Online shopping in India has become a preferred way to buy everything from electronics to groceries, thanks to the convenience and variety it offers. However, finding the best discounts can be challenging amidst the myriad of options. Whether you’re preparing for a festive season or just everyday shopping, knowing where and how to find the best deals can save you a lot of money.
In this extensive guide, we’ll walk you through various strategies, tips, and tricks to help you find the best discounts on Indian shopping sites. Whether you’re shopping for Diwali, New Year, or just a regular day, these tips will ensure you get the most value for your money.
Understanding the Indian Online Shopping Landscape
The Indian e-commerce market is booming, with millions of consumers turning to online platforms for their shopping needs. The convenience, variety, and competitive pricing offered by online retailers have made it a preferred choice for many. However, with so many options available, it can be overwhelming to find the best deals.
The key to successful online shopping lies in understanding the landscape and being aware of the various strategies these platforms use to attract customers. From exclusive deals to time-sensitive offers, Indian shopping sites employ a myriad of tactics to ensure you shop more and save more.
Popular Indian Shopping Sites and Their Discount Strategies
Let’s take a closer look at some of the most popular Indian shopping sites and how they offer discounts.
Amazon India
Amazon India is one of the largest online marketplaces in the country, offering everything from electronics to groceries. The platform frequently runs various sales events, such as the Great Indian Festival, where customers can enjoy significant discounts across categories.
- Amazon Prime Membership: Offers exclusive deals, early access to sales, and free shipping.
- Lightning Deals: Limited-time offers on select products.
- Subscribe and Save: Discounts on regular purchases when you subscribe to certain products.
Flipkart
Flipkart is another major player in the Indian e-commerce market. Known for its Big Billion Days sale, Flipkart offers massive discounts during festival seasons.
- Flipkart Plus Membership: Earn SuperCoins and get early access to sales.
- Exchange Offers: Trade in your old products for discounts on new purchases.
- Cardless Credit: Buy now, pay later with easy EMI options.
Myntra
Myntra specializes in fashion and lifestyle products. The platform offers discounts through various sales events like the End of Reason Sale.
- Insider Program: Earn points for every purchase and redeem them for discounts.
- Myntra Credit: Cashback on returns, which can be used for future purchases.
- Flash Sales: Limited-time discounts on specific brands and products.
Ajio
Ajio, owned by Reliance, is known for its trendy fashion collections. The platform frequently runs sales and offers up to 70% off on various brands.
- Ajio Wallet: Cashback offers credited to your Ajio wallet.
- Coupon Codes: Exclusive discounts using coupon codes during checkout.
- Ajio Gold: Membership program offering additional discounts and benefits.
BigBasket
BigBasket is a popular online grocery shopping site in India. The platform offers discounts on groceries, fresh produce, and household items.
- Combo Offers: Discounts when purchasing multiple items together.
- BB Star Membership: Free delivery and exclusive discounts.
- Weekend Sales: Special discounts on weekends on select products.
Best Times to Shop Online in India for Maximum Discounts
Timing is everything when it comes to online shopping. Indian shopping sites have specific periods when they offer maximum discounts. Knowing when to shop can help you save significantly.
Festival Sales
Indian festivals like Diwali, Dussehra, and Holi are synonymous with grand sales. E-commerce giants like Amazon, Flipkart, and Myntra offer massive discounts during these periods.
- Diwali Sales: Expect up to 80% off on electronics, fashion, and home decor.
- Dussehra Sales: Attractive deals on gadgets and appliances.
- Holi Sales: Discounts on clothing, colors, and festive essentials.
End of Season Sales
Most fashion and lifestyle sites like Myntra, Ajio, and Jabong offer End of Season Sales (EOSS) with up to 70% off on clothing, footwear, and accessories. These sales typically occur twice a year, at the end of summer and winter.
Flash Sales
Flash sales are limited-time offers where products are sold at heavily discounted prices. These sales usually last for a few hours and are announced in advance.
- Amazon Lightning Deals: Limited-time offers with huge discounts.
- Flipkart Flash Sales: Special discounts on electronics and fashion.
