Shopping Archives - Komando.com

Sneaky ways shopping sites get you to pay more

Kim Komando — Mon, 05 Feb 2024 14:00:00 +0000

Retailers are getting really creative in how they get us to fill our carts. When I say creative, I don’t necessarily mean in a good way.

An estimated 79% of us shop online at least once a month, and 91% make purchases from our smartphones. Yes, me too. But how many of those purchases were manipulated?

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Before you use the Flip app, know these downsides

Kim Komando — Fri, 05 Jan 2024 14:00:00 +0000

Savvy internet surfers like us ignore those obnoxious “Claim Now” pop-up ads that promise free gift cards. We’re better than that. But there’s a new shopping app that I have been getting a slew of questions about whether it’s a good way to make some extra cash. So, I decided to check it out for you.

See you on the Flip side

It’s called Flip. Make an account and you can purchase products. Once you get whatever you bought, you can earn money for making a review in a TikTok-style video. Flip pays you when people buy products based on your reviews or if you refer someone to the app. You can use the credits to buy more stuff on Flip or transfer the cash to a bank account.

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Holiday helper: How to return the stuff you don’t want

Kim Komando — Sat, 30 Dec 2023 19:00:00 +0000

Well, it looks like Aunt Sue bought you yet another ugly sweater for Christmas. Hey, it’s the thought that counts, right?

Some of us tuck unwanted things away in a closet, and some return them. If that’s you, check the fine print. Many retailers are doing away with free shipping on returns. I did some digging to help during this busy season.

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Kim’s stocking stuffer picks at every budget

Kim Komando — Sat, 16 Dec 2023 00:00:00 +0000

I know some of you are like, “Kim, knock it off with the gift picks.” Hey, I’m done with my shopping so I’m with you. But based on all the positive comments and popular demand, I put together a list of small, affordable gifts you can stick in the stockings or wrap up and put under the tree.

Without further ado.

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The clock is ticking! 50 holiday gifts for all the hard-to-please people on your list

Kim Komando — Wed, 13 Dec 2023 22:15:00 +0000

It’s crunch time. Wait much longer and you’re giving gift cards — or braving the stores. I’ve got your back with thoughtful gifts, tech and otherwise, that are sure to please.

In no particular order, here are my picks that are destined to be used time and time again. Nothing beats giving a gift that doesn’t get stashed away in a closet after a week, right?

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Attention shoppers: I’ll help you check everyone off your list

Kim Komando — Wed, 13 Dec 2023 00:00:00 +0000

Have you been putting off finishing your Christmas shopping? The time for procrastination is over. Why? Because Wednesday, Dec. 13, is the last day to order most things online and get them in time for Christmas. Well, that is unless you like paying for expensive fast shipping.

Don’t worry. I’m here to help. Here are some gift ideas perfect for everyone on your shopping list.

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Revealed: Shopping apps that collect and sell the most data

Kim Komando — Sun, 03 Dec 2023 20:00:00 +0000

Spoiler: They are all super data-hungry. New research dove deep into shopping apps that collect sensitive consumer data. It found that 75% of the apps in the study share user data with third parties. Some even share this data with outsiders without informing you. Lovely.

I’ve included the sketchiest apps here and tips to help you stay safe. Just because this research focuses on Android doesn’t mean my fellow iPhone owners are in the clear, btw. Apple does a little more to protect us from app tracking, but it still happens.

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Calling all budget shoppers! 25 options from $10 to $50

Kim Komando — Sun, 03 Dec 2023 00:00:00 +0000

“Kim, I’d love to buy him an iPad, but money is tight.” I’ve got your back. You don’t need to spend a ton to get your loved ones something nice. I gathered up sweet options that won’t break the bank.

Under $10

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You or a loved one switched to an iPhone 15? The right and wrong chargers

Kim Komando — Sat, 18 Nov 2023 20:00:00 +0000

OK, honesty time: I bought the new iPhone 15 Pro Max. I opened up my fancy $1,600 smartphone to realize … it was the same as the iPhone 14 Pro Max I was already using.

The big (only?) change I can spot is the charging port on the bottom. After all these years, Apple is ditching its Lightning cable for the one every other tech company uses for charging and data transfer: USB-C. Some new AirPod models are getting the same treatment.

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Best early Black Friday deals live now on Amazon

Kim Komando — Sat, 18 Nov 2023 03:00:00 +0000

You no longer have to wait for Black Friday or Cyber Monday to save. Yep, Amazon’s holiday deals are here now.

