Almost everybody loves the thrill of a good shopping spree. Now, imagine if you could transform that enthusiasm into earnings!
As someone who’s always looking for ways to fill my wallet, I’ve explored countless shopping side hustles over the years.
From mystery shopping to cash-back app rewards, I’ve experienced the highs and lows of monetizing my love for shopping.
In this guide, I’ll share my favorite ways to get paid to shop, along with personal stories and useful tips.
So, grab your shopping bags and let’s get started!
1. Instacart
Have you ever found yourself zipping through grocery store aisles like a pro? If so, Instacart might be your perfect match.
As an Instacart shopper, you’ll be doing just that – shopping for groceries and delivering them to customers’ doorsteps.
Last summer, I decided to give Instacart a try and it proved to be quite an experience.
But once I got the hang of it, I was averaging about $15 to $20 per hour, which I think is enough for essentially doing my favorite pastime.
To get started with Instacart, you’ll need to be at least 18 years old and have access to a reliable vehicle.
The application process is straightforward – just head to their website, fill out some basic information, and you could be shopping for others in no time.
Pro Tip: Always check expiration dates. Trust me, nothing kills your tip faster than delivering milk that’s one day away from turning into yogurt.
2. Shipt
If Instacart isn’t your cup of tea, maybe Shipt will be more your style. Shipt is another grocery delivery service that operates in a similar fashion.
As a Shipt Shopper, you could actually save busy families from the dreaded grocery run!
Shipt claims that their shoppers can make up to $22 per hour, which is pretty decent. Plus, you get to set your own schedule, which is perfect for those of us who believe that alarm clocks are instruments of torture.
To join the Shipt team, a valid driver’s license, auto insurance, and a reliable vehicle (1997 or newer) are required.
You’ll also need to be able to lift 40 pounds – those cases of water aren’t going to deliver themselves!
One unique aspect of Shipt is their emphasis on building relationships with customers.
So if you’re a people person who doesn’t mind a bit of friendly chit-chat while you’re picking out the perfect avocado, Shipt might be right up your alley.
3. Walmart Personal Shopper
Want to combine your love for shopping with the excitement of never knowing what you might find in the clearance section? Then becoming a Walmart Personal Shopper could be the perfect role for you!
As a Walmart Personal Shopper, you’ll be part of their Grocery Pickup and Delivery services.
You’ll be tasked to navigate the vast aisles of Walmart, selecting items for customers who have placed online orders.
Walmart takes their personal shopping seriously. In fact, they put their shoppers through a three-week training program to ensure you can select the best of the best of their produce and other grocery items.
While Walmart doesn’t publicly disclose the exact pay for personal shoppers, reports suggest it’s competitive with other similar roles.
Plus, you get the added benefit of employee discounts!
If you are interested in becoming a Walmart Personal Shopper, you’ll need to check for openings at your local Walmart and apply through their careers website.
No cape required, but if you are able to pick the perfect bunch of bananas, that is definitely a plus.
4. Amazon Personal Shopper
If you’ve ever wished you could be part of Amazon’s lightning-fast delivery system, then becoming an Amazon Personal Shopper would be the perfect career for you!
As an Amazon Prime Now shopping team member, you’ll be the wizard behind the curtain, fulfilling customers’ orders in record time.
You will gather items for customers’ orders and package them up for delivery, all within a two-hour window.
Amazon offers flexible schedules, with shifts available in the mornings, evenings, and weekends. This makes it a great option for students, parents, or anyone looking for a side gig that won’t interfere with their day job.
Amazon doesn’t even require interviews or resumes for these positions. You just have to submit your application and attend a hiring event, nothing more.
According to Amazon’s job postings, personal shoppers can earn between $15 and $17.25 per hour. Fairly reasonable for essentially playing a real-life version of Supermarket Sweep!
If you want to try your luck and become an Amazon Personal Shopper, check out Amazon’s job board for Prime Now shopper positions in your area.
