I need to start this article by saying that I grew up in a house with the most frugal dad that ever walked the face of the earth. Lowering his electric bill was built into his DNA and some of it definitely rubbed off on me. With some clever strategies and a bit of creativity, you can significantly cut down on your energy costs without sacrificing too much comfort. Let’s get to it…

1. Readjust Your Thermostat & Mindset

Your HVAC unit is by-far the biggest energy suck in your home, hands-down.

The absolute best way to save money on your electric bill is to adjust your thermostat in the summer and winter.

If you’re serious about lowering your bill, try setting it at 64 degrees in the Winter and 78 degrees in the Summer.

In the Summer, you’ll save 3% on your bill for every degree over 72.

In the Winter, set it down to 60 degrees at night and then turn it back up in the morning. And before you leave a comment, “catching up” isn’t actually an issue.

The time and energy your furnace uses to raise the temperature is far less than if it had been running all night, so you’re always saving energy and money.

The only exception is if heat loss to the outside is greater than what your system can provide, in which case, unfortunately, you’re losing efficiency regardless.

PRO TIP: MAKE SURE YOUR POWER ISN’T BEING STOLEN

Ensure no one is using your power without permission. Locate your electric meter, turn off all your breakers, and check that the meter stops running. If it doesn’t, investigate the cause. This happens more often than you might think and is worth checking out.

2. The Fan Rotation Trick

Most people know that ceiling fans help cool in the summer, but did you know that they can keep you warm in the winter, too?

During winter months, set your fan to rotate clockwise at a low speed.

This pushes warm air that rises to the ceiling down into the room, maintaining warmth and reducing the need for extra heating.

3. Smart Power Strips to Combat Phantom Power

Phantom power—energy used by devices even when they’re turned off—accounts for a surprisingly large part of your energy bill.

Combat this with smart power strips that turn off energy flow when devices aren’t in use.

Plugging things like TVs, game consoles, and kitchen gadgets into smart power strips is an easy way to stop unnecessary electricity drain.

See Also: Lower Your Bills By Negotiating – Here’s How

PRO TIP: EMBRACE ROOM-SPECIFIC COMFORT

Instead of heating or cooling your entire home, consider setting up zones. Use space heaters or fans in specific rooms where you spend most of your time.

Smart thermostats (more on these later) or even simple space heaters can allow you to focus warmth or cool air exactly where it’s needed, reducing the strain on your HVAC system.

4. Insulate Everything—Not Just the Walls

We know that good wall insulation is essential, especially in very cold climates.

But did you know that smaller insulation steps can make a huge difference, too?

Insulate around electrical outlets, cover exposed pipes, and even use draft blockers for doors and windows.

These little moves keep conditioned air in and cold or hot air out, reducing your HVAC system’s workload.

PRO TIP: ATTIC IS THE MOST IMPORTANT

Check the depth of the insulation in your attic. If it’s 3″ or less consider adding more, up to 12″ if you can afford it.

You lose A LOT of heat through your ceiling if you don’t have sufficient attic insulation. Way more than through your walls.

5. Maximize Sunlight

Sunlight is free energy, so let it work for you. During winter, open the blinds and curtains on your south-facing windows to let the sun’s warmth in.

During summer, keep them closed to block out heat and consider planting small trees in front of them.

Layering this with shades or blackout curtains can amplify the effect, keeping you comfortable without the need for artificial climate control.

See Also: Clever Ways to Use Social Media to Save Money

6. Run Appliances at Night

Many power companies have lower rates for energy used during off-peak hours, typically late at night.

Schedule heavy-duty appliances like washers, dryers, and dishwashers to run during these times.

Not only can this lower your bill, but it also spreads out the load on the grid, which can be beneficial during peak energy demand periods.

7. Adjust Your Water Heater Temperature

The default setting on most water heaters is around 140°F, which is often hotter than necessary.

Lowering it to 120°F can save on heating costs without affecting daily tasks like showering or doing laundry.

If you’re going on vacation, set your water heater to the lowest setting or even “vacation mode” to avoid heating unused water.

GO EXTREME: “LIVE BY CANDLELIGHT” EVENINGS

Commit to one or two nights a week where you don’t use any electric lights in your home, opting for candlelight instead. Candles (or even oil lamps) can create a cozy, old-world vibe while helping you get into the habit of conserving electricity. Bonus: it’s a great excuse for a quiet night reading or spending time with family.

