Unlocking Amazon’s Hidden Treasures: A Comprehensive Guide to Amazon Shopping
If you’ve ever indulged in retail therapy on Amazon, particularly during the highly anticipated Prime Big Deal Days sale in October, you’re not alone. As an Amazon Prime member, you’re likely acquainted with many of the membership’s benefits. However, there’s a wealth of Amazon shopping tips, tricks, and Prime perks that might have escaped your notice. In this article, we’ll delve deep into the Amazon shopping experience, from uncovering the best deals to understanding the recent Amazon Prime price adjustments.
Decoding Amazon Prime
What is Amazon Prime?
By 2021, Amazon Prime had amassed over 200 million subscribers worldwide. If you’re not already one of them, you might be wondering what makes this program so enticing. Amazon Prime is a multifaceted service offering an array of benefits, all bundled into a convenient monthly or annual subscription.
What’s the Cost of Amazon Prime?
Amazon Prime provides two subscription options. Opting for an annual membership will set you back $139 per year, plus applicable taxes. Alternatively, you can choose a monthly subscription at $14.99 per month, plus tax. Keep in mind that sticking with a monthly plan could lead to a higher annual expenditure compared to an annual subscription.
Is There an Amazon Prime Free Trial?
For those who haven’t yet taken the Amazon Prime plunge, there’s good news. Amazon offers a 30-day free trial, giving you a chance to experience the full range of Prime benefits without any financial commitment.
Unveiling Amazon Prime Benefits
While there are numerous Amazon Prime perks, here’s an overview of some of the most noteworthy advantages:
1. Lightning-Fast Shipping
One of the standout features of Amazon Prime is the free two-day shipping on eligible Amazon purchases, with no minimum spending requirement. In select areas, Prime members can also enjoy free one-day, overnight, and even same-day shipping on orders exceeding $35.
2. Amazon Prime Video
The streaming service, Amazon Prime Video, adds significant value to the membership. Amazon invests billions each year in providing Prime members with a vast library of content. Notable Amazon Original Series titles include “The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel,” “The Boys,” and “Modern Love.” In addition, Prime Video offers a diverse collection of movies and TV shows. If you prefer only the streaming content, you can opt for a Prime Video subscription at $8.99 per month, along with a 30-day free trial.
3. Whole Foods Perks
In certain regions, Amazon Prime members can enjoy free two-hour grocery pickup from Amazon Fresh. Delivery is also an option for a small fee. Additionally, Prime members receive a 10% discount on in-store sale prices (excluding alcohol) at Whole Foods, with special in-store deals marked with blue Prime member signs.
4. Amazon Key
Amazon Key is a unique benefit for Amazon Prime members. With this service, you can have your items delivered to your garage instead of your doorstep at no extra charge. Amazon Key can be integrated with a Ring app or a MyQ compatible garage door opener for added security.
5. Free Kindle Books
Amazon Prime membership pairs perfectly with Amazon’s Kindle e-reader. Prime Reading offers free access to over 3,000 books and magazines, functioning as a digital lending library. Prime members can also access First Reads, offering one free Kindle download each month from a selection of editors’ picks.
6. Amazon Music Prime
Amazon Prime members gain access to thousands of stations and playlists, encompassing a total of 2 million songs. If you desire a broader music selection, you can upgrade to Amazon Music Unlimited for $9.99 per month, including a 30-day free trial. Non-Prime members can also subscribe to Amazon Music Unlimited for $10.99 a month.
7. Prime Gaming
Prime Gaming, part of Amazon Prime, offers free games and in-game content to members. Additionally, Prime Gaming provides a free subscription to a channel of your choice on the Amazon-owned Twitch.tv, along with exclusive emoticons.
8. Amazon Prime Day and Prime Early Access
Amazon Prime Day, an exclusive two-day sales event, is a prime attraction for members, featuring compelling deals on a wide range of products, including Apple computers, Amazon Echo devices, Ring video doorbells, air fryers, and more. Prime Early Access offers members a 30-minute head start on limited-quantity Lightning Deals. In recent years, a fall sale named Prime Big Deal Days in October was introduced, providing exclusive savings to Prime members.
9. Amazon Photos
Amazon Prime membership offers unlimited, full-resolution photo storage via Amazon Photos. Video storage is also available, with up to 5 GB included in your Prime membership. Additional storage plans start at $1.99 per month for 100 GB. It’s important to note that if your Prime membership is canceled or not renewed, your total storage space for photos and videos is capped at 5 GB.
10. Amazon Household
Prime members can share specific Prime benefits, such as Prime Delivery and Prime Video, with up to two adults in their household through Amazon Household. This isn’t about sharing passwords clandestinely; it involves creating official, linked accounts for roommates, grandparents, and more. Teen and child accounts come with safeguards, requiring your approval for teen purchases and allowing you to manage a child’s access to digital content.
11. Prime Try Before You Buy
Formerly known as Prime Wardrobe, this feature allows Amazon Prime members to order select clothing, shoes, jewelry, and accessories for a trial run. You have up to seven days to decide on your purchases, and you only pay for what you keep. It’s like a fashion montage without the soundtrack.
12. Amazon Prime Rewards Visa Card
The Amazon Prime Rewards Visa Card is an enhanced version of the Amazon Rewards Visa Card. While both cards offer cash-back bonuses and have no annual fees, the Prime Rewards Visa Card offers more significant benefits to Amazon Prime members. This includes 5% cash back on Amazon and Whole Foods purchases, as well as other rewards like a $150 Amazon gift card upon approval.
Is Amazon Prime Worth It?
Whether Amazon Prime is worth the investment depends on your shopping habits. If you’re a frequent Amazon customer, the unlimited two-day shipping and access to Amazon Prime Day make it a compelling option. However, if you’re not a regular Amazon shopper or prefer Walmart, Walmart+ may be a more suitable alternative.
Great Amazon Deals to Explore
As of now, Amazon is offering enticing early Black Friday deals that you can shop. Here are some top picks:
Apple AirPods (2nd generation): $99 (23% off)
These earbuds offer high-quality sound and seamless pairing, making them ideal for iOS users.
With over 24 hours of listening time, they’re perfect for on-the-go music and movie enthusiasts.
iRobot Roomba s9+: $775 (22% off)
This smart robot vacuum boasts superior suction power, advanced cleaning features, and remote control via a smartphone.
Keurig K-Elite: $119 (37% off)
This coffee maker accommodates various cup sizes and has a large water reservoir for convenience.
Ninja AF101 air fryer (4 quart): $90 (31% off)
Highly recommended by experts, this air fryer is compact, efficient, and easy to use, making it a great choice for beginners.
Shark HyperAir hot air brush with concentrator and diffuser: $160 (30% off)
A versatile hair styling tool with multiple settings and heat damage protection.
Dewalt 20V Max cordless compact drill kit: $99 (45% off)
A powerful and highly rated cordless drill set, perfect for DIY projects.
Rockland Melbourne 20-inch expandable carry-on: $68 (52% off)
A lightweight and durable carry-on spinner with ample storage space, suitable for most major airlines.
As you explore these deals, remember that Amazon consistently offers compelling discounts and promotions, making it a great platform for bargain hunters.
In conclusion, Amazon shopping offers a world of benefits through its Prime membership, from lightning-fast shipping to a vast array of entertainment and exclusive deals. Whether you’re already a devoted Amazon shopper or considering joining the Prime club, understanding these perks can help you make the most of your online shopping experience. Happy shopping!