Want to save money on food?

Free DoorDash gift cards can help you save money on food delivery. They let you order tasty meals without spending your own cash, and getting these free gift cards doesn’t have to cost you anything either.

I’ve personally earned over $1,000 in free gift cards using sites like the ones listed below, and you can too. These platforms make it easy to earn free DoorDash gift cards by completing tasks like taking surveys or scanning receipts. With just a bit of effort, you can enjoy your favorite meals delivered right to your door without spending a dime.

Quick note: If you’re a new user, you can sign up for DoorDash here and get $10 off each of your first 3 DoorDash orders over $15.

Best Ways To Get Free DoorDash Gift Cards

Here’s a quick list before we begin:

Below are the best ways to get a free DoorDash gift card.

1. Freecash

Freecash is a website where you can make extra money in your spare time. You can earn by doing things like playing games, trying new apps, and taking surveys.

When you join Freecash, you’ll see lots of offers to choose from. Each task you finish gives you coins, which can be turned into real money or gift cards. Freecash has free DoorDash gift cards in amounts ranging from $15 to $100, and there is no fee to withdraw your points.

Many people use Freecash every day to make some extra cash. You might earn $1 for a quick survey or up to $650 for trying out a new game. The amount you can make depends on the task.

I have personally made $302 just by playing a game on Freecash on my phone, and it only took one week. I turned it into free gift cards and I got the gift card redemption codes instantly.

Click here to sign up for Freecash.

Recommended reading: Freecash Review – Is Freecash Legit?

2. Fetch Rewards

Fetch Rewards is a free app that gives you gift cards for scanning your grocery receipts from any grocery store. I use this app on all of my grocery receipts (even today!), and I like how easy it is to use.

You can get points from any receipt. This includes grocery stores, gas stations, restaurants, and more. Just take a picture of your receipt with your phone.

The app gives you at least 25 points for each receipt you scan. You can earn more points by buying specific items shown in the app (like a loaf of bread, shampoo, or fruit).

You can turn your points into gift cards for places like DoorDash, Amazon, Target, and Starbucks. There are over 200 gift card options to choose from.

Fetch Rewards is safe and doesn’t cost anything to use. Millions of people use it every month to save money on things they already buy.

While you won’t get rich using Fetch Rewards, it’s a simple way to earn some extra gift cards. Just shop like you normally do and take a picture of your receipt when you’re done.

You can sign up for Fetch Rewards by clicking here.

Recommended reading: Fetch Rewards Review

3. PayPal Honey

PayPal Honey is a free tool that can help you save money when you shop online. It’s a browser extension you can add to your computer in just a few clicks. Once it’s set up, it works by itself to find discount codes for you.

When you’re ready to buy something, PayPal Honey searches for coupon codes. If it finds any coupons that work, it applies them to your cart. You don’t have to do anything extra – it’s all automatic!

PayPal Honey works with lots of online stores. You can use it when you’re buying clothes, ordering food, or even booking a trip.

You can also earn points when you shop with PayPal Honey. These points add up, and you can trade them for free DoorDash gift cards.

You can learn more about Honey by clicking here.

4. Swagbucks

Swagbucks is a fun way to earn free DoorDash gift cards. You can join for free and start earning points right away (these points are called SB).

There are many ways to get SB. You can take surveys, watch videos, or play games. You can also shop online and earn cash back. Even searching the web can earn you points!

I have personally earned over 110 free gift cards on Swagbucks over the years, so I know this is real!

Once you have enough points, you can trade them for a gift card. DoorDash is one of the many gift card options. You can also get PayPal cash if you prefer.

Sign up for Swagbucks here (and earn $5 in free bonus points).

Recommended reading: Swagbucks Review – How Much Can You Earn On Swagbucks?

5. Branded Surveys

Branded Surveys is a fun way to earn some extra cash. You can sign up for free and start taking surveys right away. It’s open to people in the United States, Canada, and the United Kingdom who are at least 16 years old.

Each survey can pay between 50 cents and $5, depending on how long it takes. Most surveys take about 5-20 minutes to finish.

You can earn points in other ways too. Answer the daily poll for 5 points, or invite friends to join. There’s even a contest where top survey takers can win bonus points.

Once you have 500 points, you can cash out (that’s equal to $5). You can redeem your points for DoorDash gift cards varying from $5 to $200.

Sign up for Branded Surveys here and receive a free 100-point sign-up bonus.

Recommended reading: Branded Surveys Review: How Much You Can Earn

6. DoorDash referrals

DoorDash has a referral program where you can get DoorDash credits to put toward your DoorDash order. When you share your referral link with friends, you both win.

Right now, you can give $30 to a friend and get $20 back (you’ll want to check your account to see what the current referral promotions are, as this can change).

Here’s how it works: Your friend signs up using your referral link. They place their first order of $15 or more. You get $20 in DoorDash credits, and they get some credit as well.

Here are the official terms: “Get $20 in credits when someone signs up using your referral link and places their first order over $15. Your friend also gets $30 off ($10 off each of their first 3 orders).”

You can find your referral code/link in the DoorDash app or on their website after you log in.

Here’s my referral link so that you can sign up and see (and you can also get free DoorDash credit!).

7. Ibotta

Ibotta is an app that can help you get free DoorDash gift cards. It’s easy to use and gives you cash back on grocery purchases.

It’s a lot like Fetch Rewards, and I personally like to use both of these grocery receipt scanning apps on the same receipts (it gives you more chances to earn points!).

Here’s how Ibotta works: Before you shop, check the Ibotta app for offers (it will tell you the number of points you will get for a specific item, like a loaf of bread or a container of yogurt). Add the ones you want to your list in the app and then go shopping like normal.

After you’re done, take a picture of your receipt with the app. Ibotta will match your purchases to the offers you picked and you’ll get cash back for the items that match.

You can then turn the points you’ve earned into free DoorDash gift cards.

You can sign up for Ibotta by clicking here.

8. MyPoints

MyPoints is a rewards site that lets you earn points for different online activities.

You can get these points by taking surveys, watching videos, playing games (such as Angry Birds, Wheel of Fortune, Bejeweled, and Scrabble), and shopping online.

You can even earn points for trying out new products or for signing up for trial offers to companies such as Hulu, Disney+, ESPN, AT&T, HelloFresh, and more.

The points you collect can be traded for gift cards, including ones for DoorDash. This means you can get free food delivered to your door.

MyPoints is available to people located in the United States.

You can sign up for MyPoints by clicking here.

9. InboxDollars

InboxDollars is a good way to earn free DoorDash gift cards, as you can make money by doing easy tasks online.

These tasks include taking surveys, watching videos, reading emails, and playing games (games include Monopoly where you can earn up to $446.25, for example). You can also earn cash by shopping online and printing coupons.

As you complete tasks, you earn real money and you can choose to get paid via PayPal or gift cards.

Sign up for InboxDollars here and get a free $5 bonus.

10. PrizeRebel

PrizeRebel is a fun way to get free DoorDash gift cards. It’s a website where you can do easy tasks to earn points, such as taking surveys, watching videos, and trying new apps.

You can sign up for PrizeRebel for free. Once you’re a member, you’ll see a list of activities you can do to earn points and you can just pick the ones that look most interesting to you.

When you have enough points, you can trade them for a DoorDash gift card. You can choose between $15 DoorDash gift cards or even getting an annual DashPass gift card. PrizeRebel has different gift card values, so you can choose how much you want.

PrizeRebel is easy to use on your computer or phone. You can earn points whenever you have a few spare minutes. It’s an easy way to get free food delivery without spending your own money.

Sign up for PrizeRebel by clicking here.

Frequently Asked Questions

Below are answers to common questions about how to get a free DoorDash gift card.

Is there a way to get free food on DoorDash?

Yes, there are ways to get free food on DoorDash. The top ways I recommend are to invite friends and family to DoorDash and to earn free DoorDash gift cards by using apps where you can earn points by playing games or answering surveys.

Can I really get DoorDash gift card codes without spending money?

Yes, you can earn DoorDash gift card codes without spending money, such as by signing up for apps and earning points. You can earn points by shopping online, scanning your grocery receipts, playing games on your phone, and more. There are scams out there, so I always recommend that you do your research to make sure it’s not a scam you are responding to.

How do you get a free DoorDash gift card?

You can earn free DoorDash gift cards in a few ways:

1. Use reward apps like Fetch Rewards or Swagbucks
2. Take surveys on sites like Branded Surveys
3. Sign up for cash back services like PayPal Honey
4. Refer friends to DoorDash

These methods let you earn points or cash that you can trade for gift cards. Most of these ways give you online gift cards with codes to redeem, but sometimes you may be able to get a physical gift card.

Do DoorDash gift card generators work for free gift cards?

No, there isn’t something that generates free DoorDash gift card codes. Anything claiming to be a DoorDash gift card generator is likely a scam from untrusted sources that are trying to get your personal information (like your social security number) or credit card numbers. They typically just list a bunch of invalid codes that are a waste of your time. If you want a DoorDash promo code, I recommend trying an app like Freecash or Swagbucks and earning points that can be turned into a real free DoorDash gift card.

How To Get a Free DoorDash Gift Card – Summary

I hope you enjoyed my article on how to get a free DoorDash gift card.

If you’re looking to save money on food delivery services, free DoorDash gift cards can be a great way to cut costs. I love using the DoorDash platform, but I know how quickly the food costs can add up. Finding DoorDash savings can help you to save money in your budget!

There are several simple ways to earn these gift cards without spending your own money. You can take online surveys, play games, or use cash back apps like Freecash, Swagbucks, and Fetch Rewards. These platforms reward you for completing tasks like shopping or scanning receipts, making it easy to rack up points that you can trade for DoorDash gift cards.

Earning free DoorDash gift cards is not only possible, but it’s something I’ve done myself. By using rewards sites like Swagbucks and Fetch Rewards, I’ve collected over $1,000 in free gift cards. If you want to save money on food delivery, these simple methods can help you get free DoorDash gift cards quickly and easily!

What is your favorite way to get free DoorDash gift cards?

Recommended reading:

Do you want to pay off your student loans faster?

Paying off student loans can feel like a big challenge. But there’s a way to speed up the process if you’re up for it – and it’s what I did so that I could pay off my $40,000 in student loans in just 7 months.

And, that is starting a side hustle! Starting a side job can give you extra money to put toward your loans.

You can use your free time to make more money and pay off your student debt faster. With some hard work, you can say goodbye to your student debt more quickly than you thought possible.

How I paid off my student loans in 7 months with side hustles

The reason I’m writing this article is because I personally paid off my student loans very quickly, mainly due to side hustles. And thanks to that, I saw a ton of benefits, like financial freedom and no longer having a big monthly debt hanging over my head.

Paying off $40,000 in student loans in just 7 months might sound impossible, but it’s not! Here’s how I did it:

First, I made a clear plan. I wrote down my total debt and broke it into smaller goals. This helped me stay focused.

Next, I cut my expenses. I got roommates, cooked at home, and avoided unnecessary shopping (I didn’t really have any time to spend money anyways, because I was using pretty much every spare minute on side jobs). Every dollar saved went to my loans.

The real game-changer was side hustles. I tried everything (you can see a full list at I’ve Done Over 20 Side Hustles in My Life: Here’s What I Think of Each):

• Starting a blog
• Reselling items on eBay and Craigslist
• Mystery shopping
• Taking online surveys
• Focus groups
• Writing for other websites
• Taking on roommates
• Virtual assisting
• Freelance social media management

And more.

I put all my extra earnings directly toward my student loan debt. Right as the income came in, I would immediately apply it toward my debt. This way, I wasn’t tempted to spend the money on other things.

I also looked for ways to lower my interest rates. By setting up automatic payments, I got a small rate reduction. It wasn’t much, but every bit helped!

The key was staying motivated. I reminded myself of the freedom I’d have once the loans were gone. It wasn’t easy, but the feeling of making that final payment was amazing!

Remember, you can do this too. Start small, be creative with making extra money, and stay committed to your goal. Before you know it, you’ll be celebrating your own debt-free day!

Why you should start a side hustle if you have student loans

If you’re serious about paying off your student loans faster, starting a side hustle can be a game-changer.

It’s a flexible way to earn extra income, reduce your debt, and even save on interest payments. Plus, the skills you gain can open up new opportunities for your career or personal growth.

Extra income to pay off loans

A side hustle gives you more money to put toward your student loans. This extra cash can make a big difference in paying down your debt.

Here are some popular side hustle ideas:

• Freelance writing
• Dog walking
• Online tutoring
• Selling items on eBay
• Virtual assistant work

Even a few hours a week can add up. Put all your side hustle earnings toward your loans to see faster progress.

Less interest

Paying off your loans faster means you’ll pay less interest over time. This can save you hundreds or even thousands of dollars. Let’s look at an example:

Say you have a $30,000 loan with 6% interest over 10 years. Your monthly payment would be about $333. If you added an extra $100 per month from a side hustle, you’d pay off the loan 3 years earlier and save over $3,000 in interest!

More financial freedom

A side hustle can give you more control over your money. You won’t feel as stressed about your monthly loan payments. You might even have some cash left over for savings or fun activities.

Having extra income can also help you:

• Build an emergency fund
• Start investing for the future
• Travel or pursue hobbies

This added freedom can make it easier to stick to your loan repayment plan. You’ll feel more motivated when you see the progress you’re making.

Building skills

Side hustles aren’t just about money. They’re also a chance to learn new skills. These skills can help you in your main job or future career moves. You might realize that you have a passion that turns into a full-time business.

For example, if you start a blog to make extra cash, you’ll learn about:

• Writing
• Web design
• Social media marketing
• Search engine optimization (SEO)

These skills are valuable in many jobs. They can make you stand out to employers or help you start your own business later on.

For me, I started my blog to talk about my personal finance situation and my student loans. I never thought that it would become my full-time career, and it now is! I have learned so much over the years and my life has changed so much ever since I paid off my student loans.

Choosing the Right Side Hustle

Picking a side job that fits you is key to making extra money for student loans. A good side hustle matches what you like and your free time.

1. Match your interests

Look at what you enjoy doing. Are you good with computers? Try an online freelance gig like graphic design, virtual assisting, or freelance writing. Do you love pets? Dog walking could be fun and make money.

Think about your skills too. Can you write well? Blogging might work for you. Are you creative? Selling crafts could be a great option.

When you pick something you like, you’re more likely to stick with it. This means more money to pay off those loans faster.

2. Think about the time commitment

Figure out how much time you can give to a side job. If you’re busy with school, look for quick tasks.

For more free time, you may want to try bigger projects. Starting a blog takes work but could pay off later. Tutoring or freelance work might need set hours each week.

Managing Time Effectively

Juggling a side hustle with your regular job takes skill. You’ll need to plan carefully and set clear goals to make the most of your time.

For me, when I decided to pay off my student loans as quickly as possible, I was working a full-time job as an analyst and I started side hustling anywhere from 20-30+ hours a week on top of that. I was BUSY!

Balancing work and hustle

Start by looking at your weekly schedule. Find pockets of free time you can use for your side gig. Maybe you can wake up an hour earlier or work on weekends. Use a planner or app to keep track of your tasks and deadlines.

Try batching similar tasks together. This can help you stay focused and get more done. For example, set aside one evening to answer emails and make phone calls.