8. Use Your Oven Wisely

Ovens consume a lot of energy, especially when preheating.

If possible, use smaller appliances like toaster ovens, air fryers, or slow cookers, which use significantly less electricity.

And when you do use your oven, try to cook multiple dishes at once to make the most of the heat. This way, your oven works double-duty with the same energy output.

Also, in the winter, always leave the oven door open when you’re done cooking and get that warm air in the kitchen. It drives me crazy when my kids leave the oven door closed and then complain about why it’s so cold in the house.

9. Dryer Balls and Line-Drying Clothes

Reduce your dryer’s energy use by using wool or rubber dryer balls—they help clothes dry faster by separating them, which allows more air to circulate.

On warmer days, consider line-drying items.

Even partially drying heavy fabrics outside before finishing them in the dryer can save energy and money.

10. Turn Down the Brightness on Your Screens

Many people don’t realize that high brightness settings on screens (TVs, computers, tablets) can increase energy consumption.

Lower the brightness on all your devices to save power and reduce eye strain.

For an even bigger impact, put screens on a “sleep” timer so they shut off automatically after a set period of inactivity.

GO EXTREME: GO OFF THE GRID PART-TIME

Disconnect from the grid during certain hours of the day, especially during peak usage times. To make this work, invest in a battery-powered system, solar charger, or a small generator that allows you to run essentials independently. By reducing peak-time electricity consumption, you might qualify for lower rates and avoid energy surcharges.

11. Smart Thermostat for Automated Savings

Investing in a smart thermostat can pay off quickly.

Many models allow you to set specific temperature schedules and will even adjust automatically based on your habits and local weather patterns.

Some can be controlled remotely from your phone, letting you adjust the temperature even when you’re not home.

12. Invest in LED Lighting—The Right Way

LED lights are up to 80% more efficient than traditional bulbs, but their placement and usage matter, too.

Use task lighting, such as desk or reading lamps, rather than lighting an entire room for small tasks.

Choose LED bulbs with dimming capabilities and invest in “daylight” or “warm white” options that suit the time of day and atmosphere, which reduces the need for additional lighting.

13. Go for Cold Washes and Shorter Showers

Washing your clothes in cold water reduces the energy needed to heat the water and is usually gentler on fabrics.

After your heater, your homes electric hot water heater uses the most electricity. So when it comes to hot showers, aim for shorter showers and use a low-flow showerhead, which reduces both water and water-heating expenses.

Better yet, start taking Navy Showers and your hot water usage will go WAY DOWN.

A Navy shower is when you let the water warm up, then immediately hop under and get fully wet. Then turn the water off and lather yourself up with soap and shampoo. Last, turn the water back on and rinse off.

Aim for having the water actually running for about 90 seconds and your hot water usage will GO WAY DOWN.

GO EXTREME: HEAT-FREE COOKING

Avoid using any electric or gas-based heat for cooking. Instead, focus on raw foods like salads, smoothies, and cold soups. When you want something cooked, try methods like using a sun oven, propane BBQ, or fire pit for outdoor cooking. This extreme approach can reduce energy consumption, especially in the summer when cooking often increases indoor cooling needs.

14. Unplug Chargers When Not in Use

Phone and laptop chargers left plugged in consume energy even when they’re not actively charging.

Unplug chargers when not in use, or keep them connected to a smart power strip that will cut off power automatically when they’re not drawing energy.

15. Strategically Place Mirrors

Mirrors can be powerful energy savers when used correctly.

Place mirrors on walls adjacent to windows to reflect natural light further into a room.

This can reduce the need for artificial lighting and even add a touch of decor to your home.

PRO TIP: INVEST IN A WHOLE HOUSE FAN

The best thing I ever did to lower my summer cooling bill was to install a whole house fan in the ceiling of our hallway. They work by pulling the cool outside air into your home in the mornings and evenings when it’s cooled off. You open a few windows, turn it on, and enjoy the cool air as it lowers the temperature of your home.

Note: I live in a area with a dry heat. If you live where it’s humid, the whole house fan is not as effective.

16. Don’t Overfill the Refrigerator

A packed refrigerator has to work harder to keep everything cool, which increases energy consumption.

Keep your fridge well-organized and avoid overstuffing it to allow cold air to circulate efficiently.

Regularly clean the condenser coils, as dust buildup can cause the fridge to use more energy.