5. Care.com
You might be wondering why a babysitting website is included in our list. Well, yes, Care.com is a site used to find local caregivers, but it’s more than that!
Care.com is a service platform that comes with a tool for every job, including personal shopping.
You can apply as a personal shopper on Care.com and offer your services to busy professionals, elderly individuals, or anyone who needs a helping hand with their shopping.
This could involve grocery shopping, picking up dry cleaning, or even holiday gift shopping for those who break out in hives at the mere thought of entering a mall in December.
One of the great things about Care.com is that you can set your own rates and pick the clients you want to work with.
If you would like to become a Care.com Personal Shopper, you should start by creating a profile their website detailing your services and rates. Also, be sure to highlight any relevant experience to the job.
According to Care.com, personal assistants (which includes personal shoppers) earn an average of $12.36 per hour on the platform.
However, depending on your location and the specific services you offer, you could potentially earn much more.
6. TaskRabbit
Ready to take your shopping skills to the next level? TaskRabbit might be the best platform for shopping stardom.
This gig-based marketplace connects people who need help with various tasks to “Taskers” who are ready to lend a hand.
While TaskRabbit is known for handyman services, it’s also a valuable resource for shopping enthusiasts.
As a Tasker, you could find yourself on all sorts of shopping adventures. The possibilities are endless!
What’s particularly appealing about TaskRabbit is the control it gives you. You set your own rates and choose which jobs to accept.
Taskers in the U.S. earn an average of $35 per hour, a sufficient amount for doing something you probably enjoy anyway!
If you want to embark on the journey of becoming a Tasker, you must first pass a background check. Also, you should prepare a checking account and a credit card.
Once you’re set up, you can start browsing available tasks in your area.
7. Secret Shopper
If you are a savvy shopper with a talent for investigation, secret shopping is the ideal gig for you!
Secret Shopper, a company that’s been in the mystery shopping game since 1990, offers opportunities to shop and dine out while providing valuable feedback to businesses.
As a secret shopper, you’ll be going undercover to evaluate stores, restaurants, and services.
You’ll be reimbursed for any required purchases during your visit, and you’ll typically earn between $12 to $25 per hour for your investigating skills.
If becoming a secret shopper is appealing to you, you’ll need access to a computer for submitting reports and a digital camera or scanner to provide proof of your undercover missions.
Note: Legitimate mystery shopping companies won’t charge you a fee to sign up or require expensive upfront training.
8. Pinnacle
Pinnacle is another platform that can help you turn your shopping trips into hard cash.
This mystery shopping company offers a variety of assignments that could have you dining at fancy restaurants one day and test-driving cars the next.
Once you’re registered with Pinnacle, you’ll receive email notifications about jobs in your area.
The pay range is quite diverse, with assignments paying anywhere from $4 to $75 per job. The exact amount depends on the complexity of the task and the time required.
Note: Pinnacle expects quick turnaround on reports. You’ll need to submit your survey within 12 hours of completing each mystery shop assignment.
So if you’re the type who likes to procrastinate, you might want to work on that before getting into mystery shopping.
9. IntelliShop
If you’re looking to flex your shopping muscles even further, IntelliShop offers yet another avenue for mystery shopping adventures.
This company helps business owners improve their customer experience by sending secret shoppers like you to evaluate their services.
With IntelliShop, you’ll receive job assignments with specific start and due dates. It’s crucial to submit your shopping report within 12 hours of the due date.
This is the perfect shopping side gig for someone who thrives on deadlines and detailed observations.
If you want to boost your likelihood of landing top assignments, you must develop an exceptional performance history. This means avoiding cancellations and missed assignments.
Although Intellishop’s pay rates are confidential, mystery shopping can be a fun way to earn some extra cash while helping businesses improve their services.
10. DollarSprout Rewards
Now, let’s talk about a way to earn money while shopping online from the comfort of your couch.
You can install the DollarSprout Rewards extension which will serve as your shopping buddy right in your browser.
This nifty tool works with both Chrome and Safari, scouring the internet for cash-back deals at over 15,000 merchants.