Take breaks to avoid burnout. Even short 5-minute breaks can help you recharge. Remember to eat well and get enough sleep too.

Setting goals

When I first started my journey to pay off my student loans, setting clear goals was one of the most important steps I took.

I didn’t just hope to pay off my loans – I set concrete, specific goals that gave me something to work toward every single day. I broke my total loan amount into smaller, more manageable chunks, and then I made weekly and monthly goals to keep myself on track.

For example, I knew I wanted to pay off $40,000 in less than one year, so I calculated how much extra I needed to earn and save each month to hit that target. Seeing my progress on paper kept me motivated, and each time I hit a smaller goal, it gave me the energy to keep going. I also adjusted my goals along the way – if I had a slower month, I didn’t give up, I just reassessed and kept pushing forward. This made the huge task of paying off my loans feel possible.

Here are my tips:

• Write down what you want to achieve with your side hustle and be specific about how much money you want to make and by when. Break big goals into smaller, weekly targets.
• Use the SMART method: Make your goals Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound. This helps you stay on track and see your progress.
• Keep your goals visible. Put them on your desk or phone wallpaper and review them often to stay motivated. Celebrate small wins along the way – they add up!
• Adjust your goals as needed. If you’re falling behind, don’t give up. Figure out why and make changes to your plan.

Side Hustle Ideas You Can Start

Looking to make extra cash? Here are 30 side hustle ideas you can start today:

1. Start a blog
2. Take online surveys
3. Become a proofreader
4. Sell items on eBay or Amazon
5. Provide pet sitting services
6. Tutor students online
7. Do freelance writing
8. Become a social media manager
9. Design and sell T-shirts online
10. Teach English online
11. Drive for Uber or Lyft
12. Rent out a room on Airbnb
13. Do yard work for neighbors
14. Provide handyman services
15. Become a virtual assistant
16. Become a personal shopper
17. Start a podcast
18. Sell handmade crafts on Etsy
19. Do data entry work
20. Become a mystery shopper
21. Dog treat bakery business
22. Flip furniture
23. Start a YouTube channel
24. Deliver food with DoorDash
25. Become a freelance photographer
26. Sell house cleaning services
27. Do transcription work
28. Become a virtual bookkeeper
29. Sell graphic design services
30. Become a fitness instructor

Pick one that fits your skills and schedule. You can even start small and see how it goes. You might be surprised at how much extra money you can make!

Frequently Asked Questions

Paying off student loans faster with a side hustle can be a great way to get out of debt. Here are some common questions about how to pay off student loans faster with side hustles.

What are some creative side hustles I can start to pay off my student loans quicker?

Some ideas for creative side hustles that you can start to pay off your student loans quicker include freelance writing or editing, tutoring students online, selling handmade items on Etsy, walking dogs or pet sitting, and selling dog treats. Pick something you enjoy that fits your schedule. Even a few hours a week can add up to extra loan payments.

Is it possible to get rid of my student loans fast even if I don’t make a lot of money?

Yes, you can pay off loans faster even with a lower income. Here are some tips to make it happen:

• Cut your expenses and put the savings toward loans
• Look for income-based repayment plans
• See if you qualify for loan forgiveness programs
• Make extra payments when you can, even small ones
• Find ways to make extra income

The key is to be consistent and put any extra money toward your loans.

Can picking certain jobs help me wipe out my student loans faster?

Some jobs offer student loan repayment help as a benefit. These may include:

• Government jobs
• Nonprofit work
• Teaching in high-need areas
• Healthcare jobs in underserved communities

These roles may give loan forgiveness after a set time. You’ll want to check the terms carefully before choosing a job for this reason.

How can I pay off my student loans in full without getting overwhelmed?

Paying off loans can feel like a big task. Here are some tips:

• Make a budget to see where your money goes
• Set small, doable goals for extra payments
• Celebrate your progress along the way
• Use autopay to make sure you don’t miss payments

Remember, any extra payment helps. Don’t stress if you can’t pay a lot extra right away.

What’s the best plan for tackling student loans with different interest rates?

When you have loans with different rates:

• Pay the minimum on all loans
• Put extra money toward the highest-interest loan first
• Once that’s paid off, move to the next highest rate

This method saves you the most money over time because it helps you pay less in interest overall.

How To Pay Off Student Loans Faster by Starting a Side Hustle – Summary

I hope you enjoyed my article on how to pay off your student loans faster by starting a side hustle.

Paying off student loans can feel overwhelming, but starting a side hustle is a powerful way to speed up the process.

By earning extra income and dedicating it to your loan payments, you can reduce your debt quicker and save on interest in the long run.

Whether it’s freelancing, blogging, reselling items online, or something else, there are many side hustle options that can fit into your schedule.

With a clear plan, specific goals, and consistent effort, you’ll be surprised at how quickly you can make progress on paying off your student loans.

Do you have student loans? What are you doing to pay them off?

Recommended reading:

Do you want to find the best apps to earn gift cards for free?

There are lots of apps that can help you do just that. These apps let you get rewards like free gift cards or cash for things you might already be doing, like shopping online, playing games, or taking surveys.

Many of these apps are free to use and only take a few minutes each day. You could earn gift cards for places like Amazon, Target, or Starbucks just by using your phone.

I’ve personally earned over $1,000 in free gift cards using many of the apps listed below. It’s an easy way to save money and get free gift cards for popular stores and brands.

Best Apps To Earn Gift Cards

Here’s a quick list before we begin:

Below are the best apps to earn gift cards for free.

1. Freecash

Freecash is an app that lets you earn gift cards and money by doing fun tasks (and it’s also one of my favorite apps to earn gift cards for free by playing games). You can play games, try new apps, and answer surveys to get rewards.

It’s easy to use and you just sign up and start doing activities. For each task you finish, you get coins. These coins can be turned into real money or gift cards.

Many people use Freecash every day to make extra cash. Some offers can even pay over $300!

I have personally made $302 just by playing a game on Freecash on my phone, and it only took one week. I turned it into free gift cards.

When you’re ready to cash out, you have many choices. You can get PayPal money, gift cards for stores like Amazon, or even cryptocurrency. The best part is that you can get your rewards fast, usually on the same day you ask for them. Whenever I redeem my points, I almost always get the gift card delivered to me within seconds.

Click here to sign up for Freecash.

Recommended reading: Freecash Review – Is Freecash Legit?

2. Swagbucks

Swagbucks is one of the best apps to earn gift cards, and you can use it on your computer or phone. It’s easy to sign up and start earning points called SB.

I have personally earned over 110 free gift cards on Swagbucks over the years, so I know this is real!

There are lots of ways to get points. You can take surveys, watch videos, play games, and shop online. Even searching the web can earn you points!

When you have enough SB, you can trade them for gift cards. You can get gift cards to Amazon, Target, Walmart, Apple, or even PayPal cash.

Sign up for Swagbucks here (and earn $5 in free bonus points).

Recommended reading: Swagbucks Review – How Much Can You Earn On Swagbucks?

3. Fetch Rewards

Fetch Rewards is a fun app that lets you earn gift cards by taking pictures of your receipts. It’s super easy to use and I use it for all of my grocery receipts every week!

When you buy stuff at stores or restaurants, just take a photo of your receipt with your phone (you just open the Fetch app and it takes one quick moment to do). You’ll get points for each receipt you scan.

You can scan receipts from all kinds of places – grocery stores, clothing shops, gas stations, and more.

The more receipts you scan, the more points you earn. You can then trade these points for gift cards to popular stores like Amazon, Target, and Starbucks.

Fetch Rewards is free to download and use. You don’t need to do anything special while shopping. Just buy what you normally would and scan the receipt after.

You can earn extra points by buying certain products that Fetch features in the app. But you don’t have to buy those to get rewards because every receipt earns you points.

You can sign up for Fetch Rewards by clicking here.

Recommended reading: Fetch Rewards Review

4. InboxDollars

InboxDollars is a popular app that lets you earn gift cards and cash rewards. You can make money by doing simple tasks on your phone or computer.

The app has many ways to earn, such as taking surveys, watching videos, and playing games. You can also shop online and get cash back for your purchases.

One nice feature is the ability to scan receipts for rewards. This means you can earn money from things you’re already buying.

InboxDollars pays you in real cash, not just points. You can choose to get paid via PayPal or with gift cards.

Sign up for InboxDollars here and get a free $5 bonus.

5. MyPoints

MyPoints is a rewards program that gives you many ways to earn gift cards. You can get points by shopping online, buying groceries, taking surveys, and watching videos.

When you collect enough points, you can trade them for gift cards. You can get free gift cards from popular places like Amazon, Target, Walmart, and Starbucks. The cards range from around $5 to $25.

If you prefer cash, you can also get paid through PayPal. This gives you more freedom to use your rewards how you want.

You can sign up for MyPoints by clicking here.

6. Rakuten

Rakuten is a popular site that lets you earn cash back on your online purchases. It’s easy to use and can help you save money while shopping.

I use Rakuten for almost all of my online purchases (I only don’t use it when I have simply forgotten!), and it has saved me a lot of money over the years. I recently got $90 in cash back from one online purchase, for example.

When you shop through Rakuten, you get a percentage of your purchase back as cash. The app works with many well-known stores like Amazon, Walmart, and Target.

To start earning, just download the Rakuten app and create an account. Then, browse the app for stores you want to shop at. Click on the store’s link in Rakuten before you start shopping.

Rakuten tracks your purchases and adds cash back to your account. You can get your earnings as a check or through PayPal. Some stores even offer bonus cash back during special promotions.

The app is free to use and doesn’t require any extra work. You just shop like normal and get money back, so it’s a simple way to save on things you’re already buying.

Rakuten also has a browser extension for easier use on your computer. This reminds you to activate cash back when you visit partner stores online. I highly recommend downloading this so that you don’t miss out on easy cash back.

Now, Rakuten doesn’t give free gift cards, but they give you straight cash back, such as via a check or PayPal, which is really nice!

You can sign up for Rakuten here and get a $30 sign-up bonus.

7. Upside

Upside is a handy app that helps you earn cash back on everyday purchases. You can get money back when you buy gas, groceries, or food from restaurants, but I find that most people mainly use this app for gas (which is what I do!).

The app is free to download and easy to use. You can earn up to 25 cents per gallon on gas, and if you’re a new user, then there are typically deals for up to 90 cents cash back per gallon.

When you’re ready to cash out, you have a few options. You can send the money right to your bank account or PayPal. Or you can choose gift cards from popular stores like Amazon and Walmart.

Upside stands out because it gives you real cash, not just points. This makes it simple to use your earnings however you want. Plus, you’re saving money on things you already buy (nearly everyone buys gas!).

You can sign up for Upside by clicking here.

8. Honey

Honey is a free app that can help you save money when you shop online. It’s easy to use – just add it to your web browser. When you’re ready to buy something, Honey looks for discount codes for you.

You don’t have to do anything extra. Honey finds the codes and puts them in your cart, so this can save you both time and money.

Honey works with over 30,000 stores. You can use it at places like Macy’s, Lowe’s, and many more. It’s great for buying clothes, food, or even planning a trip.

When you shop using Honey, you can earn rewards points. These points can be traded for gift cards to your favorite stores like Macy’s, Walmart, Gap, Sephora, Nordstrom, Target, DoorDash, Nike, and more.

You can learn more about Honey by clicking here.

9. Ibotta

Ibotta is a popular app that lets you earn cash back on your everyday purchases, like groceries.

To get started with Ibotta, download the app and create an account. Then, browse through the available offers before you go grocery shopping.

When you’re at the store, buy the items that have offers that you want to buy (of course, don’t buy things just because you’re getting a deal – you should actually want/need them!). After shopping, take a photo of your receipt and upload it to the app. Ibotta will match your purchases to the offers and give you cash back.

For example, you might get 35 cents cash back on grapes, $3 cash back on diapers, $1 cash back on bread, and more. It’s kind of like getting a coupon on the items.

Once you reach $20 in earnings, you can cash out. You can choose from gift cards (like Walmart, DoorDash, Home Depot, Lowe’s, T.J.Maxx, and more) or have the money sent to your bank account.

Personally, I like to use both Fetch Rewards and Ibotta on all of my grocery shopping receipts – it is really easy to do.

You can sign up for Ibotta by clicking here.

10. Ipsos iSay

Ipsos iSay is a popular site that lets you earn gift cards by taking surveys. You can use it on your phone or computer to share your thoughts and get rewards.

When you sign up, you’ll answer some questions about yourself. This helps Ipsos iSay find surveys that fit you best, then you’ll get emails when there are new surveys to take.

The surveys ask about things like what you buy and what you like. They might show you ads and ask what you think. Your answers help companies make better products.

You earn points for each survey you finish. The number of points depends on how long the survey is and surveys are usually around 5-30 minutes long. When you have enough points, you can trade them for gift cards.

You can get gift cards from places like Amazon, Starbucks, and Target. If you prefer cash, you can choose PayPal instead. Some people even use their points to donate to charity.

Please click here to sign up for Ipsos iSay and get a free 250 points for joining.

11. KashKick

KashKick is an app where you can earn gift cards and cash for doing fun tasks. You can make money by taking surveys, playing games, and trying out new products.

One fun thing about KashKick is that you can play popular games like Monopoly GO, Yahtzee, Bingo Blitz, and Wheel of Fortune to earn money. For example, you might get $30 for reaching a certain level in Monopoly within 8 days.

KashKick also has lots of survey options. These usually take less than 20 minutes and can pay between $1 and $5 each. It’s an easy way to share your thoughts and make some extra cash.

You can cash out your earnings through PayPal once you reach $10.

Sign up for KashKick here.

Recommended reading: KashKick Review: Is It Worth It?

12. Survey Junkie

Survey Junkie is a popular app for earning gift cards by answering surveys.

You can take surveys on your phone or computer. Each survey gives you points and these points can be turned into gift cards or cash.

Survey Junkie has a low cash-out minimum where you only need $5 worth of points to get your reward.

The app is free to join. It’s available for both Android and iPhone users. You can easily check for new surveys whenever you have free time.

Sign up for Survey Junkie here.

Recommended reading: Survey Junkie Review

13. Branded Surveys

Branded Surveys is a fun way to make some extra cash. You can earn points by taking surveys about products and services.

Each survey pays between 50 cents and $5, depending on how long it takes.

You can cash out your points once you reach 500. That’s equal to $5. You can choose to get paid through PayPal or pick from over 100 gift card options like Amazon and Apple.

The best part? You only need to be 16 years old to join, whereas most other survey sites require you to be 18. This makes Branded Surveys a great option for teens looking to earn some spending money.

Sign up for Branded Surveys here and receive a free 100-point sign-up bonus.

Recommended reading: Branded Surveys Review: How Much You Can Earn

14. Prime Opinion

Prime Opinion is a survey website where you can earn money by sharing your thoughts. You can take surveys about everyday things like products, TV shows, and more.

There are usually many surveys to choose from, so you can work whenever you want. I just logged in and I currently have 29 different surveys available for me to take, which is a lot!

The site is easy to use on your phone or computer. You pick which surveys to do based on how long they take and how much they pay. Sometimes you might not qualify for a survey, but that’s normal. Just try another one.

Prime Opinion pays you because companies want to know what you think; your opinions help them make better products.