GO EXTREME: SWITCH TO HAND-POWERED APPLIANCES

Try swapping out electric-powered appliances for manual, human-powered alternatives. For example, you could use a hand-cranked coffee grinder, hand whisk instead of an electric mixer, or even a manual lawn mower instead of an electric or gas one. These choices can cut back on energy consumption while giving you a mini-workout in the process.

17. Use Your Dishwasher Efficiently

Avoid pre-rinsing dishes, which not only wastes water but also undermines the dishwasher’s energy-saving features.

Only run the dishwasher when it’s full, and if your model has an “eco” setting, use it.

Air-dry dishes instead of using the heated drying option for even more savings.

PRO TIP: THE DISHWASHER DILEMMA

If your dishwasher is older than 8 years, you might be better off handwashing dishes. Handwashing uses more hot water, but older dishwashers likely heat the water even further, which might make them less efficient overall.

18. Adjust Furniture Placement

Furniture placement can impact heating and cooling.

Make sure air vents aren’t blocked by sofas, bookshelves, or curtains, as this restricts airflow and makes your HVAC system work harder.

In winter, keep furniture away from windows and doors to avoid chilly drafts.

19. Install Low-E Film on Windows

Low-emissivity (Low-E) window film helps block UV rays in the summer and retains warmth in the winter.

It’s an affordable, easy-to-install solution for windows that see a lot of direct sunlight, helping keep indoor temperatures stable without heavy use of your heating or cooling system.

GO EXTREME: UNPLUG THE HOT WATER HEATER

Commit to heating water only when you need it. Disconnect your water heater and use alternative methods, like heating small amounts of water on the stove or in a solar water heater outdoors for tasks like washing dishes. This move can be a huge energy saver, especially in warmer months when hot water is less essential.

20. Mind the Gap with Doors and Windows

Even the smallest gaps around doors and windows can let in drafts, making your HVAC system work overtime.

Install weatherstripping on doors and windows, and use door sweeps to block air leaks. It’s a quick fix that can make a noticeable difference in energy use.

21. Set Your Freezer Correctly

The recommended freezer temperature is around 0°F. Setting it lower doesn’t make food any safer but does increase energy use.

Keep your freezer at the correct temperature, and avoid overstocking to maintain efficiency.

22. Embrace Layering Indoors

In winter, try wearing extra layers rather than cranking up the heat. Wearing a sweater, socks, and even a cozy blanket can reduce the need for constant heating.

Keep fleece throws and warm slippers handy for family members, especially if you lower the thermostat at night.

And sleep with extra blankets because you NEED to lower the thermostat at night if you have any chance of lowering your electric bill. The nights is when your heater has to work the hardest to compensate for the cold.

GO EXTREME: DOWNSIZE YOUR LIVING SPACE

Consider moving your daily activities into one or two rooms and only heating, cooling, and lighting those areas. In extreme cases, some people create a “micro-living space” within their homes (think one cozy room for all daily functions) to conserve energy. By focusing all energy needs in a limited area, you can cut down on utility usage across the rest of your home.

23. Try Out Thermal Curtains

Thermal curtains provide insulation by trapping air between the window and the curtain, keeping cold air out in the winter and hot air out in the summer.

They can significantly reduce the need for extra heating or cooling and come in a variety of colors and styles to match your decor.

24. Optimize Your HVAC Filters

Dirty HVAC filters reduce air quality and make your system work harder, using more energy in the process.

Change filters regularly and consider high-efficiency filters to maximize airflow. It’s a simple maintenance task that can have a big impact on energy costs.

GO EXTREME: COLD WATER SHOWER ROUTINE

Skip the hot water altogether and make cold showers a daily ritual. Not only will this cut down on your water heater’s energy use, but it might also wake you up faster and is often touted as having health benefits, like boosting circulation and improving mood.

On a side-note, my Dad used to take cold showers…but he’s also the most frugal human being I’ve ever met.

25. Decorate for Efficiency

Decor can be functional as well as stylish.

Hang tapestries or rugs on walls and place thick area rugs on floors to add insulation to rooms, reducing the need for extra heating.

It’s a great way to bring warmth into your home without relying solely on the thermostat.

Ask the Reader: How do you lower the electric bill at your house? Let me know your clever tips and I’ll add them to my article.

By Kyle James

Walmart is one of America’s largest retailers, and it has accumulated its fair share of myths, urban legends, and even some humorous lore. Despite these stories, Walmart remains a shopping destination for millions who want affordability, convenience, and a vast selection of products. Let’s delve into some of the most common myths, surprising ways to save money, funny anecdotes, and urban legends associated with this retail giant.