Special Day Sales
Days like Independence Day, Republic Day, and New Year bring special discounts across various shopping sites. These sales are often accompanied by additional bank offers, making them the perfect time to shop.
Using Coupon Codes and Cashback Offers
Coupon codes and cashback offers are among the most effective ways to save money while shopping online. Let’s explore how you can maximize these offers.
Where to Find Coupon Codes
Coupon codes can be found on various websites and apps dedicated to listing the latest deals. Some popular platforms include:
- CouponDunia: Offers a wide range of coupon codes for different categories.
- CashKaro: Get cashback and coupon codes for various Indian shopping sites.
- GrabOn: Provides exclusive coupon codes for fashion, electronics, and more.
Best Cashback Websites and Apps
Cashback websites and apps allow you to earn money back on your purchases. Here are some of the best options:
- CashKaro: Earn cashback on purchases from various online retailers.
- Paytm: Offers cashback on transactions made through the Paytm wallet.
- Citrus Wallet: Get cashback on payments made using the Citrus wallet.
Price Comparison Tools and Apps
Before making a purchase, it’s essential to compare prices across different platforms. Price comparison tools and apps can help you find the best deals.
Top Price Comparison Websites
- PriceDekho: Compare prices across various categories like electronics, fashion, and more.
- MySmartPrice: Offers price comparisons for gadgets, home appliances, and more.
- Junglee: A part of Amazon India, Junglee allows you to compare prices across multiple sellers.
Apps to Track Price Drops
- BuyHatke: An app that tracks price drops and notifies you when the price of a product decreases.
- PriceBaba: Provides price tracking and comparisons for smartphones and gadgets.
- Smartprix: Compare prices and track price drops across multiple e-commerce platforms.
Bank and Wallet Offers
Bank and wallet offers are another excellent way to save money while shopping online. Many Indian shopping sites collaborate with banks and digital wallets to provide exclusive discounts.
Credit/Debit Card Offers
- HDFC Bank: Often partners with e-commerce sites to offer instant discounts on credit/debit card transactions.
- ICICI Bank: Provides cashback offers on select categories during sales events.
- SBI Card: Offers additional discounts during major sales like Amazon’s Great Indian Festival.
Digital Wallet Discounts
- Paytm: Offers cashback and discounts on transactions made through the Paytm wallet.
- PhonePe: Get discounts on transactions made through PhonePe, especially on Flipkart.
- Amazon Pay: Offers exclusive discounts on Amazon purchases when using Amazon Pay.
Sign-Up Bonuses and First-Time Shopper Discounts
Many Indian shopping sites offer sign-up bonuses or first-time shopper discounts. These can be in the form of coupon codes, cashback, or instant discounts.
- Amazon: New users can get a discount on their first purchase using a specific coupon code.
- Flipkart: Offers discounts on the first order after signing up.
- Myntra: Provides a coupon code for first-time shoppers with a discount on their initial purchase.
Loyalty Programs and Rewards
Loyalty programs and rewards are designed to retain customers by offering them additional benefits for repeated purchases. Here’s how you can maximize these programs.
How to Maximize Loyalty Points
- Flipkart Plus: Earn SuperCoins for every purchase, which can be redeemed for discounts.
- Amazon Prime: Enjoy free shipping, early access to sales, and exclusive discounts.
- Myntra Insider: Accumulate points for every purchase and unlock rewards like discounts and free shipping.
Social Media and Email Subscriptions for Exclusive Deals
Following your favorite shopping sites on social media or subscribing to their email newsletters can give you access to exclusive deals and discounts.
- Facebook/Instagram: Many brands announce flash sales and exclusive discounts on their social media pages.
- Email Newsletters: Subscribe to newsletters from Amazon, Flipkart, Myntra, and others to receive special offers directly in your inbox.
Tips for Smart Online Shopping in India
While discounts and offers are great, it’s essential to be a smart shopper to ensure you’re getting genuine deals. Here are some tips to help you shop smartly.
Avoiding Fake Discounts
Some sites may inflate the original price to make the discount seem more significant. Always compare prices on different platforms to ensure you’re getting a real deal.