You can cash out your earnings through PayPal, bank transfer, or gift cards to places like Amazon and Target.

Please click here to sign up for Prime Opinion and get up to a $5 free bonus (500 free bonus points).

Recommended reading: Prime Opinion Review: How Much Does Prime Opinion Pay?

15. Scrambly

Scrambly is a fun app that lets you earn gift cards by playing games and trying new apps. It’s easy to use and you can start earning rewards right away.

The app has lots of games and other apps for you to try. You pick the ones you like and start playing. As you play, you earn coins. Some popular games they have available include Domino Dreams, Solitaire Smash, Dice Dreams, and Coin Master.

I actually had 153 games available for me to play when I logged in, as well as over 10 different apps that I could download and try.

Once you have enough coins, you can trade them for gift cards. You only need $1 worth of coins to get your first gift card. That’s pretty quick!

Gift card options include Visa, Amazon, PayPal, Google Play, Apple, Spotify, and Walmart.

Please click here to sign up for Scrambly.

16. Five Surveys

Five Surveys is an easy way to make some extra money online. You can earn $5 for every five surveys you finish. It’s pretty simple to use. When you sign up, you’ll see lots of surveys ready for you to take.

I logged in and currently have 23 surveys that I can take, ranging from 3 minutes to 42 minutes long (most were around 10-15 minutes long, though).

The surveys ask about different things like what you buy, where you shop, and what you like to do. Don’t worry – the questions are easy to answer. You don’t need to be an expert on anything.

One great thing about Five Surveys is that you can cash out quickly. Once you’ve done five surveys, you can get your $5. You can choose to get paid through PayPal, bank transfer, Venmo, or free gift cards (they have over 140 options).

Please click here to sign up for Five Surveys.

Recommended reading: Five Surveys Review

17. HeyCash

HeyCash is an app where you can earn money and gift cards. You can make extra cash by doing fun tasks like taking surveys and trying new offers like playing games or downloading apps.

As you complete tasks, you earn points. You can turn them into real money or gift cards when you’re ready.

You can click here to sign up for HeyCash.

18. PrizeRebel

PrizeRebel is a free website where you can earn gift cards and cash rewards. You can make money by taking surveys about products you use every day.

When you finish surveys, you get points. You can trade these points for gift cards from popular stores like Amazon, Target, and Walmart. You can also get cash through PayPal.

The surveys usually pay between 25 cents and $1 each. Some might pay more. PrizeRebel works with many research companies, so you’ll have lots of surveys to choose from.

Sign up for PrizeRebel by clicking here.

19. Capital One Shopping

Capital One Shopping is a free tool that helps you find deals and earn rewards on your online shopping.

You can use Capital One Shopping as a browser extension or mobile app. When you shop, it looks for lower prices and coupon codes for you. This means you don’t have to search for deals yourself.

The tool also lets you earn points on your purchases. You can trade these points for gift cards at many stores.

Capital One Shopping is easy to use. Just add it to your browser or download the app on your phone. Then shop like normal. The tool works in the background to save you money.

You can earn points on your purchases too. I have personally redeemed my Capital One Shopping points for free T.J.Maxx and Old Navy gift cards. They have many other options as well, such as REI, CVS Pharmacy, Chewy, Grubhub, and more.

20. Mistplay

Mistplay is a free app that lets you earn gift cards by playing mobile games.

When you download Mistplay, you’ll see a list of games to choose from, such as word puzzles, strategy games, and even classic games like Solitaire. Pick ones that look interesting to you and start playing.

The more you play, the more units you earn in the app. These units can be traded for gift cards to places like Amazon, Google Play, and PayPal.

Mistplay offers different types of games. You might find word puzzles, strategy games, or even old favorites like Solitaire.

21. Shopkick

Shopkick is an app that lets you earn gift cards while shopping. You can get rewards for things you already do, like walking into stores or buying stuff.

The app gives you points called “kicks” for different actions. You can earn kicks by scanning product barcodes in stores. You can also get kicks for watching videos or checking out online offers.

When you shop at partner stores, you can earn even more kicks. Just link your credit card to the app. Then you’ll get points when you make purchases at those places.

Shopkick works with lots of popular stores. These include Target, Walmart, and Best Buy. You can also earn kicks at grocery stores and restaurants.

Once you have enough kicks, you can trade them for gift cards. You can choose from many stores like Amazon, Starbucks, or Target.

22. Rewarded Play

Rewarded Play is an app that lets you earn gift cards by playing games on your phone. It’s available for Android users in the U.S. and Canada.

The app has a big selection of games to choose from. You can find strategy, puzzle, word, and card games, so there’s something for everyone!

To start earning, just download the app and pick a game you like. Play the game and you’ll collect points. Once you have enough points, you can trade them for gift cards.

You can get gift cards from popular stores like Amazon and Walmart.

Frequently Asked Questions

Below are answers to common questions about the best apps to earn gift cards.

Are free gift card apps legit?

Yes, many free gift card apps are legit. They make money from ads and partnerships. Then they share some of that money with you as points that you can turn into free gift cards.

How do free gift card apps work?

These apps give you points for doing tasks. You might take surveys, watch videos, or play games. When you have enough points, you can trade them for gift cards. Some apps also give you cash back when you shop at certain stores.

What is the best app to earn a gift card?

I think some of the best apps to earn a gift card for free include Freecash, Swagbucks, and Fetch Rewards. You can take surveys, watch videos, and shop to earn points, which are easy things to do.

Can I really earn gift cards by playing games? What is the best app to earn gift cards playing games?

Yes, you can earn gift cards by playing games on some apps. These games are usually simple and easy to play. You might need to reach certain levels or play for a set time to earn rewards. I think the best app to earn gift cards by playing games is Freecash, and I have personally made over $300 in free gift cards by playing games on Freecash.

What are the best apps to earn gift cards on Android?

Android users have many choices for gift card apps. Swagbucks, Fetch Rewards, and Freecash work well on Android phones. These apps are free to download from the Google Play Store.

What are the best apps to earn gift cards on the iPhone?

iPhone users can earn gift cards with apps. Swagbucks and Fetch Rewards are top choices for iOS. InboxDollars and Freecash also have iPhone apps that work well. You can find these in the App Store.

Best Apps To Earn Gift Cards – Summary

I hope you enjoyed my article on the best apps to earn gift cards for free.

If you want to earn free gift cards, there are many apps that can make it easy and fun to do so. Whether you’re shopping, playing games, or taking surveys, these apps reward you for things you’re already doing. Many of them are free to use and only take a few minutes of your time each day.

Some of the most popular apps include Swagbucks, Fetch Rewards, and Freecash. Each one offers different tasks, from scanning receipts to completing fun challenges, making it simple to turn your spare time into real rewards.

In summary, earning free gift cards through apps is not only possible – I’ve done it myself! By using apps like Swagbucks and Fetch Rewards, I’ve earned over $1,000 in free gift cards. With just a few minutes each day, you can start collecting rewards and save money on everything from groceries to clothes, or even food delivery. Give it a try – you’ll be amazed at how fast the rewards add up!

What are your favorite apps to earn gift cards for free?

Recommended reading:

Are you looking for the best winter side hustles?

Winter can be a great time to pick up a side hustle and make extra money. As the temperatures drop, you might find yourself with more free time and the perfect chance to earn income.

Or, perhaps you’re looking for winter side hustles so that you can put money toward the holiday season.

Whatever your reason is, finding the right winter side hustle can bring in extra cash and make the most of your time.

Best Winter Side Hustles

Below are the best winter side hustles.

1. Snow removal

Snow removal is a great way to make extra money in the winter. When snow covers everything, people need help clearing their driveways, sidewalks, and even their roofs. You can offer to shovel snow or use a snow blower.

It’s a service that many people will pay for, especially after heavy snowfall.

You don’t need much to start and to find potential clients. Basic tools like a sturdy shovel, warm clothes, and maybe a snow blower will do. A snow blower can be a good investment if you plan to help a lot of people. It makes the job faster and easier, which means you can help more customers.

2. Sell printables on Etsy

Selling printables on Etsy is a great way to make extra money during the winter. Printables are digital files that buyers can download and print at home. This side hustle is perfect if you want to work from home and set your own hours.

You can design things like planners, calendars, art prints, or even holiday-themed items. If you enjoy being creative, this could be a perfect fit for you.

You don’t need a lot of experience to get started. There are many online tutorials to help you learn how to design and list your printables.

Selling printables allows you to earn passive income. Once you upload your designs, they can be sold over and over without any extra work. It’s a great way to make money while you sleep!

You can learn more at How I Make Money Selling Printables On Etsy.

3. Selling handmade crafts

Winter is a great time to make and sell handmade crafts. People love cozy and unique items during the colder months. Plus, handmade gifts are perfect for holidays.

You can knit scarves, hats, and mittens. These items are always in demand. You can also make holiday ornaments and decorations.

If you enjoy making crafts, you can sell them online. Websites like Etsy make it easy to reach buyers. Another option is to showcase your products at local holiday markets in a booth. These events are popular in winter.

4. Paid online surveys

Paid online surveys are a great way to make extra money during the winter. Many websites pay you for sharing your opinions. It’s simple, and you can do it from the comfort of your home.

Paid online surveys might not make you rich, but they are a fun and easy way to earn some extra money.

The survey companies I recommend signing up for include:

1. Prime Opinion
2. Swagbucks
3. Branded Surveys
4. Five Surveys
5. PrizeRebel
6. American Consumer Opinion
7. Survey Junkie
8. InboxDollars

I’ve done lots of surveys over the years and have earned over 100 free gift cards. What I like about them is that you can do them whenever you want – in the morning, at lunchtime, or before bed. You don’t need to follow a strict schedule, and they’re really easy to do.

5. Freelance writing

Freelance writing is a great side hustle in the winter. If you like writing, this might be perfect for you because you can work from home and stay warm in the winter!

As a freelance writer, you can write many things. This includes blog posts, articles, and even short stories. You get paid by the word or by the project.

I have been a freelance writer for years, and I love how flexible this side hustle is. You can take on as many or as few writing projects as you’d like, which can be great if you are looking for a way to make extra income only in the winter.

6. Pet sitting

Pet sitting is a great way to make money during the winter. You get to stay inside and be warm while taking care of pets.

Many people travel during the holidays so they need someone to look after their furry friends. This is where you come in!

Pet sitters might feed cats, walk dogs, or even cuddle them. Pet owners will pay you to make sure their pets are happy and safe.

There are apps like Rover that can help you get started. These apps let you find pet sitting gigs easily. You just create a profile, and people can hire you. Or, you can even put up flyers on a local bulletin board (such as at a grocery store or community center near you).

7. Virtual assistant

Becoming a virtual assistant is a great side hustle to start this winter. As a virtual assistant, you can work from the comfort of your home, helping businesses or busy individuals with different tasks.

You might handle scheduling, email management, social media, or even simple bookkeeping tasks. This role is very flexible, and you can choose how many hours you work each week.

If you are organized and good at multitasking, this job could be a perfect fit for you. Many people are looking for help with their daily tasks, and you could be the one to assist them.

The pay for virtual assistants can vary. Some earn an hourly rate, while others might charge per task or project. On average, virtual assistants can earn between $15 and $30 an hour, depending on their skills and experience.

8. Renting out winter gear

Winter is a great time to make money by renting out gear like skis, snowboards, and sleds. Many people want to enjoy winter sports, but buying new gear can be expensive.

If you already own winter gear, renting it out can bring in extra cash. People often look for affordable ways to enjoy winter activities without spending a lot on new equipment.

Make sure your gear is in good condition, and this may mean that you clean it and check for any damage. This way, your renters will have a good experience and might come back next season.

9. House sitting

House sitting is a great winter side hustle. Many people travel during the cold months, leaving their homes empty so they need someone to watch over their house while they are away.

A house sitter’s main job is to keep the house safe. They might need to water plants, collect mail, and sometimes care for pets. It’s pretty easy and can be quite relaxing.

You can find house sitting gigs through websites like Rover or local community boards. Some people even turn this into a regular side job, bouncing from house to house.

10. Online tutoring

Online tutoring is a great way to make extra money during the winter. You can teach kids or adults in different subjects.

Many platforms let you choose your own rates and hours, so you can work when it suits you. Plus, some parents like to fit in extra tutoring during the winter months because there are a lot more days off from school, and they don’t want their child to fall behind.

11. Catering for holiday events

Catering for holiday events can be a great way to make extra money in the winter. Many companies and families throw parties during the holiday season. They need people to help prepare food, serve meals, and clean up after the events.

A typical catering shift can last anywhere from 7 to 10 hours. This means you can earn a good amount of money in just one day.

Catering jobs can be found through local catering companies, event planning services, or online job boards. It can be a flexible side hustle that fits around your other commitments. Some events might be on weekends or evenings, which is perfect if you have a day job.

12. Blogging

Blogging can be a great winter side hustle. You can start a blog right from your home, making it perfect for cold days.

For me, I worked on my blog as a side hustle for a couple of years before it became my full-time job. And in the winter, I would typically take some extra days off around the holidays so that I could use all of my vacation days at the end of the year, and I would use those “off” days for working on my blog as a side hustle!

I have free training that you can take – How To Start A Blog FREE Course. Want to see how I built a $5,000,000 blog? In this free course, I show you how to create a blog, from the technical side to earning your first income and attracting readers.

13. Holiday decorating

Holiday decorating can be a fun and profitable winter side hustle. Many people love the festive look during the holiday season but don’t have the time or skills to decorate.

You can offer your services to decorate homes, businesses, or event spaces. You get to play with lights, tinsel, and ornaments to create a magical atmosphere.

Word of mouth is extremely important and helpful with this type of side hustle, so make sure that you are providing a high-quality service where you get repeat customers!

14. Dropshipping winter products

Dropshipping is a great way to make money without having to keep inventory. You can sell winter products that people need when it’s cold.

Thermal clothes are a must-have. They help people stay warm and are very popular in the winter. Jackets, gloves, and scarves are also useful items you can offer.

Another great idea is selling foot warmers and coffee thermal cups. These are small but very handy. People love them on chilly mornings. Beanies and winter hats for children are also items that parents often look for during winter.

15. Christmas tree lot

Working at a Christmas tree lot is a fun way to make extra money during the holiday season.

You’ll help families in finding the perfect tree, wrap it up, and load it into their cars. The job also includes tasks like setting up displays, trimming branches, and keeping the lot neat and tidy.

Christmas tree lots typically start popping up in November and last through Christmas.

16. Ski instructor

Becoming a ski instructor can be a fun way to make money in the winter. You get to enjoy the snowy mountains while helping others learn how to ski.

If you are good at skiing and like working with people, this could be a great side hustle. Ski instructors often get paid around $20 to $30 per hour and get benefits like free lift passes.

This side hustle is especially common in areas with big ski resorts. If you live near one or can travel, it might be the perfect winter job for you.

17. Babysit

Babysitting is a great winter side hustle for many reasons, such as parents may need help during the holiday season. They have parties to attend, shopping to do, and sometimes just want a night out.

Babysitting can be a flexible job. You can work around your schedule. If you are a student, you can babysit after classes. On weekends, you can take on more hours.

18. Greeting card making

Greeting card making is a fun and crafty side hustle, perfect for winter and having a flexible side hustle. You can create custom cards for holidays, birthdays, or special occasions.

