Buying toys for children can get expensive fast, especially with new trends constantly emerging. However, smart shopping strategies can help parents find great deals without sacrificing quality.
Knowing where to look and when to buy can help you save on everything from educational toys to the latest must-haves. So, whether you’re shopping for birthdays, holidays, or a fun surprise, these tips could help you save big online.
Compare prices across retailers
Before you click “buy now,” take a moment to compare prices from different online retailers. It’s surprising how much you can save. Marketplaces like Amazon often have special deals, seasonal discounts, and exclusive promotions. But prices can vary across different platforms, so it’s worth shopping around. To make life easier, use price comparison tools or browser extensions to help you spot the best bargains. That said, shoppers who value convenience still turn to Amazon for fast shipping, huge product selection, and trusted customer service.
Set up price alerts
Many online platforms let you set up price alerts for specific products, so you’ll get notified when the price drops. If you’re not in a hurry, tracking a toy’s price over time can help you snag the best possible deal. Websites like CamelCamelCamel show the price history for Amazon products, helping you save by predicting when discounts are most likely.
Look out for seasonal sales and promotions
Major calendar events like Black Friday, Cyber Monday, Prime Day, and Boxing Day often have big toy discounts, so are great times to buy. Planning purchases around these dates can help you save big, even on popular brands. Amazon and other retailers also frequently offer ‘Lightning Deals’ and ‘Deals of the Day,’ – limited-time discounts on trending products. Keeping an eye on these daily deals can help you bag bargains throughout the year.
Consider buying bundles
Many toy manufacturers sell bundle packs that offer better value than purchasing items individually. These bundles are especially useful for popular categories like building sets, action figures, and arts and crafts supplies. They often include a larger selection of items at a lower price, making them a budget-friendly option for parents and collectors alike. Plus, buying a bundle can save time by providing everything needed in one convenient package.
Use Amazon Subscribe & Save
If you have toys and games that need refills like arts and crafts kits, batteries, or board game expansions, Amazon’s Subscribe & Save program can help you save money on repeat purchases. It offers discounts on consumable items and delivers them at regular intervals so you never run out. It’s a convenient way to keep supplies stocked without the hassle of reordering each time. You can adjust or cancel your subscriptions at any time, making it a flexible and budget-friendly option for families.
Utilise new shopping features for exclusive deals
Innovative shopping features like voice shopping on Amazon can unlock exclusive discounts and streamline the buying process. By using Alexa-enabled devices, shoppers can access special promotions that are not always available through traditional browsing. Voice shopping allows for quick reordering of frequently purchased items, daily deal checks, and even placing hands-free orders for toys on sale. Additionally, Amazon often provides incentives, such as additional discounts or credits, for customers who make purchases using voice commands. Exploring these newer features can lead to unexpected savings and a more convenient shopping experience.
Explore second-hand and refurbished options
If you’re open to buying second-hand, platforms like Amazon Warehouse, eBay, and Facebook Marketplace offer nearly-new toys at lower prices. Many refurbished or open-box items are in excellent condition and cost significantly less than brand-new ones. You can often find high-quality toys that have been gently used or returned with minimal wear. Shopping second-hand is a great way to save money while still getting fun, functional toys.
Take advantage of Amazon Family discounts
Amazon Family, available to Prime members, provides exclusive discounts on a wide range of family-related products, including toys, nappies, and baby essentials. By signing up, members can access special deals and coupons that make everyday necessities more affordable. These perks are especially valuable when purchasing well-known brands, helping families stock up and save on trusted products, baby supplies and gifts.
Check for coupons and cashback offers
Many online stores provide digital coupons that you can easily apply at checkout to get instant discounts. In addition to these savings, cashback websites like TopCashback and Quidco let you earn rewards on your purchases, putting money back in your pocket over time. By combining digital coupons with cashback offers, you can maximise your savings and make every purchase more budget-friendly.
With a little planning, parents can save big on kids’ toys without sacrificing quality or fun. Using price-tracking tools and keeping an eye out for deals can really help to stretch budgets. While smart shopping strategies like buying during sales or considering second-hand options, make it easier to find great toys at a fraction of the cost.
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