How I'm Planning to Save a Boatload on Amazon Prime Day

Like many people, my online shopping ballooned during the pandemic and I had to consciously pull back once life returned to what counts as normal. But that won't stop me from making the most of the upcoming Amazon Prime Day. I'm renovating my apartment this summer and I have a list of things I need. 

This year's Amazon Prime Day takes place on July 11 and 12, and I'm determined to maximize my savings. First step? I've re-subscribed to Amazon Prime so I can check out the early Prime Day deals. Here are five other ways I'm planning to save a boatload.

1. Make the most of extra credits

In keeping with tradition, Amazon is giving members a chance to earn some extra Prime Day spending money. Eligible Prime members can get a $15 credit by downloading the Amazon photo app before July 7 and uploading a photo. Note the word "eligible" -- if you're using a free trial Prime membership, you won't qualify for this offer. 

Another useful credit? If you buy a $50 eGift Card between July 3 and 10, you can get a $5 credit to spend during the bonanza. And from June 21 to July 10, Prime members can score a 20% discount on Amazon Fresh purchases if they spend more than $50.

2. Set up deal alerts

I have installed the Amazon app on my phone and set up deal alerts for the items I'm interested in buying. Be aware, it wasn't super intuitive. You need to first browse the items and then go to the Prime Day event page to set up the alerts. Even then, they don't all show up straight away. In theory, on the big day, I'll get push notifications for deals on those products. You can also get help from Alexa by putting items in your cart and asking for notifications.

The other big advantage to having a list and setting up alerts beforehand is that I've already done my research. I know what things should cost, which brands have the best reviews, and how much I'm willing to pay. If I see a bargain, I can jump right in. I also have a budget for the renovation work, and I know how much pressure my bank balance can take.

3. Use a rewards credit card

Amazon says it's offering Prime members a $200 instant gift card if they get approved for the Prime Visa between June 29 and July 26. In addition to the bonus, Prime Visa cardholders can get 5% cash back on their Amazon spending, along with other benefits. It's a no annual fee credit card that can help regular Amazon Prime members earn decent rewards.

READ MORE: Best rewards credit cards

If you have a non-Amazon rewards credit card or are trying to meet the spending requirements for a sign-up bonus, you can still make any Prime Day spending count. Work out which card makes the most sense rewards-wise and make sure it's added to your account before the sale starts.

4. Avoid mindless scrolling

Here's what I'm not going to do: Log on to Amazon during Prime Day sales and flick through the deals just in case there's something I want. I speak from experience when I say that's a surefire way to buy a bunch of things I don't need that wind up taking up space I don't have. I'm talking to you, Mr. Floating Beer Pong Table. 

5. Shop around

I get it. The clock is ticking down on an offer, and the site says the deal is already 55% claimed. Know that it's a sales tactic to push you into buying things without thinking. Take a breath, and spend a few seconds making sure you're getting a good price. Both Target and Walmart have July sales around the same time, and you may find you get a better deal with one of them.

Know that you have options

Sales can be a fantastic way to save money, particularly if you can get the timing right on big-ticket items. But it's also worth remembering that Amazon Prime Day will not be the only big sale this year. On top of which, you may also be able to save even more by buying items second-hand or borrowing a tool or appliance temporarily. Check out community sites too -- someone might be giving away the item you need.

Reminding yourself that this is not the only gig in town can take away some of the urgency to score a deal, and could ultimately save you more money than the Prime Day discounts.