To get started, you need some supplies like cardstock, markers, and decorations. You can find these at craft stores or online.

Once you have your supplies, start designing your cards. You can draw, paint, or even use a computer program to create your designs. Add some thoughtful messages inside to make them special.

Selling your cards can be easy too. You can sell them online on online platforms like Etsy or at local craft fairs and markets. It’s a great way to reach people who love handmade items.

I actually love buying custom greeting cards, and I just bought one for my husband for a holiday. I bought it on Etsy and I love how it’s a card that I was able to customize just for him.

19. Mail delivery

Companies like UPS and FedEx hire thousands of extra workers during the winter months so that they can stay on top of holiday orders.

This can be a great place to look for a winter side job!

20. Seasonal retail jobs

During the winter, stores get super busy, especially around the holidays. This is when many shops need extra help. Seasonal retail jobs can be a great way for you to make some extra money.

Many stores offer flexible hours, so you can work part-time. This makes it easier if you have other commitments, like school or another job.

Many retailers start hiring for seasonal positions in September or October. It’s a good idea to apply early if you’re interested.

21. Work one-time gigs on Craigslist

If you don’t want a permanent side hustle, working one-time gigs might be perfect for you. Craigslist has a section just for these gigs. You can find work that fits your schedule.

One of the great things about these gigs is that you often get paid right after you finish the job. This can be really helpful, especially around the holidays.

There are many different types of one-time gigs on Craigslist. For example, you might find jobs like removing yard debris, cleaning houses, or moving big plants.

22. Winter photography

Family photography can be a great side hustle in the winter.

Many families like to get together during the winter months, which means that they also like to take family photos since everyone is in one place.

You can host short photo sessions called mini-sessions, lasting from 20 to 45 minutes. These are popular because they’re quick yet capture great moments, and they’re affordable for families.

Recommended reading: 18 Ways To Get Paid To Take Pictures

23. Firewood delivery

Firewood delivery can be a great way to earn extra money in the winter.

People with fireplaces and wood-burning stoves need a steady supply of firewood. You can sell bundles or full cords of wood straight to their doorsteps.

24. Gift wrapping

Gift wrapping is a great winter side hustle that you can do from home. Many people have a hard time making their presents look perfect, and they may not have the time or skill to wrap gifts beautifully.

During the holiday season, there is high demand for gift wrapping services. People buy gifts for Christmas, Hanukkah, and other celebrations. You can offer your services to family, friends, and neighbors. You can also advertise online or on community boards.

You don’t need many supplies to get started, and you most likely just need to buy some wrapping paper, ribbons, and bows. You might also need tape, scissors, and gift tags. You can find these items at local stores or online.

Frequently Asked Questions

Below are answers to common questions about how to find winter side hustles.

How to make extra cash in the winter?

You can make extra cash in the winter by removing snow for neighbors, selling printables on Etsy, or creating handmade crafts to sell online. Paid online surveys and freelance writing are also great indoor options. These activities can add up and give you a nice income boost during the cold months of the winter.

What are some fun ways for kids to earn money during the winter?

Kids can earn money in the winter by shoveling snow for neighbors or setting up a hot cocoa stand. They can also make and sell handmade crafts, like holiday decorations. Pet sitting is another idea, especially for families traveling during the holiday season.

How to make money in the winter as a landscaper?

Landscapers can make money in the winter by selling snow removal services such as shoveling driveways and sidewalks. You can also provide winter preparation services like wrapping plants to protect them from the cold. In addition, putting up and taking down holiday lights for homeowners can be a valuable service during the holiday season.

What are some outdoor winter side hustles?

Outdoor winter side hustles include snow removal and teaching winter sports like skiing or snowboarding. These activities can be both enjoyable and profitable, allowing you to enjoy the winter season while making extra money.

Best Winter Side Hustles – Summary

I hope you enjoyed this article on the best winter side hustles.

Many people look for jobs in the winter, and luckily many businesses are hiring as well!

There are many winter side hustles, such as snow shoveling, selling on Etsy, answering surveys, freelancing, pet sitting, house sitting, holiday decorating services, and finding a part-time job.

What do you think are the best winter side hustles?

Recommended reading:

Looking for ways to earn Amazon gift cards by playing games?

Playing games on your phone or computer can be a great way to get Amazon gift cards. Many game apps and websites pay real money for trying out new games or reaching certain levels.

I’ve been able to make real money just by playing games on my phone during my downtime. In fact, I’ve made $302 in a single week from one game that I put toward free Amazon gift cards!

You can earn free gift cards by playing puzzle games, word games, strategy games, and more. The amount you can earn varies, but some people make enough for small treats or even bigger purchases on Amazon. It’s an easy way to get rewarded for something you might already enjoy doing in your free time.

Best Ways To Earn Amazon Gift Cards by Playing Games

Here’s a quick list of the best apps to earn gift cards playing games:

1. Freecash
2. Swagbucks
3. KashKick
4. InboxDollars

Below are the best ways to earn Amazon gift cards by playing games.

1. Freecash

Freecash is a fun way to make money by playing games on your phone, and I think it’s one of the best game apps to win Amazon gift cards. You can earn real cash or gift cards just by trying out different games and completing tasks.

I personally know that Freecash is real because I have earned a little over $720 from this site and received $720 in free Amazon gift cards. And, I have personally earned $302 from playing one game on my phone on Freecash. You can read more about my experience at How I Made $302.80 Playing Games on My Phone (In One Week).

When you sign up for Freecash, you’ll see a list of games to choose from. Each game has its own reward amount. Some games might offer more money than others, so it’s good to check what’s available.

Since I’ve already played one game on Freecash, I have a ton of options available to me (once you play a game, more open up) – 558 games show for me right now. Monopoly, Solitaire Grand Harvest, Wheel of Fortune, Dice Dreams, Puzzles, Match Tile, and more.

You don’t need to spend any money to start playing and earning. Many games give you free daily credits, which is usually enough to reach the rewards. Some games might ask if you want to buy things, but you don’t have to.

The time it takes to earn money can vary. You might spend a few hours a day for about a week to earn a good amount. As you play more, you’ll get better at the games and might earn faster.

Remember, the games you see might change based on your device (Android vs. iOS vs. desktop) and where you live. You’ll usually start with a few games, and more will show up as you keep playing.

Click here to sign up for Freecash.

2. Swagbucks

Swagbucks is a fun way to earn Amazon gift cards by playing games. You can also make money doing other things like taking surveys and watching videos.

When you play games on Swagbucks, you earn points called SB. These points can be traded for gift cards or cash (such as to Amazon, Best Buy, Visa, and PayPal cash). You need 100 SB to get $1.

To play games on Swagbucks, you simply head to the “Play” tab when you are logged in. When I logged in, I had over 50 available games that I could get paid to play. Some of the games available include Monopoly Go!, Animals & Coins, Solitaire Smash, Bingo Blitz, and so many more.

I have earned over 110 free gift cards (I mainly turn my points into Amazon gift cards) over the years.

If you join Swagbucks through my referral link, you can receive a $10 bonus.

3. KashKick

KashKick is a fun way to get Amazon gift cards by playing games on your phone. It’s not just games though – you can also make money by watching videos and answering surveys.

There are many different games you can play on KashKick such as:

• Coin Master
• Yahtzee
• Family Island
• Bingo Blitz
• Solitaire Smash
• Monopoly GO
• Scrabble Go

For example, here’s how you can make money on KashKick playing Monopoly: Let’s say you want to play Monopoly GO. You install the game and play for a few days. If you reach certain levels within set time limits, you get paid. You could earn $30, then $40, and another $50 – adding up to $120 total!

Please click here to sign up for KashKick for free.

4. InboxDollars

InboxDollars is a fun way to earn Amazon gift cards by playing games. It’s been around since 2000 and they have given out lots of rewards to its users.

When I log in, I see around 40 games available for me to play. Some of the games include Puzzles & Chaos, Toy Blast, Coin Master, Block Blast, Solitaire Clash, Wood Blocks, SpongeBob Adventures, Word Farm, and more.

InboxDollars is easy to use and you can just go to the “Games” tab to start playing and earning. Then, you can turn your rewards into free gift cards such as to Amazon, PayPal, Apple, and more.

Playing games isn’t the only way to earn on InboxDollars. You can also make money by taking online surveys, shopping online, and reading emails. This gives you more chances to earn rewards.

Sign up for InboxDollars here and get a free $5 bonus.

5. Fetch Rewards

Fetch Rewards is mainly a grocery receipt scanning app (which is another super easy way to earn free Amazon gift cards), but it also has a section of their app dedicated to playing games.

Some of the games you can play include Balloon Master, Goods Sorting, and Car Parking.

You can sign up for Fetch Rewards here. 

6. PrizeRebel

PrizeRebel is an easy platform where you can earn Amazon gift cards. It’s been around since 2007 and has given out over $30 million in rewards to its members.

You can earn free Amazon gift cards by playing games and answering surveys on PrizeRebel.

You can sign up for PrizeRebel here.

7. Mistplay

Mistplay is a popular app that lets you earn free Amazon gift cards by playing games on your phone. It’s free to download and use, making it easy to get started.

When you join Mistplay, you can explore new games or play old favorites. Some games you might find include Words with Friends, Solitaire, and Merge Dragons.

8. Rewarded Play

Rewarded Play is a very popular app with over 10,000,000 downloads where you can earn gift cards by playing games on your phone. There are over 214,000 reviews with an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars, so I think it’s quite popular!

You can pick from lots of popular games to play. The more you play, the more points you get. These points can be swapped for gift cards from places like Amazon and Walmart.

Many people like Rewarded Play because it pays out fast. You can get your gift card within 48 hours of cashing out your points.

The app has given out over $15 million since 2016.

9. Cashyy

This is another really popular game app to win Amazon gift cards, with over 10,000,000 downloads.

The app is easy to use. You just pick games you like and start playing. As you play, you complete missions and earn coins.

You can trade these coins for gift cards and Amazon gift cards are one of the options you can choose.

10. Money Well

Money Well is a fun app that you can find on the Google Play Store that lets you earn gift cards by playing games. It’s easy to use and works on Android phones. Plus, Money Well has lots of different games to choose from, so this keeps things interesting so you don’t get bored.

One downside is that Money Well is only for Android users right now. IPhone users can’t use it yet.

11. AppStation

AppStation is a free app that lets you earn rewards by playing games on your phone. You can get Amazon gift cards and other prizes.

The app is easy to use. You pick games from their list and start playing, earning coins. These coins can be traded for gift cards.

12. Blackout Bingo

Blackout Bingo is a fun app that lets you play bingo and possibly win real money. You can play against other people from around the world.

In Blackout Bingo, you can bet money on each game, so this does mean that there are ways to spend money on in-app purchases. I do recommend being careful so that you don’t spend money that you can’t afford. The bets can be as low as $0.60 or as high as $260. If you win, you could get a cash prize.

Remember, while it’s possible to win money, there’s no guarantee. Only play with money you can afford to lose. Please, please, please always game responsibly.

13. Bubble Cash

Bubble Cash is a fun game that lets you earn Amazon gift cards while popping colorful bubbles. You can play this game on your phone or tablet whenever you have free time.

The game is easy to learn. You match bubbles of the same color to make them pop. As you pop more bubbles, you earn points and move up levels.

You can cash out your winnings for Amazon gift cards once you reach the minimum amount. The more you play and win, the more gift cards you can earn.

Remember to set a budget (because this is a game where you have to pay to play at times) and play responsibly. Bubble Cash can be a fun way to earn some extra Amazon gift cards, but it won’t replace your regular income.

14. MyPoints

MyPoints is a site where you can earn gift cards by playing games online. You can play games and get points for installing apps, reaching certain levels, and beating the games.

When you have enough points, you can trade them for Amazon gift cards. MyPoints also offers gift cards from over 75 other stores and restaurants.

Sign up for MyPoints by clicking here.

Frequently Asked Questions

Below are answers to common questions about how to earn Amazon gift cards by playing games.

Can I really earn gift cards by playing games?

Yes, you can earn Amazon gift cards by playing games. Many apps will give you free gift cards as a reward for playing. You just need to download the app, play games, and earn points. Then trade those points for gift cards.

What are the top apps that let you earn Amazon gift cards by playing games?

Some top apps for earning Amazon gift cards include Freecash, Swagbucks, and KashKick. These apps let you play games and complete tasks to earn points, and you can then trade your points for gift cards.

How can someone get a $100 Amazon gift card for free by playing games?

Getting a $100 Amazon gift card takes time and effort. You may need to use several apps and play lots of games. But, I have personally played a game on Freecash and made $302 in just one week of playing, so I know it’s possible.

Is there any game that pays real money without a deposit for free?

Yes, there are games that pay real money without needing a deposit. I played many games on Freecash and never had to pay anything in order to earn my free Amazon gift cards.

Can you actually receive Amazon gift cards by gaming on your PC?

Yes, you can earn Amazon gift cards by gaming on your PC. Some sites like Swagbucks have games you can play on your computer. They give you points for playing, which you can trade for gift cards. When I played my game on Freecash (where I earned $302 in free Amazon gift cards), I was able to choose if I wanted to play it on my desktop or on my cell phone).

What do I need to know about making money and earning gift cards through online gaming?

Earning money through gaming takes time, so don’t expect to get rich quick. Be patient and have fun. Pick games you enjoy. Read the rules for each app or site.

Is Rewarded Play a trustworthy way to earn Amazon gift cards while having fun?

Rewarded Play is a legit app for earning Amazon gift cards where you can play popular mobile games to earn points, which you can then trade for gift cards. Many users have successfully received rewards from this app.

How To Earn Amazon Gift Cards by Playing Games – Summary

I hope you enjoyed this article on how to earn Amazon gift cards by playing games.

Playing games on your phone or computer is a fun way to earn Amazon gift cards. Some apps and websites give you real money or gift cards for playing games, completing tasks, or reaching certain goals in the game.

Whether you like puzzle games or strategy games, there are options for everyone. The time you spend playing can earn you small rewards or even help you make bigger purchases on Amazon.

Some of my favorite game apps to win free Amazon gift cards include:

I have personally made money playing games on my phone, and I have plans to continue and try some more!

Have you played games online to earn free Amazon gift cards? What do you think of this side hustle?

Recommended reading:

Are you looking for the best apps that pay real money instantly?

Your phone might be the key to making extra money. Many apps now give you ways to earn real money just by using your phone. These apps let you do simple tasks like taking surveys, playing games, or shopping online.

You can start earning money right away with apps that pay instantly. Some apps send cash to your PayPal account as soon as you reach a small amount, like $5. Others give you gift cards for popular stores. It’s an easy way to make a bit of extra money in your free time.

I’ve tried several of these apps myself, and I was surprised by how quickly the rewards add up. Whether I’m playing games, taking surveys, or even just scanning my grocery receipts, these small tasks fit easily into my day. I love the convenience of cashing out instantly with PayPal or getting gift cards to places I already shop at. It’s so easy to earn money for things I’m already doing, and I’ve found that it’s a fun way to bring in extra cash without much effort.

If you’re looking for a quick and easy way to earn, these apps are a great place to start!

Best Apps That Pay Real Money Instantly

Here are my quick picks of the best apps that pay real money instantly without paying:

Below is the full list of the best apps that pay real money instantly.