But wait, there’s more!
DollarSprout Rewards also has a coupon code finder that automatically applies the best codes at checkout. Also, you don’t have to jump through hoops to get your rewards.
This platform also pays out monthly via PayPal, all in cash. All you need is a minimum balance of $5 to cash out.
If this piques your interest, simply install the extension on your preferred browser to begin your DollarSprout Rewards journey. Then, shop as you normally would.
In addition, DollarSprout Rewards will alert you when cash-back opportunities are available.
11. Capital One Shopping
If you’re looking for another powerful tool to save money while you shop, Capital One Shopping is worth checking out.
Don’t let the name fool you – you don’t need to be a Capital One customer to use this free service.
This browser extension and app is like having a team of bargain hunters working for you 24/7. It automatically applies coupon codes at checkout and compares prices across retailers.
You could earn up to 15% cash back at over 30,000 participating stores. That’s a lot of potential savings!
Also, Capital One Shopping provides price drop alerts and a universal product search feature. This means you can easily track prices on items you’re interested in and find the best deals across multiple websites.
You just need to download the browser extension or app, create an account, and you’re ready to start saving.
Fun Fact: Capital One Shopping has helped users save over $160 million in the last year alone.
12. Shopkick
Shopkick turns your shopping trips into a fun scavenger hunt where you can earn rewards just for walking into stores.
I’ve been using Shopkick for a few months now, and I’ve got to say, it’s pretty addictive.
Shopkick gives you points (called “kicks”) for various activities. You can earn kicks by simply entering certain stores, scanning barcodes of specific products, or making purchases with a linked card.
On my last shopping trip, I earned 50 kicks just for walking into Target, another 100 for scanning a few products, and 500 for my purchase.
It might not sound like much, but those kicks add up quickly. Before I knew it, I had enough for a $10 gift card to my favorite coffee shop.
Pro Tip: Check the app before you head out shopping to see which stores are offering kicks that day.
One of my favorite Shopkick hacks is to combine it with other cash-back apps. For example, I’ll use Shopkick to earn kicks, then use Ibotta to get cash back on my purchase.
13. Rakuten
Who doesn’t love a good cash-back deal? Rakuten, formerly known as Ebates, has made a name for itself in the world of online shopping rewards.
This free platform offers cash back at over 2,500 stores, making it a powerhouse in the world of shopping rewards.
Rakuten is notably simple to use.
Before you shop online, you may simply visit Rakuten’s website or use their browser extension. Click on the store you want to shop at, and you’re on your way to earning cash back.
The percentages vary, but some offers can be as high as 40% cash back, especially for travel bookings. To maximize your earnings, consider installing the Rakuten browser extension.
Unlike some platforms that offer only gift cards, Rakuten sends real cash to your PayPal account or mails you a check. They pay out quarterly, as long as you’ve earned at least $5 in cash back.
Likewise, this handy tool automatically notifies you when you’re on a website that offers cash back. Surely, you’ll never miss out on rewards!
14. Ibotta
Next up on our money-making shopping spree is Ibotta. This app has revolutionized the way people save on groceries and everyday purchases.
With Ibotta, you can earn cash back both in-store and online, making it a versatile tool for insightful shoppers.
First, check the app for offers on products you plan to buy. Next, check out stores and do some shopping. Then, simply upload a photo of your receipt. Ibotta will then credit your account with the appropriate cash back.
Ibotta’s referral program is another great feature. You can earn $5 for each friend you refer who signs up and redeems an offer.
It’s a win-win situation – you earn extra cash, and your friends start saving money too.
15. Dosh
Imagine earning cash back without having to scan receipts or remember to activate offers. That’s the advantage of using Dosh.
This app works in the background, automatically giving you cash back when you shop, dine, or book travel using a linked card.
Setting up Dosh is effortless! You must simply download the app, link your credit or debit cards, and you’re good to go.
Whenever you make a purchase at a participating merchant with your linked card, Dosh automatically adds cash back to your Dosh Wallet. No need to upload receipts or scan barcodes.
