{"id":1167,"date":"2025-07-05T16:03:44","date_gmt":"2025-07-05T16:03:44","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/ft365.org\/index.php\/2025\/07\/05\/im-skipping-prime-day-heres-where-i-shop-instead-to-save-bankrate\/"},"modified":"2025-07-05T16:03:44","modified_gmt":"2025-07-05T16:03:44","slug":"im-skipping-prime-day-heres-where-i-shop-instead-to-save-bankrate","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"http:\/\/ft365.org\/index.php\/2025\/07\/05\/im-skipping-prime-day-heres-where-i-shop-instead-to-save-bankrate\/","title":{"rendered":"I’m Skipping Prime Day. Here’s Where I Shop Instead To Save | Bankrate"},"content":{"rendered":"
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Propaganda I\u2019m not falling for: Prime Day.<\/p>\n

Amazon\u2019s annual bonanza is July 8-11, 2025, but I won\u2019t be adding anything to my cart. In general, I don\u2019t believe in spending more to save more. Plus, the company is often steeped in controversy around its labor practices and environmental impact, as indicated by a recent weeklong boycott.<\/p>\n

With nearly half of Americans in debt, according to Bankrate\u2019s 2025 Credit Card Debt Report, it\u2019s worth considering whether Prime Day aligns with your budget and values. If you\u2019d like to spend your dollars elsewhere while still saving money, here are a few ideas.<\/p>\n

5 places to shop instead of Amazon<\/h2>\n

1. Credit card issuer shopping portals<\/h3>\n

Most major card issuers offer their version of a shopping portal where you can find deals and earn rewards on purchases. Amex Offers, Shop Through Chase, Capital One Shopping, Citi Shop and airline credit card portals are all great options for putting money back in your wallet as you shop.<\/p>\n

Make sure you visit the shopping portal first and follow the link to the retailer\u2019s website in order to reap the benefits. You also might be able to add a browser extension that automatically searches for coupons and applies your rewards.<\/p>\n

2. Cash back shopping websites and apps<\/h3>\n

Companies like Rakuten, TopCashback, Ibotta and Upside are free to use and offer cash back on purchases made through their website or app. Harlan Vaughn, Bankrate senior editor, has earned $435 since he started buying with Rakuten.<\/p>\n

\u201cI use Rakuten to earn extra cash back for online purchases I\u2019d be making anyway,\u201d he explains. \u201cIt\u2019s as simple as clicking a link. As a bonus, the Rakuten browser extension will sometimes automatically apply coupons or recommend the same product sold cheaper at another store for unexpected savings.\u201d<\/p>\n

You can also earn American Express Membership Rewards points through Rakuten.<\/p>\n

3. Wholesale clubs<\/h3>\n

Buying in bulk can help save both money and packaging, a win\/win for you and the environment. With membership prices ranging from $50 to $130 a year, you could spend less per item on everyday groceries and household goods.<\/p>\n

Just keep in mind that, when buying in bulk, it\u2019s easy to end up with more than you need. I recommend strategizing how you\u2019ll cook and consume the products you buy to avoid waste. I also stick to a list \u2014 it helps me resist grabbing things that catch my eye but would rack up my total at checkout.<\/p>\n

4. Thrift stores<\/h3>\n

Although the options above can save you money, they could still lead to overconsumption, depending on your spending habits. I\u2019m a fan of secondhand shopping, or thrifting, because it keeps items out of landfills while limiting my ability to impulse buy.<\/p>\n

It might take a couple of visits to a thrift store or online reseller to find the right pair of shoes or piece of furniture you\u2019re looking for. But when you find it, it\u2019ll boast a more affordable price tag than the brand-new, retail version. Plus, shopping secondhand lessens your carbon footprint. While you can\u2019t find groceries at a consignment store, you\u2019d be surprised by how many everyday necessities are on the shelves.<\/p>\n

5. Small businesses<\/h3>\n

If your goal is to step away from megacorporations and support the local economy, try shopping at small businesses. You might pay a few extra dollars for the product or shipping, but the quality and customer service you receive could make it worth your while.<\/p>\n

Plus, positive reviews and social media engagement are free for you to give \u2014 and can positively impact your local retailers and restaurants!<\/p>\n

How \u201cspaving\u201d on Prime Day affects your budget<\/h2>\n

Spending to save, or \u201cspaving,\u201d can feel like you\u2019re getting a great deal. \u201cExamples include buy-two-get-one-free deals and offers for free shipping when you spend a set minimum amount,\u201d explains Karen Bennett, Bankrate senior writer.<\/p>\n

But even with a discount, you\u2019re still spending more than you would\u2019ve. And when your expenses add up to higher than your income, it can lead to debt.<\/p>\n

\u201cIt\u2019s easy to get caught up in the hype and stock up on things you don\u2019t truly need,\u201d Bennett says. \u201cBefore clicking \u2018Buy now\u2019 it pays to ask yourself a few questions:<\/p>\n