Myth #1: Flipped Products on Top Shelf Aren’t for Sale

The Myth: “Walmart flips around products on the top shelf so you won’t buy them.”

The Truth: In actuality, Walmart does this to try and draw your eyes to a product and have it stand out, especially if they’re overstocked and want to move a product quickly.

They’ll also do it if they want you to buy the older stock first and flipped around stuff that has a further out expiration date.

Savings Tip: Grab the product off the top shelf, especially if it’s flipped around, and you’ll get a fresher item that won’t expire in the near future.

NOT A MYTH: CLEARANCE ITEMS OFTEN HAVE WRONG PRICE ON THEM

Items are often discounted further than the Walmart shelf tag shows, but the price reduction isn’t always advertised. To find these hidden deals, download the Walmart app and scan items in-store. Sometimes clearance items ring up at even lower prices than marked.

This works best in categories like electronics, seasonal items, and clothing. You might find items up to 90% off that weren’t advertised as on sale.

Myth #2: Walmart Limits How Many Items You Can Buy

The Myth: “Walmart has a strict limit on the number of items you can buy in a single transaction.”

The Truth: While Walmart does sometimes limit the purchase of certain high-demand items (like electronics on Black Friday or specific products during supply shortages), there’s no universal rule restricting the total number of items you can buy at once.

Shoppers can fill their carts as much as they want, although in rare cases, limits are put in place.

Funny Twist: Some people believe Walmart has limits because of stories where shoppers tried to buy entire shelves of products (like snacks or seasonal decorations) and were politely asked to “leave a little for others.” This has led to the myth that Walmart enforces transaction limits across the board.

See Also: Smart Ways to Save the Next Time You Shop at Walmart

Myth #3: “Hidden Discounts” at Midnight

The Myth: “If you shop at Walmart at midnight, you’ll get access to special discounts or ‘hidden’ deals.”

The Truth: While shopping during late-night hours can mean less crowded aisles, there are no exclusive discounts that magically appear at midnight.

Walmart’s discounts are generally scheduled as Rollbacks or marked on clearance items, visible to all shoppers during regular store hours.

The midnight discount myth likely stems from certain items occasionally being restocked or rotated after hours, which can lead to finding previously unavailable deals, but it’s not an intentional policy.

Funny Twist: Some die-hard bargain hunters stay up late hoping to snag an elusive midnight discount, but they’re more likely to find better deals by checking the store’s clearance aisles or looking for markdowns during seasonal sales.

Myth #4: The In-Store Brand Is Low Quality

The Myth: “The Great Value and Equate brands are low-quality versions of name-brand items.”

The Truth: Walmart’s private label products, like Great Value (for food) and Equate (for health and wellness), are designed to provide quality at a lower price point.

Many of these items are produced by the same manufacturers behind popular name brands.

Savings Tip: Try out Walmart’s private label items for staples like pasta, canned goods, and personal care products.

You may be pleasantly surprised at the quality, especially given the cost savings.

Check out online reviews or join local social media groups where people discuss which Walmart-brand items are the best.

See Also: 3 Ways to Make Money Off Your Walmart Receipts

Myth #5: Cents Column on Price Tags Reveals Discounts

The Myth: “The cents column on Walmart’s price tags tells you if an item is on clearance, about to be discontinued, or specially discounted.”

The Truth: There’s a popular belief that if an item’s price ends in a specific number, like $0.97 or $0.88, it indicates a hidden discount status—such as a clearance, a discontinued product, or a special markdown.

While some stores, like Costco, do use specific cents endings to signal such things, Walmart doesn’t consistently follow this practice across all stores or departments.

Pricing at Walmart is typically based on standard markups, or to make you feel like you’re getting a great deal, rather than a “hidden code”.

Reality Check: Walmart’s Rollbacks and clearance tags are generally clearly marked with bright signage, so you don’t need to decipher cents to spot discounts.

However, you can often find deeply discounted items by checking the clearance aisles, especially after holiday seasons or during end-of-year sales.

Myth #6: All Walmart Stores Are the Same

The Myth: “Every Walmart is just like every other Walmart.”

The Truth: While Walmart stores are designed to have a consistent layout and experience, not all stores are identical.

Walmart Supercenters, Neighborhood Markets, and Walmart Express each offer different selections and vary in size and design.

