The Best Rewards Programs for Frequent Shoppers: Maximize Your Savings
If you’re a frequent shopper, you’ve likely come across rewards programs promising perks for loyal customers. But with so many options out there, it can be tough to determine which ones are actually worth your time and spending. From cashback offers to exclusive discounts, the right rewards program can help you save hundreds of dollars a year.
Here’s a look at some of the best rewards programs for frequent shoppers that offer real value for your hard-earned money.
1. Amazon Prime
Amazon Prime isn’t just about faster shipping—it’s a full-blown rewards program that offers perks far beyond delivery. For an annual or monthly fee, you get access to Prime Video, Prime Music, and exclusive deals only for Prime members. Amazon also runs occasional sales, like Prime Day, where you can snag significant discounts.
Key Benefits:
- Free two-day shipping on millions of items.
- Access to Prime Video for movies and TV shows.
- Exclusive deals and discounts.
Pro Tip: If you’re a regular shopper on Amazon, the yearly subscription pays for itself in savings on shipping alone.
2. Target Circle
Target Circle is a free loyalty program that lets you earn 1% back on every purchase to redeem later. Additionally, members get personalized coupons, early access to sales, and a 5% birthday discount. It’s simple to use, and the rewards stack up quickly if you frequent Target for groceries, clothes, or home goods.
Key Benefits:
- 1% back on every purchase.
- Personalized deals and offers.
- Early access to exclusive sales.
Pro Tip: Combine Target Circle rewards with Target’s RedCard, which gives you an extra 5% off, making it one of the best programs for everyday savings.
3. Starbucks Rewards
If you can’t start your day without a cup of coffee, Starbucks Rewards can help you score free drinks, food, and merchandise. Every time you purchase through the Starbucks app, you earn stars, which can be redeemed for menu items. You’ll also get access to double-star days and member-exclusive deals.
Key Benefits:
- Earn stars for every dollar spent.
- Free refills on brewed coffee or tea.
- Free drinks or food on your birthday.
Pro Tip: Pay with a Starbucks gift card loaded into the app for maximum star-earning potential and added convenience.
4. Sephora Beauty Insider
For makeup and beauty enthusiasts, Sephora’s Beauty Insider program is a must. You earn points for every purchase, which can be redeemed for samples, deluxe products, or exclusive rewards. The program also offers birthday gifts, free beauty classes, and early access to sales.
Key Benefits:
- Earn points with every purchase.
- Access to free gifts and samples.
- Early access to exclusive events and sales.
Pro Tip: Save your points for special events like Sephora’s annual holiday sale, where your points go further in value.
5. Kroger Plus
Kroger Plus is a rewards program designed to help you save on groceries, but it offers so much more. By linking your Kroger Plus card to the app, you can get personalized coupons and track your fuel points, which can lead to savings at the pump. Plus, the program offers seasonal deals that can help you save even more on everyday essentials.
Key Benefits:
- Earn fuel points for discounts on gas.
- Access to personalized coupons and deals.
- Save on grocery purchases with special offers.
Pro Tip: Use Kroger’s app to stack digital coupons with in-store sales, maximizing your savings on weekly grocery trips.
6. Nordstrom’s The Nordy Club
Nordstrom’s loyalty program, The Nordy Club, is perfect for fashion lovers. Members earn points for every dollar spent at Nordstrom, Nordstrom Rack, and HauteLook. Points can then be redeemed for “Nordstrom Notes,” which act as cash toward future purchases. As a member, you’ll also get early access to sales, including the highly anticipated annual Nordstrom Anniversary Sale.
Key Benefits:
- Earn points with every purchase.
- Redeem points for Nordstrom Notes (store credit).
- Early access to major sales events.
Pro Tip: If you’re a serious shopper, consider getting a Nordstrom credit card for bonus points and exclusive perks like personal styling services.
7. Walgreens Balance Rewards
Walgreens Balance Rewards allows you to earn points on pharmacy, photo, and retail purchases, which can be redeemed for discounts on future purchases. You also get special pricing on health and wellness products and bonus point opportunities for achieving health goals through Walgreens’ “Steps” program.
Key Benefits:
- Earn points on pharmacy and retail purchases.
- Redeem points for future discounts.
- Special pricing and health-related rewards.
Pro Tip: Link your fitness tracker to the Walgreens app to earn points for every step you take, allowing you to save just by staying active.
8. Best Buy My Best Buy
Tech lovers can’t go wrong with My Best Buy, the retailer’s rewards program that offers exclusive deals and early access to sales. Every purchase earns you points, which can be converted into certificates for discounts on future purchases. Members also get free shipping on many items and access to member-only offers.
Key Benefits:
- Earn points toward rewards certificates.
- Early access to Black Friday and other sales.
- Free shipping on select items.
Pro Tip: Sign up for Best Buy’s Elite or Elite Plus memberships (based on annual spending) to unlock even more benefits, like extended return periods.
9. Macy’s Star Rewards
Macy’s Star Rewards lets you earn points on every purchase, which you can redeem for discounts on future purchases. The program has different tiers based on spending, with each tier offering increasing perks like free shipping, birthday surprises, and special savings days.
Key Benefits:
- Earn points on purchases.
- Redeem points for discounts.
- Access to exclusive sales and events.
Pro Tip: If you’re a big spender, aim for the higher tiers to unlock free shipping on every purchase and added savings throughout the year.
10. Rakuten (Formerly Ebates)
Rakuten isn’t a traditional store loyalty program, but it’s one of the best platforms for earning cashback on purchases across hundreds of online retailers. Simply start your shopping trip through Rakuten’s website or app, and you’ll earn a percentage back on everything you buy. Cashback is then paid out via PayPal or check.
Key Benefits:
- Earn cashback at hundreds of stores.
- Quarterly cashback payments.
- Access to exclusive deals and coupons.
Pro Tip: Install Rakuten’s browser extension to get notified of cashback opportunities whenever you shop online, ensuring you never miss out on potential savings.
Rewards programs can be a powerful way to make your frequent shopping work for you. Whether you’re earning cashback, points, or discounts, these programs provide value for shoppers willing to take a few extra steps. By choosing the right programs for your shopping habits, you can easily maximize your savings and enjoy extra perks all year long.
Remember to take advantage of multiple rewards programs simultaneously for different types of purchases. Whether you’re shopping for groceries, beauty products, tech, or clothes, the right rewards program can help you keep more money in your wallet.