1. Freecash

I personally use Freecash, and it’s one of the easiest ways I’ve found to earn a little extra cash with an app platform. Whether I’m playing games or answering surveys, the tasks are easy and fast to do.

The best part? I’ve cashed out my points multiple times with no hassle, which is always a plus for me! I also recently made $302 by playing games on my phone in just one week on Freecash.

Freecash is a website where you can earn money by doing simple tasks. You can play games (they have a wide variety of games to play like Bubble Cash, Blackout Bingo, Wheel of Fortune, Mahjong, and more!), try new apps, answer surveys, and even win cash prizes to get rewards.

When you sign up, you’ll see different offers to choose from. Each offer gives you coins when you finish it. These coins can be turned into real money (like PayPal cash or a bank transfer) or gift cards (to places like Amazon, Visa, Apple, Netflix, Doordash, and more).

Many people use Freecash every day to make extra cash. There are thousands of ways to earn on the site. Some offers pay more than others, but most are quick and easy to do.

Click here to sign up for Freecash.

You can learn more at Freecash Review – Is Freecash Legit?

2. Swagbucks

Swagbucks has been a longtime favorite of mine, and it is one of my favorite apps that pays real money instantly.

I love how versatile it is – you can earn from watching videos, taking surveys, searching the web, playing classic games, or even shopping online. I have earned over 110 free gift cards over the years, and it’s been pretty easy!

Swagbucks has paid out $609,523,925 over the years to people like you and me.

When you have enough SB (Swagbucks), you can trade them for gift cards or cash through PayPal. The minimum to cash out is $1 for certain gift cards and $5 for PayPal.

Sign up for Swagbucks here and get a free $5 bonus.

You can learn more at Swagbucks Review – How Much Can You Earn On Swagbucks?

3. InboxDollars

InboxDollars is a popular app that pays you real money for doing easy tasks. You can earn cash by taking surveys, watching videos, and shopping online. Many people like InboxDollars because it has many different ways to make money. You can pick activities that fit your schedule and interests.

The app has been around since 2000 and has paid out over $70 million to its users.

Surveys are a big part of InboxDollars. They can pay anywhere from 50 cents to $5 each. Some rare surveys might even pay $10. The time it takes to finish a survey varies. It could be as quick as 3 minutes or as long as 30 minutes.

Shopping through InboxDollars can earn you cash back. For example, you might get 1% to 10% back when you buy from stores like Best Buy or Kohl’s.

When you’re ready to redeem your points, you can turn them into gift cards to places like Amazon, Walmart, Target, Starbucks, and more.

Sign up for InboxDollars here and get a free $5 bonus.

4. KashKick

KashKick is an app that lets you earn real money by playing games and doing other fun activities. You can download it from the Google Play Store or Apple App Store and start making money right away.

KashKick has many different ways to make money. You can play games, take surveys, and try out new apps. Each activity gives you a chance to earn cash or rewards.

When you earn money on KashKick, you can get paid through PayPal. This means you can get real cash, not just gift cards or points.

Sign up for KashKick here.

5. Rakuten

Rakuten is hands down one of my favorite cash-back apps. I shop online a lot, so getting money back on things I was already going to buy feels like a win. I especially love the quarterly PayPal payments that show up like a little bonus every few months. I recently bought a kayak online and got $90 cash back, so that is a nice chunk of change!

Rakuten is an app that gives you money back when you shop online. It’s easy to use and works with lots of stores (there are over 2,500 retailers you can get cash back at) you probably already buy from such as Old Navy, Target, PetSmart, Macy’s, and more. You can even use it on travel purchases, like Princess Cruises, Hertz, Marriott, Expedia, and more

To start, just sign up for a free account. Then use the app to find deals and shop at your favorite stores. Rakuten will track your purchases and add cash back to your account.

You can get your money through PayPal or a check in the mail. Rakuten sends payments every three months, as long as you’ve earned at least $5.

You can sign up for Rakuten here and get a $30 sign-up bonus.

6. Survey Junkie

Survey Junkie is one of the easiest survey apps I’ve used. It’s good for those moments when you have just a few minutes to spare.

Survey Junkie is a popular app that pays you for sharing your opinions. It’s easy to use and has over 20 million members.

You can make between 50 cents and $5 per survey. Some special surveys might pay up to $20, depending on who they’re looking for.

Sign up for Survey Junkie here.

7. Fetch Rewards

I use Fetch Rewards every time I go grocery shopping! Taking pictures of receipts takes just seconds, and I love how the points add up. It feels like a small reward for everyday shopping, and I’ve redeemed my points for gift cards to places like Target and Amazon.

You can scan receipts from lots of places. Grocery stores, clothing stores, restaurants, and gas stations all work. Even online purchases count if you link your accounts.

Every receipt gets you at least 25 points. Some products give you bonus points. You don’t have to pick offers ahead of time or scan barcodes. You can just shop like normal and snap a picture afterward.

You can also earn points and real cash prizes by playing games on Fetch Rewards, such as Bingo and Solitaire.

You can turn your points into gift cards for places like Amazon, Target, and Starbucks. There are many options to choose from. You can also donate your points to charity if you want.

You can sign up for Fetch Rewards by clicking here.

You can also read my review at My Honest Fetch Rewards Review.

8. Mistplay

Mistplay is a free app that lets you earn money by playing games on your phone. It’s easy to use and available for Android devices.

This app has over 10,000,000 downloads and a 4.6 out of 5-star rating. They have given away over $60,000,000 to people for playing games on their app over the years. So, it’s definitely popular!

You can choose from many different games to play. The more you play, the more units you earn in the app.

These units can be traded for gift cards to places like Walmart or PayPal cash.

9. MyPoints

MyPoints is an app that lets you earn money for things you already do online. You can get points for shopping, watching videos, and taking surveys.

The app is free to use and available on both Android and iOS devices. You can cash out your earnings for gift cards or PayPal money.

MyPoints has been around since 1996, so it’s a trusted name in the rewards space. They’ve paid out millions to their members over the years.

Sign up for MyPoints by clicking here.

10. Ibotta

Ibotta is one of those apps I always recommend to friends because it’s such a no-brainer for grocery shopping. I just add offers before I head to the store and upload my receipt afterward.

It’s similar to Fetch Rewards, but it does typically give you more in points because you have to choose your offers BEFORE you go shopping.

For example, you may get (offers are constantly changing, so you will want to download the app yourself to see the current rates):

• $0.35 back for grapes
• $0.10 back for laundry detergent
• $3.00 back on diapers
• $2.00 back on pasta sauce
• $5.00 back on bodywash

And more.

Ibotta is a popular app that lets you earn cash back on your everyday purchases. You can use it for both in-store and online shopping.

You can sign up for Ibotta by clicking here.

Recommended reading: 21 Apps Like Ibotta To Earn Cash Back Shopping

11. Branded Surveys

Branded Surveys is a way to make some extra cash in your free time by sharing your thoughts on products and services in surveys. It’s super easy to join – you just need to be 16 or older and live in the U.S., Canada, or the U.K.

Each survey you take can earn you between 50 cents and $5 (the amount depends on how long the survey is).

You’ll answer questions about stuff you buy, places you shop, and things you like to do. It’s pretty simple and can be fun too. You can do surveys while watching TV or whenever you have free time.

Sign up for Branded Surveys here and receive a free 100-point sign-up bonus.

12. Scrambly

Scrambly is a fun app that lets you play games and earn money.

The app has lots of easy-to-play games like Domino Dreams, Solitaire Smash, and Dice Dreams. As you play, you earn coins. These coins can be traded for gift cards or real money.

You can also earn points for downloading financial apps like Sofi, Chime, or Capital One Shopping, as well as downloading apps like Uber Eats.

You can cash out your earnings through PayPal, Visa, or Amazon gift cards. The minimum payout is just $1, so you don’t have to wait long to get your money.

Scrambly is free to download and simple to use. There are no hidden costs or tricky sign-ups. You just play games or download apps, and collect your rewards.

Please click here to sign up for Scrambly.

13. Bingo Cash

Bingo Cash is a fun app that lets you play bingo and win real money. You can download it for free on your iPhone or Android phone.

The game is easy to play. You get a bingo card with numbers on it. As numbers are called out, you mark them off (this is all done on your phone in the app). If you get bingo, you win!

You can play against other people in cash tournaments (there are entry fees to play). Some games have prize pools of $50 or more.

Now, while this app is free to download, there are many ways to spend money within the app. So, you will want to be careful not to spend money that you can’t afford to lose.

Recommended reading: 23 Best Game Apps To Win Real Money

14. Rewarded Play

Rewarded Play is an app that lets you earn money by playing games on your phone. They have paid out $15,149,283.45 to their users already over the years. It’s easy to use and fun too!

You can choose from many popular games in the app like Monopoly, Bingo, Yahtzee, Marvel, and more. As you play, you earn coins. These coins can be traded for real cash or gift cards.

Rewarded Play pays you real money because they make money from game companies and ads. When you play games through their app, the app earns money from those companies. This can happen when you watch ads or make in-game purchases. Then, Rewarded Play shares some of that money with you as a thank you for playing the games.

The app works with PayPal for cash payouts. You can also pick gift cards from places like Amazon or Walmart.

15. Cash Giraffe

Cash Giraffe is an app that pays you for playing games on your phone. It’s free to download and use on Android devices. The app has over 10 million downloads and a 4.4-star rating (out of 5 stars) on Google Play.

You can start earning money as soon as you download Cash Giraffe. The app tracks how long you play games and rewards you based on your playtime.

Cash Giraffe has quick payouts with low cash-out requirements. You can choose to get paid in gift cards for popular stores like Amazon.

The more you play, the more you can earn. You can check your progress anytime in the app to see how close you are to your next reward. Cash Giraffe sends gift card codes by email, usually within a few hours of cashing out.

16. Upside

Upside is a free app that gives you cash back on everyday purchases. You can earn money when you buy gas, groceries, and food at restaurants. For me, I mainly use it for gas purchases, but there are some great deals in there for restaurant meals too.

To use Upside, just download the app and make an account. The app will ask to see where you are and this helps it show you deals near you.

When you’re ready to buy something, open the app and claim an offer. Then buy stuff like normal with your credit or debit card. Upside will give you cash back on your purchase.

You can usually get up to 25 cents back per gallon of gas, but sometimes I have been given an offer of 80 cents per gallon. At restaurants, you might save up to 35% on your meal.

Getting paid is easy. You can transfer your earnings to your bank, PayPal, or get a gift card. It’s an easy way to save money on things you’d buy anyway.

You can sign up for Upside by clicking here.

You can also learn more by heading to my Upside Review.

17. American Consumer Opinion

American Consumer Opinion is a website where you can get paid for sharing your thoughts. It’s free to join and open to people worldwide.

You can earn money by taking online surveys. These surveys ask about products, ads, and services. Each survey usually takes about 10 minutes to finish, but some can be much longer or shorter.

The pay for surveys varies. You might earn 100 to 5,000 points per survey. One point equals one cent, so 100 points is $1.

You can sign up for American Consumer Opinion here.

18. Taskrabbit

Taskrabbit is an app that lets you make money by doing odd jobs for people in your area. You can earn cash quickly by helping with tasks like cleaning, moving furniture, assembling furniture (such as if someone bought something from Ikea), or fixing things.

The best part is that you get paid soon after finishing a job. This makes Taskrabbit a great way to earn extra money fast when you need it.

19. DoorDash

DoorDash is an app where you can make money by delivering food. You can choose when to work and how long you want to work, so this makes it great for earning extra cash in your free time.

To make money on DoorDash, you need to sign up as a Dasher. You’ll need a car to make deliveries (and in some areas, a bike or scooter may work as well). Once approved, you can start accepting orders through the DoorDash app.

DoorDash pays you for each delivery you complete. You get to keep all your tips too. The amount you earn depends on how many orders you take and how far you drive.

You can cash out your earnings daily with Fast Pay. This means you can get your money quickly. There’s a small fee for using Fast Pay, but it can be nice if you need money right away.

DoorDash is available in many cities across the U.S. It’s a good option if you like driving and want flexible work. You can make decent money, especially during busy mealtimes.

20. Prime Opinion

Prime Opinion is an app where you earn money by taking surveys. You can sign up for free and start doing surveys right away.

There are currently over 1,000 surveys available, so you definitely have an opportunity to make money through surveys if that’s what you’re looking for.

When you’re ready, you can turn your points into cash through bank transfer (yes, you can get a deposit into your personal bank account for answering surveys), Venmo, or PayPal, or into free gift cards for places like Walmart, Uber Eats, Spotify, Google Play, and eBay.

Please click here to sign up for Prime Opinion and get up to a $5 free bonus (500 free bonus points).

21. PrizeRebel

PrizeRebel is a website that lets you earn money by taking surveys and doing other tasks online. You can join for free if you’re at least 18 years old, and it is an app that is available in many countries around the world.

The main way to make money on PrizeRebel is through surveys. Most surveys pay between 25 cents and $1. Sometimes you might find surveys that pay a few dollars.

You can also earn points by watching videos, completing offers, and playing games. These points can be turned into cash or gift cards.

PrizeRebel offers many gift card options. You can get cards from popular brands like Amazon, eBay, Apple, and Google. Most gift cards are sent to you digitally within 5 minutes. I have received many gift cards from PrizeRebel over the years, and they are very fast in sending you the gift card code.

Sign up for PrizeRebel by clicking here.

Frequently Asked Questions

Below are answers to common questions about apps that pay real money instantly.

Are there really game apps that pay real money?

Yes, there are apps that pay you real money to play games. Some of my favorite game apps that pay real money include Freecash, Swagbucks, and KashKick. I have personally earned $302 by playing Bingo Blitz on my phone in just one week.

Which app pays real money fast?

My favorite apps that pay you real money fast include Freecash and Swagbucks. Payments come very quickly once you redeem your points.

What app can I make $100 a day?

Making $100 a day from apps is hard. You’d need to use many apps (for example, you could sign up for a bunch of the apps above and do different tasks on each) and spend lots of time. Freecash might get you close if you do lots of tasks.

What apps pay real money instantly without paying?

There are many apps that pay real money instantly without paying anything, such as Freecash, Swagbucks, KashKick, and more.

Apps That Pay Real Money Instantly – Summary

I hope you enjoyed my article on the best apps that pay real money instantly.

There are several apps that pay real money instantly for easy tasks like taking surveys, playing games, or shopping online. These apps allow you to earn rewards fast, with some paying PayPal payments or gift cards once you reach a small threshold.

I have personally used many of the apps above and have earned well over 100 free gift cards over the years, and I still use many of the apps above at least once a week. So, I think they are worth it, especially for how easy it is to earn points.

What apps that pay real money instantly do you use?

Recommended reading:

Do you want to learn how to turn your hobby into a money-making business?

Do you love a hobby so much you wish you could do it all day? Well, you might be able to turn that passion into a real business! Many people have found ways to make extra money from things they enjoy doing in their free time.

Starting a business based on your hobby can be fun and rewarding. You get to spend more time doing what you love while also earning extra cash. It’s not always easy, but with some planning and hard work, you could build a business that earns you income.

I personally turned my hobby into a money-making business, and it’s one of the best decisions I’ve ever made!

How To Turn Your Hobby Into a Money-Making Business

Below are the steps to turn your hobby into a way to make money.