Even store policies can sometimes differ slightly based on the region.

Savings Tip: Different locations have unique clearance sections where they discount overstocked or seasonal items. Always ask store associates about any hidden clearance sections.

Neighborhood Markets often have markdowns on fresh produce and meats near the end of the day, offering excellent deals on fresh food.

See Also: Clever Savings Hacks for ALL Walmart Shoppers

Myth #7: The Best Deals Are Only During the Holidays

The Myth: “You have to wait for Black Friday or Christmas for Walmart’s best deals.”

The Truth: Walmart offers deals throughout the year, not just during the holidays.

Clearance events happen regularly, and “Rollback” prices are available on popular items all year long.

Savings Tip: Look out for clearance events at the end of each season.

For instance, back-to-school items often go on sale in September, and summer gear can be found at discounts starting in August.

You can also check out Walmart’s online clearance section for exclusive web-only deals.

Myth #8: Walmart is Always Open 24/7

The Myth: “Walmart is open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.”

The Truth: While some Walmart stores used to be open around the clock, this changed after the COVID-19 pandemic, when many stores cut back their hours.

Most locations now operate on a more traditional schedule, closing overnight.

However, hours can vary by location, so it’s always best to check before making a late-night trip.

Fun Fact: Some Walmart stores have returned to extended hours, and a few even remain open 24/7, but these are rare and location-dependent.

NOT A MYTH: SHOP ON WEEKDAY MORNINGS

Early in the day, during the week, Walmart restocks shelves and updates clearance items. You’ll have first dibs on fresh markdowns, especially in high-demand sections like produce, meat, and dairy.

Early morning is also quieter, so you can shop more efficiently without crowds, and you’ll have a better chance of finding clearance items before they sell out.

See Also: We Breakdown the Complicated Walmart Return Policy

Myth #9: They Tracks Your Every Move

The Myth: “Walmart has sophisticated technology that tracks you as you move through the store to monitor your spending habits.”

The Truth: While Walmart does have security cameras and loss-prevention measures, it’s not tracking every shopper’s exact movements or purchases on an individual level in the way some rumors claim.

It does use general data collection to analyze shopping trends, and it tracks online behavior more than in-store behavior.

Fun Fact: The self-checkout lanes can feel like you’re under surveillance, but that’s mostly to prevent shoplifting rather than tracking your shopping habits.

Myth #10: They Accept Any and Every Coupon

The Myth: “You can bring any coupon to Walmart, and they’ll accept it.”

The Truth: Walmart has a specific coupon policy and doesn’t accept all coupons, especially if they seem suspicious or aren’t from verified sources.

Some shoppers mistakenly believe they can use extreme couponing tactics to get items for free or nearly free, but Walmart has strict policies to avoid fraud.

Savings Tip: You can still stack some manufacturer coupons with Walmart’s Rollback prices to save extra, but always check their policy online before attempting any extreme couponing tricks.

See Also: How to Find “Hidden” Walmart Clearance Deals

Myth #11: Walmart is Always the Cheapest Option

The Myth: “If you shop at Walmart, you’re guaranteed to get the lowest prices.”

The Truth: While Walmart is known for its affordability, it isn’t always the cheapest option for every item.

Many people assume Walmart will have the best deals on every product, but competitors like Target, Costco, and even Amazon sometimes offer better prices on specific items.

Savings Tip: Use price-comparison apps like Honey or ShopSavvy to check if you’re really getting the best price.

Walmart also has its “Rollbacks” and weekly deals that slash prices, so keep an eye on the store’s flyer.

If you’re serious about saving, consider signing up for Walmart’s Walmart+ membership, which offers benefits like free shipping, discounts on fuel, and early access to special offers.

Myth #12: Self-Checkout at Walmart is the Future

The Myth: “Walmart self-checkout is so popular that it’s going to overtake the actual “cashier powered” checkout lines.”

The Truth: Walmart is actually rethinking the self-checkout aisles and have removed them completely from some locations.

Turns out many customers hate the self-checkout lane and how often they encounter an error that a Walmart employee has to come over and fix.

As retail theft is still on the rise, it’s pretty obvious that self-checkout has something to do with this. I personally have seen someone steal from the self-checkout lane a half-dozen times. It typically involves slipping something into their bag that they don’t scan.

