Get coupons, score discounts, and stick to your budget with these easy apps
Data plans are expensive, and might be the first thing to go when you’re sorting out your budget; but if you find the right apps, it’s possible for your data plan to save you as much as it costs you. Here are a few of the top money-saving apps for iPhone and Android, to cut your costs and find better deals.
1. GasBuddy (Android, iOS)
If you drive an SUV or Suburban, ten or fifteen cents per gallon can make a big difference; but even if you don’t, it might be worth planning your next fill-up when you’re close to a cheap station. With a simple, at-a-glance interface, GasBuddy lets you check for the cheapest gas along your route. (Cost: free)
2. RedLaser (Android, iOS)
This app can be a huge help with the groceries if you have a big family or teenagers; it allows you to scan any barcode with your phone, and check prices at local stores. It can also identify products based on text or voice commands. It goes beyond food, to movies, electronics, and other items; but being able to trim down your grocery bill is the big benefit. (Cost: free)
3. ShopSavvy (Android, iOS)
RedLaser is definitely the app to use if you’re shopping at brick-and-mortar stores, but the benefit of ShopSavvy is that it compares scanned items to prices online as well as at local retailers. Bugs reported on Android devices are confirmed fixed on the new Samsung Galaxy S from T-Mobile, but iOS users may still experience problems. (Cost: free)
4. SkyScanner (Android, iOS)
The most nerve-wracking part of planning a family vacation can be ponying up for the plane ticket; but SkyScanner does what many online price-aggregators don’t—in addition to allowing flexible times and carriers, SkyScanner also helps you find the cheapest date to fly, which is often the most important factor in the cost. (Cost: free)
Julia Peterson is a writer for AndGeeks.com, a popular website that provides up-to-date news, detailed commentary, and unbiased reviews on cell phones and related topics. Julia resides in Galveston, Texas in a cozy little house in the country with her husband, young son, and their Labrador retriever, Darby.