1. Identify your passion and skills

The first step in turning your hobby into a business is figuring out what you’re passionate about and what you’re good at.

Think about the activities you love doing in your free time. What makes you happy or excited? Write down a list of your favorite hobbies and the skills you use while doing them.

It’s also helpful to ask your friends and family what they think you’re good at. Sometimes, they notice talents you might not see in yourself. Think about what people come to you for advice on or what they compliment you about.

Finally, look back at past jobs or projects and think about the parts you enjoyed most. All of these things can help you figure out what your business could be based on. The key is to find a hobby or skill that you love and can turn into something others might want to pay for!

Here are different hobbies that you may be able to turn into a business:

• Photography
• Baking
• Gardening
• Crafting
• Blogging
• Writing
• Painting
• Pet sitting
• Fitness coaching
• Music lessons
• Sewing
• Woodworking
• Graphic design
• Video editing
• Creating printables
• Knitting
• Jewelry making
• Dog training
• Cooking classes
• Designing stickers
• Yoga
• Interior decorating
• Car detailing
• Candle making
• Pottery
• Tutoring
• Flower arranging
• Voice acting
• Playing video games
• Planning weddings
• Flipping items for resale

And so much more.

For me, blogging was first my hobby. I then eventually learned that you could make money with a blog, and I made a solid business plan to see what I could do to turn it into a full-time income. I have now made a full-time income from it for over 10 years, with no signs of stopping!

Recommended reading: 16 Best Things To Sell On Etsy To Make Money

2. Research the market

Once you know what hobby or skill you want to turn into a business, the next step is to research the market. This means figuring out if people are interested in paying for what you want to sell.

Start by looking at other businesses that do something similar. What do they sell? How much do they charge? This will help you understand what works and what customers expect.

You should also think about who might buy from you. Are they young or old? What are their interests? Knowing your audience will help you create products or services that they will love.

It’s a good idea to check online forums and social media (such as on Facebook on your personal page or in a Facebook group), or ask people in your community for their thoughts.

For me, I learned that I could make money from my hobby after I researched the market and learned from others in the industry. This was very helpful because I learned what would work and what does not!

3. Create a business plan

A business plan is like a map. It helps you figure out where you want to go and how to get there, and you’ll want to write down your goals for turning your hobby into a business.

I recommend that you think about how you’ll make money. Will you sell products? Sell services? Maybe both?

Next, list the steps you need to take. This might include things like getting supplies, setting up a website, or finding customers. Don’t forget to think about how much money you’ll need to start.

Your plan doesn’t have to be perfect and it can definitely change as you learn more. The important thing is to have a starting point as this will help you stay focused and make progress.

4. Start small

When you turn your hobby into a business, you may want to start with baby steps. You don’t need to go big right away. Instead, you may want to start by selling your items or services to people you know as just a side hustle.

Ask your friends and family if they want to buy what you make. This is a great way to get your first sales. You can also try selling to a small group of people online.

Getting feedback from these early customers is nice to have as they can tell you what they like and don’t like about your products. This information helps you make your stuff better before you sell to more people.

For me, blogging was first my side hustle, and that’s how I started small. I still had a full-time job for 2 years before I decided to blog full-time. This is because I wanted to make sure that this business idea would work for me before leaving my stable paycheck.

5. Set up a website or online presence

Creating a website or online presence (such as social media accounts) is important for your new hobby-based business. It lets you show off your work and connect with customers.

Two ways to do this include:

• Starting a website
• Starting social media accounts (such as on Facebook, TikTok, or Instagram)

I personally think that all businesses should have a website because customers like to see them. I recommend self-hosted WordPress for your website and you can get premade designs to make it super easy. You could even start a blog too – a blog can help you share your expertise and attract people interested in your hobby (you could write about tips, tricks, or interesting stories related to what you do).

Social media is another great way to get your business out there. To get started (and not feel overwhelmed), you can pick one or two platforms where your target customers hang out. Instagram works well for visual hobbies like art or crafts. Facebook might be better for local service-based businesses. TikTok is great if you want to make videos.

You’ll want to remember to include your contact info and ways for people to buy from you on your website or social profiles because you’ll want to make it easy for customers to reach you and support your new business.

6. Build a brand

Building a strong brand is an important step in making your hobby-based business stand out. Your brand is more than just a name or logo – it’s how people recognize and remember your business.

Start by choosing a memorable name that reflects what your business is about. It should be easy to say and spell. If you can, pick something that shows off the personality of your hobby.

Next, design a simple logo and pick colors or fonts that match the style of your business. Consistency is key! Use the same look and feel across your website, social media, and products. A clear, professional brand will help customers trust you and see your business as serious. Over time, your brand will grow, and people will start to recognize it as a symbol of quality and creativity.

And, this doesn’t have to cost you a ton of money either. I did nearly everything myself in the beginning. Or, you could also hire someone on Fiverr if you are on a budget. There are options to make it work!

7. Market your business

Once your hobby is ready to become a business, you need to let people know about it. Marketing is all about spreading the word and attracting customers.

There are many ways to market your new business such as:

• Sharing about your new business in Facebook groups – I have learned about so many great new hobby-based businesses through Facebook groups, such as local area groups.
• Collaborations and partnerships – Partner with other small businesses or influencers in your niche. For example, if you’re a jewelry maker, you could collaborate with a fashion blogger or boutique.
• Host giveaways and contests – Hosting a giveaway is a fun way to create buzz around your business. Ask people to follow your social media page, tag friends, or share your content for a chance to win one of your products.
• Encourage your customers to share photos or videos of them using your products – You can then feature this content on your website or social media, creating social proof and building trust with potential buyers.
• Post on social media – Posting on social media is a great way to show your hobby-based business and connect with customers. You can use platforms like TikTok, Instagram, Facebook, or Pinterest to share photos, videos, and behind-the-scenes content of your work.

8. Manage your finances

Managing your money is an important part of turning your hobby into a successful business.

You need to keep track of how much money you’re making and how much you’re spending. You can start by recording all of your sales and any costs for supplies, tools, or other expenses because this will help you understand if your business is profitable and make it easier when it’s time to pay taxes.

It’s also a good idea to set aside money for taxes from each sale so that you’re not surprised at the end of the year. To stay organized, you might want to use budgeting apps or software to keep track of everything. Keeping your business finances separate from your personal finances is wise too – it makes it easier to see how your business is doing.

9. Stay committed and make changes if needed

Turning your hobby into a business won’t always be easy, but staying committed will be important if you want to make it work.

When I started my own business, there were times when things didn’t go as planned, and I had to remind myself to stay focused on my goals. Success doesn’t happen overnight, and it’s important to keep pushing forward even when progress feels slow.

It’s also important to be flexible and ready to make any changes. I’ve learned that sometimes the best ideas come from unexpected places or from listening to feedback. I’ve done a lot of trial and error over the years to see what works best.

You might need to slightly change your products, try new marketing strategies, or even shift your focus based on what your customers want. Being open to change helped my business grow, and it can help yours too.

One thing to remember is that many, many new businesses fail within the first 6 months or year because the first year will be the hardest. You may not make much money in the beginning, so it can feel hard to stay motivated. Sometimes, creating a vision board or something similar will help keep you motivated to keep going with your business.

Frequently Asked Questions

Below are answers to common questions about how to turn your hobby into a money-making business.

Can a hobby turn into a profitable business?

Yes, hobbies can become profitable businesses. Many successful companies started as someone’s passion project. The key is to find a market for what you love doing. You’ll need to work hard and be patient, but it’s possible to earn money from your hobby.

How do I turn my hobby into a business?

To turn your hobby into a business, you can start by thinking about what you’re good at and enjoy doing. Then, see if people would pay for it. Make a simple plan for your business. Set up a website or social media page to show off your work. Start small and grow as you learn more.

What craft hobby makes the most money?

There are many craft hobbies that can make you money. Some ideas include handmade jewelry, custom woodworking, and digital products like printables.

What are cheap hobbies to make money?

Writing and blogging cost little to start because all you need is your computer and internet. You can also try selling photos online or doing voice acting from home. Flipping items from thrift stores or yard sales can be a fun, low-cost way to make extra cash.

What are hobbies that make money from home?

Many hobbies work well from home, such as a YouTube channel about your interests, selling crafts on Etsy, pet sitting or dog walking, and more.

How To Turn Your Hobby Into a Money-Making Business – Summary

I hope you enjoyed this article on how to turn your hobby into a money-making business.

Turning your hobby into a money-making business can be fun and rewarding. Many people earn extra money from things they love doing, like baking, painting, or taking photos. To get started, think about what you’re good at and enjoy. Then, research if people would be willing to pay for it. You can make a simple plan and take small steps, like creating a website or selling to friends and family.

Starting small is smart for most people because you can learn as you go and make changes if needed. Don’t give up if things don’t happen right away! With time and hard work, your hobby could turn into a real business that makes you money.

What is your hobby that you would like to turn into a business?

Recommended reading:

Do you want to learn how to make money as a travel photographer?

Photography can be an exciting way to get paid to travel. If you enjoy taking pictures and traveling, this might be your dream job. Lots of people love seeing photos from different places, and you could be the one to share them.

Traveling full-time for around 10 years was an amazing experience for me. I have been able to visit beautiful places, meet new people, and take tons of pictures. I have also met many, many travel photographers – from National Geographic freelance photographers to YouTubers, travel print sellers, and more.

If you love taking great photos while visiting new places, becoming a travel photographer could be a great way to make money.

Best Ways To Make Money as a Travel Photographer

Below are the best ways to make money as a travel photographer.

Recommended reading: 25 Best Travel Jobs To Make Money Traveling The World

1. Sell stock photos

Selling stock photos is a great way to make money as a travel photographer. You can upload your best travel pictures to popular stock photo websites.

These sites let people buy and use your photos for their projects. When someone buys your photo, you get paid a fee.

Some popular stock photo sites are Shutterstock, Adobe Stock, iStock, Depositphotos, and Getty Images.

Most of the pictures within this blog post are stock photos, and I use stock photos all the time, as do other businesses. They are very helpful!

Recommended reading: 18 Ways To Get Paid To Take Pictures

2. Elopement photographer

Becoming an elopement photographer can be a fun way to make money with travel photography. Elopements are small, intimate weddings that usually happen in beautiful locations like on the beach, in the mountains, and more.

As an elopement photographer, you’ll capture special moments for couples in beautiful places.

To get started, build a portfolio that showcases your landscape and portrait photography skills. Couples want to see your ability to capture both the natural beauty of a location and the emotions of the day. You may also want to research popular elopement destinations and familiarize yourself with these places so you can recommend ideal spots for couples.

Pricing many times should cover your travel expenses and services, so make sure to think about the location when setting your rates.

I follow a few travel wedding photographers online and I’m always amazed by how beautiful their pictures are!

Recommended reading: How I Make $20,000 A Month As A Family, Maternity, and Newborn Photographer

3. Host photography workshops

Photography workshops can be a great way to make money as a travel photographer. You can share your skills and knowledge with others who want to learn more about taking better pictures.

I know several people who have taken in-person photography workshops, and I have personally taken an online one. So, I know how helpful they are!

Photography workshops that you can teach may include:

• Camera basics: Teach participants how to use their camera’s settings. Many people have cameras that they do not use to the fullest (there are so many buttons on cameras these days after all!).
• Lighting: Explain how to work with natural light, use reflectors, or set up artificial lighting to improve pictures.
• Portrait photography: Teach how to pose subjects and work with natural backgrounds to capture stunning portraits, whether in a studio or outdoor setting.
• Travel photography: Focus on capturing landscapes, cityscapes, and cultural elements during travel. Talk about how to tell a story with your photos.
• Night and low-light photography: Teach how to shoot in challenging lighting conditions, like at night, during concerts, or in dim indoor settings.
• Building a photography portfolio: Show participants how to curate their best work, create a cohesive portfolio, and market themselves for potential clients or opportunities.
• Editing travel pictures for social media: Teach participants how to edit their travel photos for platforms like Instagram or blogs.

I recommend thinking about what you are good at and what you think your audience would be interested in learning about. By tailoring these topics to the interests of your audience, you can create a workshop that’s helpful and sells well.

4. Start a travel blog

Starting a blog is something I know well because I’ve been blogging for over 10 years. When I first started, I had no idea it would turn into such an amazing journey, allowing me to travel the world and share my experiences. Blogging has given me the opportunity to connect with people who share similar interests, as well as make money doing something that I enjoy.

Starting a travel blog can be great if you want to learn how to make money as a travel photographer. You can share your photos and stories with people who love to explore new places.

To become a travel blogger, pick a blog name that’s easy to remember and shows what your blog is about. Use a platform like self-hosted WordPress to set up your blog, and focus on creating good content by sharing your best travel photos and blog posts (try to post at least once a week so your audience stays interested).

Once you get more visitors to your blog, you can make money in different ways. You can use affiliate marketing (such as by linking to your travel gear on Amazon), write sponsored posts, or sell your photography services and prints. Travel companies and tourism boards might also want to work with you if your blog has great photos and content that fits their needs.

Recommended reading: How To Start a Travel Blog and Make Money

5. Sell prints online

Selling prints online can be a great way to make money from your travel photos. Many people love decorating their homes and offices with beautiful travel images.

If you want to learn how to become a travel photographer by selling travel prints, you can start by creating an online store to showcase and sell your best travel prints. Platforms like Shopify or Etsy make it easy to set up a shop quickly.

I have many friends who sell prints from their travels. They specialize in animal photos, landscape photos, urban cities, and more. I actually just recently bought a print from one of them to put on my living room wall.

Pricing is important and you can look at what other photographers charge for similar prints to get an idea of what you should charge.

Don’t forget about shipping. Make sure to factor in packaging and mailing costs when setting your prices. You want to protect your prints during shipping.

6. Work with brands or tourism boards

You can make money as a travel photographer by collaborating with brands and tourism boards. These groups tend to need great photos to show off their products or places so that they can get more customers/visitors.

I have worked with many brands and travel boards/companies over the years, and I think it can be a great way to make money with travel photography. One of my very first side hustle gigs that I got through this blog (the one you’re reading right now) was because I reached out to a resort in the Caribbean and pitched them ways that I could improve their website. They paid me as well as gave me free resort stays (so that I could take pictures and become an expert on the property).

You can wait for them to reach out to you, or you can contact travel companies, hotels, and tourism offices yourself. You’ll want to show them your best work and tell them how you can help.

7. Start an Instagram

Instagram is a great way to share your travel photos and make money. You can start by creating an account and posting your best pictures.

You’ll want to post often to keep your followers interested – at least once a day, especially in the beginning, is usually what is recommended.

You can make money on Instagram by working with brands, and they might pay you to take photos of their products, or you could get paid to share a photo of a hotel or tour company.

As your account grows, you can sell your own products too. This could be things like photo prints or editing presets.

While I do not make a large income from my Instagram account (it’s not my main business), I have made thousands of dollars from my income over the years. It is a fun way to make an income and it pushes you to take better pictures.

8. Create and sell Lightroom presets

Making Lightroom presets can be a fun way to earn money as a travel photographer. Presets are like filters that make editing photos easier and faster.

I have personally bought Lightroom presets from travel photographers, and I like how easy they are to use on my personal travel photos.