5 Urban Legends at Walmart…

Walmart’s status as a cultural icon has given rise to some entertaining and strange urban legends. Here are some of the funniest:

1. Closed Walmart Locations Have Become Re-Education Camps

There’s an odd rumor floating around the web that closed Walmart locations are becoming re-educations camps or a FEMA prison camp.

Just read the comments on my article detailing all of the Walmart locations that have closed in recent years. I can’t make this stuff up, the comments are pretty wild.

2. The Walmart “Secret Aisle”

One myth claims that every Walmart has a hidden aisle with extreme discounts on items like electronics, clothing, and big-ticket goods.

In reality, there’s no secret aisle – but there are clearance aisles (and sale sections that aren’t marked as such), usually located near the back of the store, where you can find discounted items.

3. Walmart “Greeters” Are Secret Security Guards

Some people believe that Walmart’s friendly greeters are actually undercover security guards tasked with spotting shoplifters.

While it’s true that Walmart places a high priority on store security, greeters are primarily there to help customers feel welcome, provide information, and answer questions.

4. The “People of Walmart” Phenomenon

There’s no denying Walmart has a reputation for attracting a colorful variety of shoppers, sometimes in bizarre or outrageous outfits.

The People of Walmart website celebrates this phenomenon, featuring photos of some truly memorable characters.

From people dressed in superhero costumes to individuals who clearly threw caution to the wind with their wardrobe choices, these sightings have cemented Walmart’s reputation as a place where “anything goes.”

5. The “Spaghetti Incident”

One humorous legend tells of a shopper who allegedly spilled an enormous pot of spaghetti in the middle of the grocery section, only for Walmart associates to use bags of rice and Great Value tomato sauce to mop it up.

It’s an absurd story, and there’s no proof it ever happened – but it’s funny to imagine nonetheless.

Ask the Reader: Did I miss any fun Walmart urban legends or shopping myths? Let me know and I’d love to investigate.

By Kyle James

As the holiday season approaches, sales and deals start popping up everywhere, from Black Friday and Cyber Monday to last-minute Christmas sales. So this made me wonder how clever shoppers (like us) can use AI-powered tools and apps to make the process easier, helping shoppers compare prices, track discounts, and maximize savings. Here’s a guide on how to leverage artificial intelligence this holiday shopping season and save big.

1. Use AI for Price Comparisons and Deal Hunting

Price comparison is key to ensuring you’re getting the best price on a product, especially in late November and December when prices seem to fluctuate constantly.

I discovered some very useful AI-driven price comparison tools that will enabling you to quickly check prices across multiple platforms in real time.

AI-Powered Price Comparison Tools

Honey

Honey is a popular browser extension that uses AI to automatically search for and apply the best coupon codes at checkout for over 30,000 websites.

Honey also has a very useful price-tracking feature that notifies users when an item’s price drops. This feature is helpful for identifying the best time to make a purchase during the holiday season.

I love Honey’s “Droplist” feature, it allows you to save specific items you’re interested in and receive alerts when their prices drops.

Capital One Shopping (formerly Wikibuy)

Capital One Shopping is another AI-driven tool for price comparison.

When browsing, it shows if a product is available at a lower price elsewhere and automatically applies discounts and coupons.

I really like Capital One Shopping’s ability to compare prices on Amazon with other retailers, this feature will be particularly helpful during the holiday season.

PRO TIP: ADD ITEMS TO CART, THEN ABANDON IT

When using the Capital One Shopping app (iOS, Android) always add items to your cart that you want to buy, then close out the app. Wait about 24 hours, open the app back, and they’ll typically bump up your cashback amount by up to 20%. Also, I’ve noticed that if you look at products on the app, but don’t buy them, their AI system will often email you a discount on those items in the 20% to 30% savings range.

Example above: I set up a little test using a Ralph Lauren shirt at Macys.com. I added the shirt to my cart and then closed the app on my iPhone, at the time Macy’s was offering me 2.5% cashback on the purchase. The next morning I had an email from Capital One telling me to come back and complete the purchase and get a whooping 18% cashback on the purchase. And before you ask, I know it says “Up to 18% Rewards” – specifically it was 7% rewards on Furniture, Mattresses, and Rugs – 7% on Macy’s Marketplace (shipped and sold by third party sellers) and 18% on Everything Else.

Try it, it works! It’s time to outsmart AI and use this hack to save some money on your Christmas shopping.

See Also: Black Friday Hacks to Maximize Your Savings

ShopSavvy App and Browser Extension

ShopSavvy uses AI to provide accurate price comparisons in-store and online.