Plus, you don’t have to change out of your jammies.

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Ask a tech expert: Can you help me choose an Echo device?

Kim Komando — Sat, 28 Oct 2023 19:00:00 +0000

I want to get an Amazon Echo Show, but can’t decide between the 8 or 10 or which version. Can you provide your recommendation?

— Rodney in Nevada
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Grocery bill too high? Smart ways to save every time

Kim Komando — Thu, 31 Aug 2023 08:00:00 +0000

Rule of thumb: Don’t Google “coupons.” You’ll most likely end up on junk sites trying to get you to click an ad.

That said, CouponFollow found typical households could save over $300 on things they were already buying at the grocery store using coupons. So, how do you find legit deals?

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Don’t make these 5 big mistakes when buying electronics on Amazon

Kim Komando — Sat, 05 Aug 2023 10:30:00 +0000

Shopping on Amazon can be a great way to save money on otherwise expensive tech. Tap or click here for quick and easy ways to save money when filling your cart. Just avoid the most common mistakes people make when buying electronics on Amazon.

For example, you might be so wowed by a great deal that you snap it up before it sells out. Hasty buying habits can be incredibly costly in the long run, so rein in your impulses. When you’re about to buy from Amazon, read product reviews from a trusted source like Consumer Reports.

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Quick and easy ways to save money shopping on Amazon

Kim Komando — Wed, 19 Jul 2023 10:30:00 +0000

Even if you’re not an Amazon fan, you can’t deny how easy it is to find just about anything you want. That includes, of course, gifts.

There’s also account security to consider. You should remove your Amazon public profile, for one. Tap or click for five security steps every Amazon shopper should take.

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Porch pirates are worst in these states

Kim Komando — Fri, 14 Jul 2023 08:00:00 +0000

What is the average value of a stolen package? About $50. Who are the ones doing that stealing? Data shows that 94% of porch pirates are 45 and younger, and 67% are middle class. That’s a little surprising, wouldn’t you say?

Keep reading to learn more about these common thieves and ways to outsmart them.

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Secrets to finding good stuff on OfferUp and Facebook Marketplace

Kim Komando — Thu, 06 Jul 2023 21:00:00 +0000

There are a lot of risks and rewards with online marketplaces. Although you can find great deals, you’ll also find con artists looking to trick you with lousy goods. In this tip, we’ll help you avoid scams when buying online.

You must be especially careful if you’re trying to score a great deal on Facebook Marketplace. As the world’s second-largest marketplace, it attracts many scammers. Tap or click here to avoid five trending scams on Facebook Marketplace.

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Shopping for a new computer? 3 specs that really matter

Kim Komando — Mon, 03 Jul 2023 10:00:00 +0000

We’re all suckers for a good deal. When buying a computer, jumping on a shiny new laptop is tempting if it’s at a great price. While cost is a definite factor, it’s not the only thing you must consider. Need help to find the perfect laptop for you? Tap or click here to take our quiz and find the right one.

Did you buy an iPhone just for its camera? (If you did, we aren’t judging!) Probably not, though. You evaluated all of its features before making a final decision. With computers, you need to do the same.

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The best eBay treasures to sell

Kim Komando — Thu, 29 Jun 2023 08:00:00 +0000

A recent analysis of over 17 million sales on eBay uncovered the best-selling items to make extra cash. I bet you have a few of these products stashed in closets — or maybe your parents do.

If you want to make a few bucks, check out the list below and start scavaging.

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5 sites offering unclaimed packages for anyone to buy

Albert Khoury — Thu, 29 Jun 2023 00:00:00 +0000

When a relative passes, you’re entitled to their old bank accounts, safe deposit box contents, uncashed checks, insurance policies, trust funds and other accounts. One of Kim’s listeners found nearly $25,000 in a bank account he didn’t know existed. Here’s how to check if you have unclaimed money lying around somewhere.

While unclaimed money usually legally belongs to someone, it’s not the same with packages. Anyone can buy them! Here’s how to get in on the action.

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5 ways to get the most out of a Costco or Sam’s Club membership

Kim Komando — Mon, 26 Jun 2023 21:00:00 +0000

Retailers like Costco and Sam’s Club may be able to save you up to 30% on your annual grocery bill. However, just because you shop big doesn’t mean you’ll always come out on top.

Convenience, accessibility and, of course, price all vary by purchase. Luckily, we’ve got five tips to help you make the right choice every time.

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