People buy presets because they save time and help create a consistent, professional look for their photos. Presets allow people like you and me to apply popular aesthetic styles with just one click, making it easy to stay on trend without needing advanced editing skills. They’re also a great learning tool for beginners who want to improve their photo editing techniques.

To create presets, start by editing a photo in Lightroom. Play with the settings until you’re happy with how it looks. Then, save these settings as a preset.

You’ll want to share photos on Instagram and other social media sites using your presets. As your photos become popular, your followers will most likely ask you about your presets – I see this being asked all the time!

Once you’ve made a few presets, it’s time to sell them. You can sell them on your own website or on online marketplaces for photographers.

I recommend that you show before and after photos so buyers can see what your presets do. This helps them decide if they want to buy.

9. Sell your photos to magazines or travel publications

A popular way to find travel photography jobs is to sell your photos to magazines or travel publications. This could be small travel websites or even something as large as National Geographic.

Magazines and travel publications are always on the lookout for great photos.

You can start by researching different magazines and publications and look for ones that match your photography style and travel locations.

Take time to study their guidelines as each magazine has specific rules for photo submissions. You’ll want to follow these rules carefully to increase your chances of getting accepted.

When you’re ready, reach out to the photo editors. Send them a brief email with a few sample images. Keep it short and sweet.

If they like your work, they might ask for more photos. They could even give you assignments to shoot specific places or events.

Now, this can be a hard way to make money with travel photography, so remember that patience is key. It might take a while to hear back from editors, and don’t get discouraged if you face rejections at first (because you will most likely hear “no” in the beginning).

10. Start a YouTube channel

Starting a YouTube channel can be a great way to make money as a travel photographer. You can share your adventures and photography tips with viewers around the world.

I follow many, many travel YouTubers – sailors, RVers, adventurers, those who are trying to visit every country in the world, and more.

Travel YouTubers are fun to watch because they take you on exciting trips to beautiful places. They show you destinations you might not have seen before and share their own stories, tips, and experiences.

Recommended reading: How Much Do YouTubers Make?

Frequently Asked Questions

Below are answers to common questions about how to make money as a travel photographer.

Can I make money from travel photography?

Yes, you can make money from travel photography. There are many ways to earn income by taking pictures during your travels. You can sell your photos to stock websites, work with brands, sell prints, or start a travel blog.

How hard is it to get into travel photography?

Getting into travel photography takes work, but it’s not impossible. You need to practice your skills and build a strong portfolio. It’s also important to network and market yourself. With time and effort, you can break into this field.

How to make money as an adventure photographer?

Adventure photography is a fun niche. You can sell your action shots to outdoor brands or magazines. You can also sell prints, start an adventure blog, and work with tourism boards.

How much do travel photographers make a year?

Travel photographers make a varying amount of money, and this is because travel jobs are so different. Some photographers make around $40,000 per year. I know an elopement photographer who makes over $200,000 a year. Others earn much more or less.

What steps should I take to start a career in travel photography?

If you want to start a career in travel photography, I recommend that you improve your photography skills such as by taking a photography course and learning how to correctly use a camera and all of its features. Also, building a strong portfolio of your best work, such as by creating a website to showcase your photos, is a good idea.

What skills should I learn to succeed in making money as a travel photographer?

Skills that you should learn so that you can make money as a travel photographer include learning to use your camera well (such as by studying up on composition and lighting) as well as practicing editing photos.

Is it possible to make a living just by taking photos while traveling?

Yes, it’s possible to make a living as a travel photographer. But it usually takes time to build up to a full-time income. Many travel photographers combine different income streams and they might sell photos, lead tours, and write about their travels.

How To Make Money as a Travel Photographer – Summary

I hope you enjoyed this article on the ways to make money while traveling with photography.

If you love taking photos and traveling to new places, becoming a travel photographer might be the perfect job for you.

For over 10 years, I traveled full-time and met many successful photographers who made money by capturing beautiful moments on their trips, and they were able to pursue their passions doing this.

Whether it’s selling photos online, taking pictures at elopements, or teaching others how to improve their photography, there are many ways to earn money while traveling as a professional photographer.

Are you interested in learning how to make money as a travel photographer?

Recommended reading:

Do you want to learn how to turn your passion for travel into a six-figure business?

Travel blogging is an exciting and flexible way to earn money while exploring the world. You get to share your experiences, inspire others, and create a business that fits your lifestyle. But how do you go from just writing about your trips to actually making $100,000+ per year?

Today, I’m excited to share the story of Jessie Festa, a successful travel blogger who started her blog, Jessie on a Journey, with the goal of helping travelers. Jessie went from earning nothing to building a six-figure travel blogging business.

In this interview, I ask Jessie questions about how to start a travel blogging business, like:

• How much money can a travel blogger realistically earn, and what are the main income streams?
• Is there still room for new travel bloggers to succeed in such a competitive niche?
• Do you need to travel frequently to maintain a successful travel blog, or can you blog about travel without being on the road constantly?
• What tools and equipment are important for running a successful travel blog? Do beginners need to invest a lot to get started?

Plus more!

If you’ve ever wondered how much money travel bloggers really make, how they get paid to travel, or how to start your own travel blog, this interview with Jessie is for you. She’ll break down her journey and share tips on everything from affiliate marketing to working with brands and tourism boards.

And, if you’re ready to turn your love for travel into a thriving business, Travel Blog Prosperity is the perfect resource for you. Created by Jessie, this membership offers 100+ courses and workshops, and a supportive community to help you grow your blog into a profitable venture. Whether you’re a beginner or looking to scale, Travel Blog Prosperity provides the tools and strategies to make it happen.

Technically, the doors are closed, but if you use my affiliate link, you can join right now. You can also use coupon code “MAKINGSENSE9” to get your first month for just $9. After that, it’s $49 per month to stay a member, and you can cancel at any time – even before your trial month is over.

Please click here to learn more about Travel Blog Prosperity.

Let’s dive into how Jessie makes $100,000+ each year as a travel blogger, and how you can get started too.

How I Make Money With A Travel Blog Business

Recommended reading: How To Start a Travel Blog and Make Money

1) Tell me your story. Who are you, and what inspired you to start your travel blog?

Hi, my name is Jessie Festa, a travel blogger, photographer, and blog coach from New York. 

I started my first travel blog, Jessie on a Journey, in 2011. At the time, there weren’t many resources online for solo travelers, and after going through the challenging process of planning a 3-month solo backpacking trip through Europe, I wanted to help others more easily plan their own solo trips.

Additionally, I wanted to create a business that would allow me to continue traveling. 

I graduated with my BA/MA in Communication during a recession, so jobs were scarce. While it was a scary and uncertain time, it also gave me the space to pursue travel blogging and see where it could lead me. 

Within about a year I was able to begin earning a steady income from it, and today it’s my full-time job. Along with Jessie on a Journey, I own the websites Epicure & Culture (sustainable tourism and culture blog) and NYC Photo Journeys (my photo experience site that gets most of its booking through the blog).

2. How much money do you make as a travel blogger?

I’m proud to say I’ve been able to create a 6-figure business for myself through blogging—which I attribute mainly to treating it like a business, which I share more about below in question #5.

I also try to diversify my traffic and revenue streams as much as possible to help protect my business. 

Additionally, I monitor what is working—and what isn’t—so I can adjust my strategies accordingly. 

Finally, I automate and streamline as much as possible, such as by creating sales funnels to sell my digital products.

3. Why did you decide to become a travel blogger?

Ultimately, it was my love of travel. I was determined to find—or create—a job that would allow me to earn a living from anywhere so that I could keep exploring the world.

Funny enough, I didn’t really know what blogging was before I started mine. Again, this was 2011, and blogging as a career wasn’t common yet. I’d always assumed a blog was just an online journal.

But, I saw other travelers—normal people who weren’t celebrities—doing it and actually making money writing about their travels on their websites. I told myself that if they could do it, so could I. So I did!

4. What do you enjoy most about running a travel blog?

The ability to be my own boss, get paid to be creative, and travel the world. 

Running a travel blog means getting to create my own schedule based on goals I’m passionate about and projects I’m excited about. Additionally, I can work from anywhere in the world—or choose to take time off, because I’m the one approving vacation time. 😉

With travel specifically, you can choose to monetize your trips, such as by writing blog posts that contain ads and affiliate links or working with sponsors.  

Don’t get me wrong, running any type of business, including a blog, is hard work; but, there are a lot of perks too. 

5. What are some of your favorite places that you’ve traveled to thanks to your travel blog?

My favorite place is usually wherever I’ve just been! 🙂 Recently, I visited  Kyrgyzstan and Tanzania—both of which were absolutely incredible.

Next week I’ll be heading to Nova Scotia for a partnership, which I’m very excited about.

6. How much money can a travel blogger realistically earn, and what are the main income streams?

I know travel bloggers earning nothing and travel bloggers earning multiple six figures, so it really depends. 

In my opinion, one of the biggest mistakes bloggers make is thinking that writing in itself will eventually lead to income. 

Yes, your content can—and should—be profitable; but, to really earn a living blogging you need a profit plan. It’s essential to implement revenue streams, set goals, track success, and tweak your strategy as needed.

Building on this, some of the main income streams for travel bloggers include:

• Affiliate marketing
• Running ads (for instance, I’m a Mediavine publisher)
• Launching products and services
• Working with brands and tourism boards on paid campaigns and press trips
• Freelance writing and creating content for brands (whether through UGC collaborations or being a ghost writer/creator for their channels—the latter of which I’ve found pays more)

7. What tools and equipment are essential for running a successful travel blog? Do beginners need to invest a lot to get started?

In the beginning, I’d recommend investing in good hosting with security features and consistent uptime, a lightweight theme with support, and a premium keyword research tool so that you can optimize your website for Search Engine Optimization (SEO).

As you grow, you may invest in other tools, as well. It just depends on your strategy. 

For instance, I personally pay for Later to schedule my Instagram posts and plan my feed; however, I also know many bloggers who use Instagram’s native scheduler or publish in real-time for free.

Also, many essential tools are free to start. For instance, you’ll definitely want an email marketing platform, like Mailerlite or ConvertKit, which typically offer free plans to get started.

8. What does your typical work schedule look like as a travel blogger? How many hours a week do you dedicate to maintaining your blog?

I like to break up my month into four weekly “sprints”. These include:

• Getting the content and event schedule for my  Travel Blog Prosperity membership (one of my main products) ready for the following month
• Creating content and doing outreach to land collaborations and sponsorships
• Creating and scheduling any content necessary for my next upcoming growth project
  • I choose one “growth project” per month that is meant to help me grow my traffic and/or income—such as launching a new digital product, co-hosting a webinar with an affiliate, taking part in a bundle or summit, or implementing a new traffic strategy
• Overflow week

Additionally, one of my products is my NYC photo tours and shoots, which I launched after having so many readers asking me to show them around New York. This means there are days when I’m in person with these clients.

When I’m working on the above, my day looks like a pretty typical workday, though I can take a day off if I need, move things around, and work from anywhere.

As a travel blogger I also travel a lot, so some weeks I’m on the road. For instance, I just got back from spending two weeks traveling around Tanzania.

While traveling, I’m not really on my laptop; however, I am taking notes, photos, and video clips to use in future travel content I’ll create once I’m back home.

9. Is there still room for new travel bloggers to succeed in such a competitive niche?

Absolutely, though I’d niche down more than just “travel”. Really aim to build a business that helps a specific audience and in a specific way.

Once you know who you help and how, it’ll be much easier to choose what topics to cover, which affiliates and brands to work with, and which products and services to create—as they will all be an extension of your mission.

10. How has your approach to SEO evolved as Google’s algorithms have changed over the years?

I’m fortunate that I’ve always been focused on growing and nurturing an email list, as I think this is more important than ever. This way, you can turn one-time readers into dedicated community members and capture that traffic on a list you own.

Additionally, I recommend diversifying your traffic sources as well as thinking about your blog as a business (vs simply writing over-optimized posts to try to rank).

11. How do you pitch brands or tourism boards for paid partnerships or press trips? Any tips for beginners?

Don’t overthink pitching. Go into as if you’re having a conversation and sharing an idea for a mutually beneficial partnership (vs asking the brand to give you something).

Before you do this, try to pinpoint what you bring to the table. Maybe it’s influence, a specific audience, a creative content creation style, or something else.

You can watch a recent YouTube video I shared for an actual pitch template that I go over step-by-step below:

12. Can you outline the steps someone should take to start a travel blog and turn it into a profitable business?

I’d recommend new bloggers first pinpoint their mission (ie who you help and how). 

Once you’ve defined this, break your mission up into 2-3 main topics—often called “content pillars” —that you’ll create content around. This will help you keep your content cohesive and build topical authority. You might even go hard on one content pillar to start to grow quicker.

From there, create content that fits within your content pillars. Ideally, you’ll first create your foundational posts—those posts that readers will expect to be on your blog—and then you’ll do keyword research to find low-competition keywords (ie search queries) you can create content around and rank for. Below is a helpful video I made:

While optimizing your website and content for SEO is important, I recommend implementing a few other traffic strategies—like Pinterest, Facebook, and Flipboard—and building an email list to capture your traffic and turn one-time visitors into repeat readers.

Your email list can help you grow both your traffic and income, as you can share your free content (like blog posts and YouTube videos) with subscribers as well as paid products and affiliate links (with disclosure).

Which brings me to an important piece of the strategy: monetization.

As mentioned above, it’s important to implement and grow revenue streams. Then, you can use your content to grow your traffic to grow your income.

For instance, you can monetize content directly through affiliate links and ads. Or, if you have your own product, you can create content that would attract your ideal buyers and get that product in front of them.

13. Do you need to travel frequently to maintain a successful travel blog, or can you blog about travel without being on the road constantly?

It depends on your specific niche. For instance, if you run a blog about Paris travel and you live in Paris, you won’t need to travel at all. 

However, if you cover many destinations you’ll want to make sure you’re either traveling regularly or you contract or hire writers who can help create content.

14. What are some common mistakes new travel bloggers make, and how can they avoid them?

The most common mistake new bloggers make is not thinking about their blog as a business. 

Many bloggers simply think they’ll optimize their content for keywords, grow their traffic, and monetize with ads and affiliate links.

To really build something sustainable and long-lasting, I recommend thinking about your blog as an actual business—including having your own products/services—and your content as a tool for growing the business.

15. What are the challenges of running a travel blog, and how do you overcome them?

One of the biggest challenges for travel bloggers is keeping up with changing algorithms. 

For instance, in the last year, we’ve seen a number of big Google algorithm updates that have completely shifted what shows up in Google search results. 

While some blogs grew from this, others lost some—or even all—of their traffic. Also, some who lost traffic in the first update bounced back in the third update.

And it’s not just Google. Pinterest, Instagram, Facebook, and other social media platforms regularly change the way their algorithms work.

Because of this, it’s important to:

• Keep up with changes and be adaptable
• Diversify your traffic and revenue streams
• Have an email list, which you own (vs your social media followers, which you don’t)

16. Can you tell me about Travel Blog Prosperity? How many members do you have? How can it help travel bloggers? Is this for new bloggers?

Travel Blog Prosperity is an online membership dedicated to helping travel and lifestyle bloggers grow their traffic and income through a mix of education, collaboration, and community support. 