You can do price comparisons, get price drop alerts, and even back-in-stock alerts on hot toys that you’re trying to purchase.

My favorite feature is the ability to scan barcodes in stores, and ShopSavvy will instantly show you prices from online retailers, making it easier to spot if a Black Friday deal is as good as it seems or if you could find it cheaper elsewhere.

PRO TIP: GO STRAIGHT TO CHATGPT

A great way to start your Black Friday research is to hit up ChatGPT and start asking about products you’re interested in buying. In the example above, I simply asked “what are the best black Friday deals at Walmart on HDTVs?”. I was given a handy little breakdown of some of the best deals that are already released. You can then ask for more details on particular brands, sizes, and retailers and really start to narrow down the deals that you might be interested in.

Dynamic Price Monitoring Tools

CamelCamelCamel

CamelCamelCamel is a site that I’ve talked about before, in short, it specializes in tracking prices on Amazon.

Its AI algorithms analyze Amazon’s historical price data to alert users when a product’s price drops.

This tool is handy for scoring Black Friday and Cyber Monday deals on Amazon, as it reveals trends that indicate the best time to buy.

Earny

Earny monitors price drops on your past purchases and helps you get refunds if a price goes down after you buy.

Earny connects to your email to analyze receipts, then alerts you if a product you purchased decreases in price.

It also assists with getting refunds or credits if the price changes within a retailer’s price protection period.

Slickdeals

Slickdeals aggregates deals and promotions across multiple categories.

By setting up alerts for products you’re interested in, you’ll be notified when there’s a sale or a new promotion.

Slickdeals also has a user-driven platform where members vote on deals, making it easier to find top deals for Black Friday and Cyber Monday.

2. Leveraging AI-Driven Shopping Bots

AI-powered shopping bots are a growing trend for holiday shopping, as they can help shoppers find deals quickly and efficiently.

These bots can monitor price drops, search for coupon codes, and even complete purchases on your behalf.

Dealspotr

Dealspotr’s AI aggregates thousands of deals from across the web and analyzes them based on user engagement to surface the best offers.

Dealspotr’s platform also offers a community where users share discount codes and exclusive sales.

HustleGotReal

HustleGotReal is another AI-driven bot that’s geared toward eBay, Amazon, and Shopify price drops.

This tool is excellent for comparing deals on popular gift items, especially during high-demand times like Cyber Monday and Black Friday.

3. Shop Smarter with Personalized AI Recommendations

AI recommendation engines can help you find products that match your budget, taste, and lifestyle, often surfacing deals that aren’t easily found otherwise.

Google Shopping

Google Shopping uses AI to personalize recommendations based on browsing habits.

When you search for a product, Google Shopping suggests the best prices across various sites, and it often flags discounted items.

I find that Google’s price comparison algorithms always shows updated information across hundreds of online retailers.

See Also: Smart Tips To Avoid Black Friday and Still Score a Great Deal

Amazon’s Alexa

If you have an Alexa-enabled device, you can ask it to search for holiday deals or even monitor specific items.

Alexa can remind you about sales and provide recommendations, especially for gifts that are popular or trending.

With Alexa, you can also set up reminders for price drops or enable notifications when items in your cart go on sale.

4. Use AI for Cashback and Rewards

Several AI-powered tools offer cashback rewards, making it possible to save even more on holiday purchases.

Cashback can stack with discounts and coupons, creating even greater savings.

Rakuten

Rakuten (formerly Ebates) uses AI to offer cashback on purchases made through their platform.

Rakuten works with thousands of retailers, including popular Black Friday and Cyber Monday destinations.

Its AI-driven cashback offers vary depending on the retailer and season, allowing you to maximize cashback during peak holiday sales.

Ibotta

Ibotta is another cashback app that uses AI to analyze your shopping habits, then offers rewards based on your preferences.

You can unlock cashback deals on groceries, retail purchases, and holiday gifts. Ibotta also runs special holiday promotions, which can add to the savings for Christmas shopping.

See Also: Check Out My Review of iBotta To See If It’s Right For You

RetailMeNot

RetailMeNot is a popular coupon app that finds and applies coupon codes at checkout and offers cashback at over 3,000 stores.

Its AI analyzes your cart and matches it to the best available discount code, making it easy to save without the hassle of manually searching for coupons.

During the holiday season, RetailMeNot often features exclusive discounts and cashback offers.