Dosh partners with thousands of merchants, including big names like Walmart, Sephora, and Dunkin’.
Cash back percentages typically range from 2% to 10%, but some offers can be even higher. Moreover, Dosh is particularly generous with hotel bookings, offering up to 40% cash back.
Once your Dosh Wallet reaches $25, you can cash out via direct deposit, PayPal, or donate to charity. It’s a passive way to earn money that can really add up over time.
16. Checkout 51
Are you in search of a straightforward way to save on groceries and everyday essentials? Checkout 51 might be just what you need.
Checkout 51 focuses primarily on grocery and household items, making it a great companion for your weekly shopping trips.
You just have to keep in mind that every Thursday, Checkout 51 updates with new offers.
Before you shop, browse through the available deals and select the ones you’re interested in.
After you’ve made your purchases, upload a photo of your receipt to the app. Once your receipt is approved, the cash back is credited to your account.
You can also use Checkout 51 at any store. As long as the product on your receipt matches the offer in the app, you’ll get your cash back.
This flexibility allows you to shop at your preferred stores while still earning rewards.
17. Drop
Drop takes a unique approach to cash back rewards. Instead of focusing on specific products, Drop lets you earn points on purchases from your favorite brands.
Drop’s process for cash back rewards is uncomplicated. You should simply download the app, link your credit and debit cards, and select your favorite brands from their list of partners.
Whenever you make a purchase from one of these brands using your linked card, you’ll automatically earn Drop points. The app works silently in the background, accumulating points as you shop.
Drop points can be redeemed for gift cards to popular retailers like Amazon, Starbucks, and Netflix.
The app also offers bonus point opportunities through games, surveys, and special offers, giving you even more ways to earn.
18. Swagbucks
Swagbucks is more than just a shopping rewards site – it’s a full-fledged online rewards program.
I’ve been using this platform for years, and it’s become my go-to for earning a little extra cash in my spare time.
Upon registration, I was impressed by Swagbucks’ extensive range of ways to earn. Its methods demonstrated a clear potential for income generation.
Yes, you can get cash back for shopping online through their portal.
But apart from that, you can also earn SB (their version of points) by watching videos, playing games, answering surveys, and even just using their search engine.
Shopping through Swagbucks has scored me some great deals. I once got 10% cash back on a large electronics purchase, which translated to a chunk of change.
Pro Tip: Look out for discounted gift card offers. Sometimes you can get a $25 gift card for only 2,200 SB instead of the usual 2,500 SB.
19. Receipt Hog
Next, let’s discuss Receipt Hog. This app takes a slightly different approach to shopping rewards by focusing entirely on receipts, regardless of what you buy or where you shop.
To use this platform, snap pictures of your receipts from any store, and earn coins. These coins can later be exchanged for PayPal cash or Amazon gift cards.
What’s great about Receipt Hog is that it doesn’t matter what you buy. Whether it’s groceries, clothes, or that impulse purchase you probably didn’t need, all receipts are welcome.
Receipt Hog also gamifies the experience by giving your account different levels.
As you submit more receipts, you level up, allowing you to earn more coins per receipt. It’s a clever way to encourage consistent use of the app.
20. Receipt Pal
Ever wished you could turn those pesky paper receipts cluttering up your wallet into cash? Well, with Receipt Pal, you can do just that!
Receipt Pal rewards you for uploading pictures of your receipts, regardless of where you shop or what you buy. The rules are basic. For every four receipts you upload, you earn 100 points.
These points can then be exchanged for a variety of rewards, including Amazon gift cards and entries into sweepstakes.
Furthermore, one of Receipt Pal’s notable standout features is its ability to automatically scan your e-receipts.
Also, by connecting your email account, you can earn an extra 300-point bonus while ensuring you never miss out on points from your online purchases.
21. FetchRewards
If you’re a grocery shopping enthusiast, FetchRewards is an app you’ll want to have in your money-making resources.