Once you login, you’ll have immediate access to 100+ courses and workshops. This includes the Core Curriculum, which takes you from setup to salary and teaches you how to get setup for traffic and income success.

From there, you can use the included Blogging Strategy Roadmap to bring everything together and create a business plan for yourself. 

To help you build this out, there are additional workshops and trainings that teach strategies related to branding your blog, growing your traffic, increasing your email subscribers, launching and marketing products and services, growing your affiliate income, working with brands and tourism boards, freelance writing, seeing success on social media, scaling with ads, creating workflows, improving productivity and mindset, and more. 

Plus, there is at least one new live workshop taught every single month—replay included.

Other perks include a 15-minute onboarding call to help you create an action plan, monthly live coaching calls and bonus events with guest experts, weekly paid opportunities sent to your inbox, over $2k worth of included bonuses, and more.

We currently have over 200 members. It’s a really supportive and nurturing community that would love to welcome you!

Bonus: As a Making Sense of Cents reader, I’ve got a special coupon code for you to try Travel Blog Prosperity out for just $9 for your first month. 

➡️ Click here and use code “MAKINGSENSE9” at checkout to snag the deal.

Just note that the coupon is valid for new members only. After your trial month is over it’s $49/month to stay a member and you can cancel at any time—even before your discounted month is over!

You can click here to learn more about Travel Blog Prosperity.

Are you interested in starting a travel blog?

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Do you want to learn how to get paid to shop? It’s possible! Many companies and apps now give you ways to get paid for shopping that you might already do.

You can make extra cash by grocery shopping, buying clothes, or even just browsing stores. These opportunities range from being a personal shopper to taking surveys about products you buy. Some options let you shop for yourself, while others involve shopping for other people. It’s a fun way to earn money doing something you enjoy.

Over the years, I’ve found that there are so many ways to make money while shopping, and it’s been a great side hustle for me. From getting paid to shop for others to earning cash back on my own purchases, it’s an easy and enjoyable way to bring in extra income.

How To Get Paid To Shop

Below are the best ways to get paid to shop.

1. Personal shopper

Personal shoppers help people buy things. They pick out clothes, gifts, and other items for clients, so this can be a fun way to get paid for shopping.

To become a personal shopper, you need good taste and people skills. You should enjoy fashion and keeping up with trends.

Many personal shoppers work in person in retail stores, but you can also get paid to shop online for others. They help customers find outfits and accessories. Some work for wealthy clients, buying everything from groceries to designer clothes.

You can start by getting a job at a department store and looking for positions in personal shopping or styling. Another option is to work for yourself and you can find clients through word-of-mouth or online platforms.

When I was younger, I had a friend who was a personal shopper for a family. My friend mainly did their grocery shopping and ran errands, but would occasionally buy gifts for when the family was attending a birthday party or a wedding.

2. BestMark

I’ve done a lot of mystery shopping over the years, and it’s been a fun way to earn extra money while doing something I already enjoy. Whether it’s evaluating a store’s customer service, trying out new products, or going to a restaurant, it’s pretty easy work.

BestMark is a top mystery shopping company that’s been around since 1986.

As a BestMark shopper, you’ll visit stores, restaurants, and other businesses. You’ll act like a regular customer and evaluate your experience, and this might include checking product quality, service speed, and staff friendliness.

After your visit, you’ll fill out a detailed report online. BestMark gives you a list to help you understand what to look for during your shop.

The pay for BestMark shops varies, but you can tend to earn between $10 and $20 per task. For most assignments, you will get your meal or whatever you buy reimbursed. They usually give you a limit on what you can spend or they specifically tell you what to buy.

Recommended reading: 9 Best Mystery Shopping Companies To Work For

3. Swagbucks

Swagbucks is a popular website that pays you to shop online, and it’s free to join and easy to use.

I’ve been using Swagbucks for almost 10 years now, and I think it’s pretty easy to earn points.

To get paid to shop with Swagbucks, there are two main ways to earn points:

• Earn cash back when shopping online. For example, right now you can get up to 8% cash back when shopping at Macy’s, up to 4% when shopping on Amazon, up to 10% when shopping at Best Buy, and more.
• Earn points (SB) by submitting your shopping receipts. You can submit any receipt that you have from the last 14 days – both in-store and online receipts. You can then earn points. For example, you can get 50 points for any loaf of bread that you buy, 50 points for any bananas, 900 points for diapers, and more.

When you’ve collected enough SB, you can trade them for gift cards. You can pick from lots of popular stores. If you prefer cash, you can get money sent to your PayPal account instead.

I’ve redeemed over 100 gift cards from Swagbucks over the years, and I love how easy this rewards site is to use.

If you join Swagbucks through my referral link, you will receive a $10 bonus.

4. Rakuten

Rakuten is a popular way to earn cash back when you shop online. It’s free to use and super easy to get started.

I have used Rakuten for years and it’s an easy way to get cash back for the online shopping that you already do. In fact, I just used it on a hotel booking, and I received 2% back, which adds up quickly for a hotel!

You just sign up for an account on Rakuten’s website or app. Then when you want to buy something, go through Rakuten first. They’ll send you to the store’s site to shop like normal.

After you make a purchase, Rakuten adds cash back to your account. The amount varies by store, but it’s often 1% to 10% of what you spend. Some stores even pay you 20% or more during special sales.

You can get paid by check or PayPal. Rakuten sends out payments every 3 months and you need at least $5 in your account to get paid.

So, why does Rakuten give you this cash back? Rakuten makes money by getting a commission from stores when you buy stuff. They share part of that commission with you as cash back.

Please click here to sign up for Rakuten. Plus, you can get a $30 bonus when you spend $30 if you join right now (at the time of this writing; please double-check the current offer).

5. Stitch Fix stylist

Want to get paid to shop for others? Becoming a Stitch Fix stylist might be perfect for you. This job lets you work from home and help people look their best.

Stitch Fix hires stylists for women’s, men’s, and kids’ styling. They even train you, so you can start with no experience.

As a Stitch Fix stylist, you’ll pick out clothes for customers based on their likes and needs. You’ll use a computer to see what items are available and choose the best ones for each person.

6. Instacart shopper

Becoming an Instacart shopper is a way to make money grocery shopping on your own schedule.

As an Instacart shopper, you’ll pick up and deliver groceries to customers. Instacart has full-service shoppers, where you shop and deliver groceries, as well as in-store shoppers, where you only shop in-store but don’t deliver (someone else picks up the items and delivers).

To start, you need to be at least 18 years old. You’ll also need a smartphone to use the Instacart app as this app tells you what to buy at the grocery store and where to deliver it.

Instacart gives you a payment card to use at stores. You’ll get this card about a week after signing up. You use it to pay for the groceries you’re buying for customers.

Recommended reading: Instacart Shopper Review: How much do Instacart Shoppers earn?

7. Shopkick

Shopkick is a free app that lets you earn rewards for shopping. You can get points called “kicks” for different activities. These include scanning products in stores and uploading receipts.

You don’t even need to buy anything to earn kicks. Just walking into certain stores can give you points. The app works with many popular retailers like Target and CVS.

As you collect kicks, you can trade them for gift cards.

To start, just download the Shopkick app on your phone. Then link your credit or debit cards to your account, because this lets you earn kicks automatically when you shop at partner stores.

8. Ibotta

Ibotta is a free app where you can earn cash back on your everyday purchases. It works for both online and in-store shopping at many popular retailers.

To get started, download the Ibotta app on your phone. Before you shop, browse the app for “offers” at your favorite stores. You’ll see cash back deals on specific items or entire purchases.

When shopping in stores, buy the items with offers (of course, make sure these are items that you actually want to buy because the item is not free, it is simply more like getting a discount). Then, take a picture of your receipt with the app when you are done. Ibotta will match your purchases to the offers and add cash back to your account.

For online shopping, start your purchase through the Ibotta app or website. Shop as usual, and you’ll automatically earn cash back on qualifying items.

Ibotta works with many big stores like Walmart, Target, and Kroger.

Once you reach $20 in your account, you can cash out via PayPal or choose a gift card. It’s a simple way to make your shopping more rewarding.

This app is available for both Android and iOS (iPhone).

You can sign up for Ibotta here.

9. Ath Power Consulting

Ath Power Consulting is a company where you can get paid to do mystery shopping. They have a huge network of over 600,000 shoppers across North America.

Ath Power does more than 10,000 mystery shops each month. They work with many well-known brands and companies around the world.

Ath Power mystery shoppers shop in person for companies, and then share their thoughts about the products and services they try. Companies can then use this information to improve what they sell to customers.

10. IntelliShop

IntelliShop is a company that hires for mystery shopping jobs. You can sign up to become a secret shopper and get paid to visit stores.

Most tasks pay between $5 and $20. They usually take less than 15 minutes in the store, and then after your visit, you’ll need to fill out a report.

IntelliShop has jobs in stores, online, and over the phone.

As a mystery shopper for any of the mystery shopping companies on this list, please remember to keep any receipts or business cards from your visit. You’ll need these to prove you completed the task and get paid.

Recommended reading: How To Become A Mystery Shopper

11. Care.com

Care.com is a site where you can earn money by helping others with tasks like grocery shopping. You can sign up as a helper on their platform to find local gigs.

The site connects you with people who need assistance, such as parents and seniors. You might help with grocery shopping, cooking, or other errands.

As a helper on Care.com, you can set your own rates. Some helpers charge between $15 and $25 per hour. The amount that you decide you want to get paid may vary based on your experience and the tasks you do.

You may be able to find enough gigs to make this a full-time career, or you can also do this part-time in your spare time.

12. Capital One Shopping

Capital One Shopping is a free tool that can help you save money when you shop online. It’s a browser extension and mobile app that works in the background while you browse.

When you’re ready to check out, Capital One Shopping searches for coupon codes automatically and it tries to apply them to your order to get you the best deal.

The tool also compares prices across different websites. This can help you find the lowest price for items you want to buy.

You can earn rewards called Shopping Credits when you make purchases through Capital One Shopping. These credits can be redeemed for gift cards to popular stores.

While you won’t get paid directly to shop, you can save money and earn rewards. This can add up to significant savings over time and even free gift cards.

I recently received a $71 gift card for simply using the Capital One Shopping browser extension, which was super easy to get.

You can learn more at Capital One Shopping Review: Is It Worth It?

13. Fetch Rewards

Fetch Rewards is a free app that lets you earn points for shopping. You can get points by scanning any receipt or shopping online through the app.

I use Fetch Rewards for nearly all of my grocery shopping receipts. What I like about Fetch is that you don’t need to clip coupons or look for special offers. You just buy products and scan your receipts when you are done. It takes less than one minute to scan your receipt and earn points, so it is very easy.

Fetch gives you points for every receipt you upload. You can earn extra points by buying specific brands or products. The app has special offers where you can earn extra points, such as for buying a specific brand of cheese.

You can turn your points into gift cards from many stores and restaurants. Some options include Amazon, Target, and Starbucks.

You can sign up for Fetch Rewards here. 

14. Uber Eats

With Uber Eats, you can make money by delivering food.

To get started, you’ll need to create an account and fill out some forms. Once approved, you can begin accepting delivery requests through the Uber app.

Uber Eats drivers can earn around $15 to $26 per hour on average. Your earnings can vary based on factors like your location, how busy it is, and the amount that you earn in tips.

You will want a reliable vehicle and a valid driver’s license, of course, for this side gig.

Recommended reading: 14 Ways To Make Money Driving

15. DoorDash

DoorDash is another way to get paid for delivering food.

DoorDash pays Dashers weekly through direct deposit. If you need money faster, DoorDash offers a Fast Pay option. This lets you cash out your earnings right away for a small fee.

Remember, you’re responsible for your own expenses like gas and car maintenance. It’s a good idea to track these costs to see how much you’re really earning.

16. Taskrabbit

Taskrabbit is an app that lets you make money by doing odd jobs for people in your area. You can pick tasks that fit your skills and schedule.

Some popular jobs on Taskrabbit include cleaning houses, assembling furniture, and running errands (such as shopping for others).

Taskrabbit gives you the flexibility to choose when and how much you work, as well as the type of work that you want to do.

17. Walmart personal shopper

You can get paid to shop as a Walmart personal shopper. This job lets you pick out items for customers who order online.

You’ve probably seen Walmart personal shoppers when you’ve been in Walmart. They work for Walmart and typically have a uniform and a very large basket where they collect items for different orders.

Walmart personal shoppers earn about $15 per hour on average.

Most personal shoppers work full-time or nearly full-time, between 32 to 40 hours a week.

As a personal shopper, you’ll walk around the store and find items customers want. You’ll need to be quick and careful to pick the right products.

Frequently Asked Questions

Getting paid to shop can be a fun way to earn extra money. There are different methods like using apps, shopping for others, and being a mystery shopper. Here are answers to common questions about how to get paid to shop.

How to get paid to go shopping?

You can get paid to shop by using cash back apps, becoming a personal shopper, or doing mystery shopping. Cash back apps give you money back on purchases. Personal shoppers buy things for busy people. Mystery shoppers check stores and fill out shopping assignments on their customer experience.

What are the top apps that pay you for shopping?

Some popular apps that pay you for shopping are:

• Rakuten: Gives cash back on online purchases
• Ibotta: Pays rebates on groceries and other items
• Shopkick: Rewards you for scanning items in stores
• Fetch Rewards: Gives points for uploading grocery receipts

These apps are free to use and can help you save money on things you already buy.

How can I earn cash by doing grocery shopping for others?

You can earn cash by grocery shopping for others through apps like Instacart or Shipt. Sign up as a shopper, get orders from customers, and deliver their groceries. You’ll get paid for each order you complete.

How much money do people usually make by delivering groceries?

The amount of money you can make by delivering groceries varies. Most shoppers make between $10 and $25 per hour, and your pay depends on factors like the number of orders you complete, the size of the orders, tips from customers, and time of day and demand.

Is being a secret shopper a good side hustle?

Secret shopping can be a good side hustle. It lets you earn money while shopping and dining out, but it’s not a full-time job. I have done a lot of mystery shopping assignments over the years.

What ways to get paid to shop on Amazon are there?

You can get paid to shop on Amazon in a few ways:

1. Use cash back sites like Rakuten when shopping on Amazon
2. Join Amazon’s Vine program to review products
3. Sell items on Amazon as a third-party seller
4. Sign up for the Amazon Associates Program to earn from product links

These methods can help you save money or earn extra cash while shopping on Amazon.

Best Ways To Get Paid To Shop – Summary

I hope you enjoyed my article on how to get paid to shop.

Getting paid to shop is a fun and easy way to make extra money while doing things you already like. I have been getting paid to shop for over 10 years now, and I have done almost everything on this list. While I’ve not earned a full-time income doing anything on this list, I have earned side income and plenty of free gift cards over the years.

You can use cash back apps or become a personal shopper to earn cash. You can make money buying groceries, clothes, or even taking surveys about your shopping habits.

Mystery shopping is another way to earn money by pretending to be a regular customer and reporting your feedback on your experience. Companies like BestMark and IntelliShop pay for this. Apps like Swagbucks and Fetch Rewards make it easy to earn by scanning receipts or shopping online.

Whether you want a side hustle or just want to save money, getting paid to shop is a fun way to make more money.

What is your favorite way to get paid to shop?

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