5. Subscription and Loyalty Programs Use AI Too

If you shop frequently at a particular store, leveraging their loyalty program or subscription service can help maximize savings.

Many stores offer special discounts and early access to sales during the holiday season for members.

Target Circle

Target Circle is a free rewards program that offers personalized deals and discounts.

The program uses AI to analyze your shopping habits and suggests deals that fit your preferences.

Target Circle also has exclusive discounts and early access to holiday promotions, making it beneficial for Christmas shopping.

Amazon Prime

Amazon Prime members get access to exclusive discounts and early access to Lightning Deals.

Amazon’s AI-powered recommendation engine also suggests Prime-exclusive offers based on your shopping habits.

For holiday shopping, Amazon Prime offers early access to Black Friday and Cyber Monday deals, allowing you to beat the rush.

See Also: The Grocery Stores That Drastically Lower Prices Near Best-By Dates

6. Find Unique Gifts with AI Curators

Finding unique gifts for friends and family can be challenging. AI-driven gift finders can provide creative suggestions tailored to the recipient’s interests.

Uncommon Goods Gift Finder

Uncommon Goods uses AI to recommend unique gifts that match the recipient’s personality and interests.

The Gift Finder prompts you to input details about the recipient, then curates a list of items that would appeal to them.

This is an excellent resource when seeking “one-of-a-kind” gifts as well as shopping for your father-in-law who seemingly “already has everything”.

GiftAdvisor

GiftAdvisor uses machine learning to analyze popular gift trends and match them to your preferences.

After inputting details about your recipient, GiftAdvisor suggests gifts based on AI-analyzed data of popular items.

GiftAdvisor is especially useful if you’re unsure what to buy for someone.

7. Optimize Travel and Shipping Costs with AI

For those traveling or shipping gifts during the holiday season, AI can also be a helpful tool for saving on travel and shipping expenses.

Hopper

Hopper uses AI to analyze flight and hotel prices, predicting the best time to book for optimal savings.

If you’re traveling during the holiday season, Hopper can help you secure the best deals on flights and accommodations, keeping travel expenses lower.

PRO TIP: USE CHATGPT TO SAVE AND PLAN HOLIDAY TRAVEL

I recently planned a trip from Denver, CO to Monterey, CA and was very impressed with how ChatGPT helped me find the best deals and gave me great budget friendly recommendations on not only the travel side of the equation, but also the food and entertainment side.

Here are the prompts I used and I recommend you try the same the next time you’re planning a family vacation.

• Cheapest flight options from Denver, CO to Monterey, CA (San Jose, CA) on December 23 – December 29.
• Best rental car deals in San Jose, CA for December 23 – December 29.
• Hotel deals near Monterey for family of 4 with 2 teenagers.
• Budget friendly things to do around Monterey.
• Budget friendly golf courses near Monterey.
• Best budget friendly places to eat in Monterey.

Takeaway: ChatGPT is not there yet on helping you find and book the cheapest airfare and rental car, but it’s excellent at helping you find budget friendly activities, restaurants, and even hotels.

ParcelTrack

ParcelTrack helps you keep tabs on multiple shipments, notifying you of delivery updates and potential delays.

Its AI-driven system consolidates tracking data, making it easier to stay informed about package arrivals.

Knowing when packages will arrive can also help avoid extra costs for expedited shipping.

See Also: Save By Knowing The Store-Brands That Make Name-Brands

8. Stay Organized with AI-Powered Shopping Lists

Keeping track of your shopping list is crucial during the holiday season to avoid overspending or missing any important items.

AI-powered tools can help you organize your list and track your budget.

AnyList

AnyList is an app that uses AI to sort and categorize your shopping list, making it easy to manage your holiday purchases.

You can set budgets, track items as you buy them, and even share your list with others to make group gift shopping simpler.

Google Keep

Google Keep can be a useful tool for staying organized and within budget.

You can create a list of gifts with allocated budgets, check off items as you purchase them, and set reminders.

Google’s AI assistant can help you update your list by voice and notify you of remaining tasks.

By leveraging AI-powered tools, you can streamline your holiday shopping experience, ensuring you get the best deals while sticking to your budget.

From AI-driven price comparisons and cashback rewards to dynamic price monitoring and curated gift suggestions, these tools offer actionable strategies for Black Friday, Cyber Monday, and beyond.

Ask the Reader: Do you have any “How to use AI to save money” ideas to add? Let me know in the comments as I’d love to add more tips to this article.

By Kyle James