This user-friendly platform turns your everyday grocery receipts into points, which can then be redeemed for gift cards to popular retailers.
To start, simply scan your grocery receipts after shopping, and watch the points roll in.
FetchRewards remarkably gives points for specific brands and products, so be on the lookout for these special offers to boost your earnings.
You may also consider linking your email and Amazon accounts to FetchRewards so that you can maximize your earnings.
When linked, the app automatically scans your e-receipts, ensuring you always catch on points from your online purchases.
22. thredUP
With thredUP, you could turn your fashion faux pas into money. This online consignment and thrift store has revolutionized the way we sell and buy secondhand clothing.
ThredUP will basically send you a “Clean Out Kit” – a prepaid bag that you will fill with gently used clothing items you no longer want.
Then, you will send it back, and their team of fashion experts will evaluate your items, photographing and listing the ones they accept for sale.
While the process might be slower than traditional consignment shops, and the payouts may not be as high, thredUP offers unparalleled convenience.
No need to photograph, list, or ship items yourself – they handle it all!
But the benefits don’t stop there.
Once you’ve made some money selling your clothes, you can turn around and use your earnings to shop for new items on thredUP. It’s a sustainable fashion lover’s dream come true!
Pro Tip: Use a referral code when signing up to snag a $10 credit.
Then, spread the love by sharing your own referral code with friends, earning another $10 for each person who makes a purchase.
23. Uber Eats
Who says you can’t satisfy your foodie cravings and make money at the same time? Uber Eats says you can enjoy both!
This popular food delivery service offers a flexible way to earn money by delivering meals from local restaurants to hungry customers.
Whether you’re looking to make some extra cash on weekends or want to turn it into a full-time gig, the choice is yours. As an Uber Eats driver, you’ll have the freedom to set your own schedule.
Plus, you get to cruise around town, discovering new restaurants and neighborhoods along the way.
While earnings can vary depending on factors like location and time of day, many drivers report making between $8 and $12 per hour after accounting for expenses.
Plus, you get to keep 100% of your tips, which can significantly boost your earnings.
24. DoorDash
DoorDash is a food delivery giant that has taken the industry by storm, and for good reason.
If you wish to become a DoorDash driver (or “Dasher” as they call it), you’ll have the opportunity to turn your car and smartphone into a money-making machine.
DoorDash offers incredible flexibility. You can choose to dash whenever you want – whether that’s during the lunch rush, dinner time, or those late-night snack cravings.
It’s perfect for those who want to earn extra cash around their existing commitments.
The sign-up process is simple and can often be completed in just a few days.
While earnings can vary, many Dashers report making between $15-$25 per hour during peak times.
Moreover, DoorDash offers guaranteed minimum earnings in many markets, ensuring you’ll make a certain amount for your time on the road.
Note: A dasher needs to have a valid driver’s license, insurance, and a smartphone to run the DoorDash app.
25. Pogo
Pogo is an innovative app turns your everyday purchases into money without you having to lift a finger (well, except to tap “download” on your app store).
You just have to download the app from your device’s app store, create an account, and link your bank and credit cards.
Every time you make a purchase, Pogo gives you a small amount of cash back. It’s like finding spare change in your couch cushions, except it happens every time you buy something.
There’s no need to activate offers or upload receipts. Just link your accounts, shop as usual, and watch the rewards roll in. The passive nature of this app makes it a no-brainer for insightful shoppers.
Pogo even offers bonus points for answering quick in-app surveys, giving you extra opportunities to boost your earnings. You’re going to be spending money anyway, so why not earn a little back in the process?
Then sit back, relax, and let Pogo turn your purchases into profits.
26. Field Agent
If you are aiming to unleash your inner secret agent, the Field Agent might be just the mission you’re looking for!
As a Field Agent, you’ll tackle a variety of assignments including mystery shopping, where you’ll evaluate customer service and store conditions.
Or you might be asked to audit product displays, ensuring items are properly stocked and priced.
Some jobs even involve buying and trying products, then sharing your honest opinion.
