March 12, 2012

Budget Saving Apps

These tough economic times have everyone searching for the best prices and the greatest bargains - especially when it comes to gas prices and everyday items. But what if you can still buy some of the things you want and like, while also purchasing the necessities you still need? Companies are creating mobile applications that connect users with great bargains, deals, sales, and discounted products. Other mobile applications are also being created to find the cheapest gas prices in a specific location and the best price on consumer goods from clothing to groceries.



The first thing people typically cut out of their budget when the budget crunch hits is going out to eat. Whether you are stopping in for happy hour, a quick lunch, or dinner with the family, consumers find the cost of dining out to be relatively wasteful when watching their spending. Pirq is a free mobile app available on the iPhone and Android. Pirq was created to help customers get the best deals on dining out. You can open the application on your mobile device and click on the city in which you are located or simply click “current location.” Pirq will then find you and find deals closet to you, from pizza to fine dining and most deals range from 20-70% off on average. Once you find a deal that you like, click “commit” and scan the barcode with your camera. Priq gives your instant savings as soon as you show your server or the cashier.

The second thing consumers struggle with is gas prices. No matter what happens, you always need gas (unless you utilize public transportation). Unlike dining out, you can’t just stop purchasing gas. You still have to run errands, pick up the kids from soccer, and commute to work. GasBuddy is a free mobile app available on the iPhone and Android. It works very similarly to Pirq without the scanning. After downloading GasBuddy, you can enter your zip code, city or click “current location.” GasBuddy will list the lowest prices for gas closest to you. This is a consumer driven application – what do I mean by that? When you get to the gas station, if the prices are different than what was listed, take the time to update the information right from the app window. Why? Because other customers are relying on this application too.

Finally, there are so many apps that help you compare prices at different stores and even online, such as Amazon Price Checker, Google Shopper, and ShopSavvy. But what if you need the product right away? That’s where Goodzer comes in. Goodzer is available on the iPhone for free. If you are looking for a product that is typically hard to find or you don’t even know where to begin to start your search, you can search on Goodzer (or Goodzer.com). It will find the nearest location, including major retailers and smaller stores and boutiques. If you can afford to wait, you can still use Goodzer and it will tell you where you can order it.

There are so many incredible apps that help consumers get connected with the best deals and lowest prices near them. Whether you are on a budget or just shopping around for the best prices, there is an application that can suit your needs!

2 comments:

  1. Wow, it seems I will have to download some new Apps this evening :)

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  2. They're quite helpful! I personally love Pirq! You should check it out!

    ReplyDelete