Reading Reviews and Ratings
Before making a purchase, read customer reviews and check ratings. This will give you a better idea of the product’s quality and whether it’s worth the price.
Understanding Return and Refund Policies
Ensure you’re familiar with the return and refund policies of the shopping site. This will save you from potential hassles if the product doesn’t meet your expectations.
How to Find Discounts on Indian Shopping Sites? Step-by-Step
Finding discounts on Indian shopping sites can save you a significant amount of money. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you maximize your savings while shopping online in India.
Step 1: Identify Trusted Shopping Sites
Start by making a list of reliable Indian shopping websites like Amazon India, Flipkart, Myntra, Snapdeal, and others that you prefer. These sites frequently offer discounts, especially during sales events.
Step 2: Sign Up for Newsletters
Many e-commerce sites offer exclusive discounts and coupons to their newsletter subscribers. Sign up for newsletters on your favorite shopping sites to receive these deals directly in your inbox.
Step 3: Download Mobile Apps
Install the mobile apps of your preferred shopping sites. Often, app users get access to app-exclusive discounts, flash sales, and notifications about upcoming deals.
Step 4: Use Price Comparison Tools
Use price comparison websites and tools like PriceDekho, MySmartPrice, or Buyhatke to compare prices across different shopping sites. These platforms often highlight ongoing discounts and suggest the best deal available.
Step 5: Explore Coupon Websites
Check out coupon and deal aggregator websites like CouponDunia, GrabOn, or CashKaro. These platforms collect and display active discount codes, deals, and cashback offers across various Indian shopping sites.
Step 6: Check for Bank Offers
Look for discounts provided by specific banks. Many shopping sites offer discounts or cashback when you pay with certain credit or debit cards. Always check the payment options during checkout for additional savings.
Step 7: Utilize Cashback Websites
Join cashback websites like CashKaro, PaisaWapas, or GoPaisa. These sites offer cashback on purchases made through their links, adding an extra layer of savings on top of the discounts.
Step 8: Leverage Sale Events
Indian shopping sites host major sale events like Amazon’s Great Indian Festival, Flipkart’s Big Billion Days, and Myntra’s End of Reason Sale. Keep an eye out for these sales, as they offer massive discounts on a wide range of products.
Step 9: Add to Wishlist and Wait for Price Drops
Add items you want to your wishlist on various shopping sites. Many platforms notify you when the price drops, helping you purchase at the best possible price.
Step 10: Use Credit Card Points or Wallet Credits
If you have accumulated reward points on your credit card or wallet credits (like Paytm or PhonePe), use them to get additional discounts on your purchases.
Step 11: Follow Social Media and Influencers
Follow shopping sites on social media platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter. Many brands and influencers share exclusive discount codes and flash sale announcements on their pages.
Step 12: Join Loyalty Programs
Enroll in loyalty programs offered by sites like Amazon Prime, Flipkart Plus, or Myntra Insider. These programs often provide early access to sales, free shipping, and extra discounts for members.
Step 13: Apply Discount Filters
While browsing, use the discount filter available on most shopping sites to sort products by discount percentage, showing you the best deals first.
Step 14: Read Reviews and Compare
Before purchasing, read product reviews and compare features to ensure that you’re getting the best value for your money, even with the discount.
Step 15: Check Return and Exchange Policies
Always review the return and exchange policies before making a purchase. Some discounts might be on non-refundable or non-exchangeable items, so it’s important to be aware of the terms.
Step 16: Use Affiliate Marketing Tricks
Sometimes, affiliates offer special links that provide additional discounts. If you know a trusted affiliate or website, use their links to get extra benefits.
Step 17: Monitor Expiry Dates of Coupons
Keep track of the expiry dates of your discount coupons. Use them before they expire to avoid missing out on savings.
By following these steps, tips and strategies, you’ll be well on your way to becoming a savvy online shopper in India. Whether you’re shopping for festive gifts or everyday essentials, knowing how to find discounts on Indian shopping sites will help you save money and enjoy a more rewarding shopping experience.
