How Digital Convenience Saves Us Time and Money

Today’s hyper-connected world grants much opportunity and access to different products and services. It can be very easy to waste time and money on these conveniences, but Brian and I have worked together to find ways to save rather than spend.

Sam’s Club Scan and Go

The Sam’s Club Scan and Go App keeps us moving through our busy days. This handy feature lets us bypass the checkout line! Have you ever stood in a Sam’s Club checkout line when it’s crazy busy? It’s an…experience; one that we are more than happy to skip.

The Sam’s Club App gives you access to your digital membership, past purchases, and more. To purchase your items, simply scan the barcodes through the app, process payment, and then show your digital receipt at the door. Easy-peasy! It has saved us over 30 minutes of waiting on more than a few occasions!

Grocery Store Websites & Digital Coupons

Grocery store websites are fantastic resources for reviewing weekly sales, coupons, and loyalty discounts. I was already in the habit of double-checking weekly ads to build my grocery list, but I became extra-vigilant as inflation reared its ugly head. Not only do I build a grocery list from weekly sales, I also ‘clip’ digital coupons and cross-check prices as I actively shop.

It doesn’t take much time for me, especially since I have created my own routine around price-checking. Even though prices continue to rise, Brian and I have been able to reduce our grocery expenses from $100/week to about $40/week.

GasBuddy

GasBuddy continues to help us find the cheapest gas on the road. This useful app is super easy to navigate on-the-go. It allows you to filter results based on location, fuel grade, and form of payment. Whether you’re pre-planning your route or looking for a quick fill-up, GasBuddy has you covered.

Unlimited Data Plans

Brian and I share a cell phone plan through Google Fi. This plan includes unlimited data, which we put to exhaustive use. Our plans have created a wealth of flexibility, practicality, and value.

Google Fi Unlimited Plus Plan: This plan costs $110 (plus taxes and fees) for the two of us.

• Free data, calls, and texts within the US, Canada, and Mexico
• Unlimited data and texts in the US and in more than 200 international countries
• Free calls from the US to more than 50 countries/territories; 20¢/min for international calls elsewhere
• Full-speed hotspot tethering
• 100 GB of Google One storage per member

We’ve used our data to efficiently navigate through traffic, download and listen to free audiobooks from our local library, and cross-check information and prices on-the-go.

If you’d like to switch over to a Google Fi Plan, you can receive a $20 credit after your first month by signing up through our referral page. Each referral helps us out, as we receive a $20 credit as well!

Comparative Analysis

The Internet is an enormous realm of information. For a research junkie like me, it opens multiple doors to all kinds of worlds. Whether I’m researching for our next big getaway, trying to track down the best price for building materials, or negotiating with eBay sellers, a quick Google search offers a plethora of guidance.

Using Google, I access a variety of different resources to analyze the options and features of products and services. This type of cross-comparison and research helps me make better decisions.

Here are some of the websites I use to explore and compare options, prices, and value.

Swagbucks

We use Swagbucks whenever we shop online through participating retailers. Swagbucks is a cash-back rewards program. ‘SB Points’ are awarded for every dollar spent at participating retailers. These points can then be redeemed for all sorts of gift cards.

Nextdoor

Nextdoor is a neighborhood-specific social networking platform. It is an easy way to connect with others in your community. Nextdoor allows neighbors to share information and ideas while forming real-world connections. It also features a buy-and-sell section, which is the main reason I use the platform. Brian and I have had great success with free curb alert finds and inexpensive furniture. Some of the free items we snagged include books, tools, and furniture!

Exclusive Access

As credit card holders, HICV vacation owners, and members of different loyalty programs, Brian and I have access to exclusive offers through online portals. Using our credentials, we can log into these portals and book exclusive rates and events, complimentary stays, and more.

Find out how we used our memberships to save over $5,000 traveling the west coast!

YouTube How-Tos

If it weren’t for YouTube, Brian and I would be spending a lot more money! It’s guided us through so many repairs throughout the years. While quality videos and how-tos require a little bit of sifting, the amount of education and value we have gained is worth the effort. From vehicle diagnostics and DIY bathroom renovation guides to soldering a refrigerator fuse replacement and more, YouTube has been one heck of a lifesaver.

Remote Work

Brian and I have worked remotely for years. It wasn’t until January 2020, however, that we negotiated full-time remote schedules to allow for flexible travel. Unfortunately, it was short-lived due to the pandemic! In any case, it has allowed us to take advantage of steep discounts since we travel off-season and mid-week. Additionally, our remote work saves on:

• Commuting costs (fuel, car maintenance, car insurance, and time)
• Impulse meal purchases (especially during stressful days!)
• Unnecessary in-office interruptions
• Clothing expenses
• Personal energy levels

Technology & Digital Convenience

Technology is a double-edged sword. It is an excellent tool for acquiring knowledge, but it is also extremely effective at spreading misinformation. It serves as a necessity, but is also a luxury. Balance is necessary to effectively benefit from technology and remain productive. Digital convenience can be a massive time and money waster, but with focused intention and creativity, it can be a very valuable resource.

How does digital convenience apply in your life?