Apps: A Lifestyle Choice

 

I don’t know why, but the warmer months make me think of shopping. Maybe it’s because I'm about to move to a new apartment, so I am spending money up the wazoo, but I don’t think I’m alone. This is why I’m going to tell you about my favorite lifestyle apps.

 

To make this simple, I’m going to break them up into two categories, coupon apps and shopping.

 

Coupon Apps

 

LivingSocial: One of the more famous apps for deals, this free app is a must have when looking for a cheap vacation and discounted entry to events. Search is by location. You can look through “today’s deals”, “escapes”, or “fun & events”. Worried about keeping track of your deals? Not to worry, they have a “my vouchers” section.

 

Groupon: Similar to Living Social, but they have more to offer. It’s not just about experiences, but products too! Browse through umpteen deals using “nearby,” what’s “featured”,  “goods,” “just for you,” “summer deals,” and “getaways.” It doesn’t end there. You can earn rewards by spending certain amounts of money at different locations. Also, you can earn $10 for every invite that purchases something. Just remember to read the fine print on each deal and realize that you don’t get your Groupon instantly.

 

RetailMeNot: Not a new app on the couponing block, but still great. You can now take the coupons with you on the go! Listen out for the cheerful “ka-ching” sound letting you know when they have coupons for you to look through. Both for online and in store purchases, this app is guaranteed to help if you’re shopping at the right places. Each coupon is rated by success, so you know when to not waste your time.

 

SnipSnap: New to my iPhone, this app is almost like a social network for coupons. Share what you have and search for those you don’t! Follow people that post the best coupons for your needs and organize the coupons you electronically save. It’s easy to use and fun too!

 

Shopping

 

Etsy: If you’re a lover of anything and everything handmade or someone who has something worth selling, this is the app for you. Look through what seems like an endless amount of products and items that were made with TLC. There are some incredible artists on this app and impressive craftsmanship.  It’s really hard to ignore, especially with the app being so visual.

FAB: This little gem is very addictive. You have officially been warned. Anything that you would want to buy that has a unique look or purpose can be found here. Under appreciated artists join together to make this app special. Swipe through furniture, jewelry, nick knacks, and more. Fab really is fabulous and organized to boot. You won’t be disappointed. Prices do vary.

 

eBay Now: It’s not surprising that this app took off so quickly with it’s mother eBay backing it up. This is the app to use if you need something last minute. Search through the items and products based on your needs and have it delivered to you by the end of the day. The delivery fee can be annoying, but if you’re caught in the rain without an umbrella, well, you get the picture.

 

Overstock: A veteran to the online and television shopping world, this app has everything that the site does on the go. Load time is almost as quick as your bank account emptying. Super easy to navigate and place an order.

 

Tophatter: This newbie may turn out to be my best friend or my worst enemy. Have a go at the animated 24/7 auction house in your pocket.  Bid on endless items, while chatting with others bidding on your item and the auctioneer. Interested in selling? Here’s the app for you. Communicate with those bidding on your item to help get it off your hands! This one’s a good way to try to get quality items for cheap or watch for the entertainment value.