Payouts are not only quick but also efficient! Once your completed job is approved, the money is deposited directly into your account. No waiting around for points to accumulate or gift cards to arrive in the mail.
Most Field Agent tasks pay between $3 to $12, depending on the complexity and time required.
Although not a large sum, note that many of these tasks can be completed in just a few minutes, often while you’re already out and about. Hence, such a range is reasonable.
To join the ranks of Field Agent, simply download the app and create an account. Search for tasks available in your area, and start your undercover shopping adventure!
27. Walmart Spark
Walmart Spark is essentially Walmart’s own delivery platform. As a driver, you pick up orders from Walmart stores and deliver them to customers.
The app is surprisingly user-friendly, guiding you through each step of the process.
One thing I really appreciate about Spark is the flexibility.
You can choose to accept or decline offers based on your schedule. This has allowed me to fit deliveries around my other commitments.
In terms of earnings, it varies depending on factors like distance, order size, and time of day.
On average, I’ve been making between $15-$20 per hour, a fairly decent amount for a side gig. Customers can also add tips, which can significantly boost your earnings.
28. Upside
High gas prices can be discouraging, that is why Upside was created to provide the boost you need!
Upside offers cash back on gas purchases, turning your necessary expenses into opportunities to save.
Before you fill up your tank, you should check first the Upside app for participating gas stations in your area. Claim an offer, fill up your tank, and then upload a picture of your receipt to the app. It’s that simple!
You could save up to 25 cents per gallon, which can really add up over time.
Upside has incredibly expanded to offer cash back on grocery and restaurant purchases as well. You could save up to 45% at participating restaurants and up to 30% on your grocery bills.
The platform also comes with a “Check In” option. If you enable location services, you can sometimes earn your cash back simply by checking in at the gas station through the app, no receipt upload required.
You can save with Upside by downloading the app, creating an account, and browsing offers in your area.
29. Amazon Shopper Panel
Ever wished you could get paid for your Amazon purchases? Well, with the Amazon Shopper Panel, that’s possible!
This invite-only program rewards you for sharing your receipts from non-Amazon purchases and completing short surveys.
Once you’re invited to join the panel, you can earn $10 a month for submitting 10 eligible receipts. These can be from grocery stores, drug stores, department stores – pretty much anywhere that isn’t Amazon.
While the Amazon Shopper Panel is currently invite-only, you can download the app and join the waitlist.
Once you’re in, start snapping photos of those receipts and watching your rewards grow!
30. P&G Good Everyday Rewards
Last but certainly not least, let’s talk about P&G Good Everyday Rewards. If you’re a fan of Procter & Gamble products, this program is a must-join!
P&G Good Everyday Rewards allows you to earn points on purchases of P&G products.
These include popular brands like Tide, Pampers, Gillette, and many more. Basically, when you stock up on your favorite household essentials, you receive a little token of appreciation from the company.
To begin earning rewards, just visit their website, create an account, and start activating offers.
Then shop for your favorite P&G products as usual, scan your receipts, and watch your rewards (and your positive impact) grow!
Pro Tip: Activate offers first before you shop. These offers can boost your point earnings on specific products.
And don’t forget to scan your receipts after each shopping trip – that’s how P&G verifies your purchases and awards your points.
Final Thoughts
As we wrap up our shopping spree through these money-making opportunities, I hope you’re feeling inspired to turn your next purchase into a profitable venture.
Consistency and smart strategy are the keys to finding the right balance between your lifestyle and shopping habits.
Personally, I’ve found that combining multiple methods – like using Ibotta for groceries while delivering for DoorDash on the weekends – can really amplify your earnings.
Don’t be afraid to experiment with different apps and platforms to see what works best for you. Keep watch for new opportunities as the world of shopping for profit is constantly evolving.
Lastly, while the potential to earn is exciting, remember to shop responsibly.
If you’ve enjoyed exploring these ways to get paid to shop, I’d love to hear your thoughts and experiences! Feel free to share your own tips or any questions you might have in the comments below.
