cashback, yes; instant credit, no – it can take up to three months for the money to reach you.

Other sites worth considering include: www.ozbargain.com.au, www.topbargains.com.au, www.rewardlover.com and www.moneybackco.com

If you’re in the market for bargain electronics or travel on international sites, you could do worse than checking out www.fatwallet.com. 

Saving Tip 3: Coupons

A good resource for shopper-docket-style free coupons is www.whypayfullprice.com.au. Type in your postcode to discover coupons for everything from local restaurants to beauty salons. You can simply print off the coupons and away you go.

We found coupons for a $1 hot drink at Gloria Jean’s Coffees and a $400 cashback offer on home loans organised through The Mortgage Professionals.

Also worth a look are www.hotdockets.com.au