How This Aussie Bloke Made $3,500 Whilst Spending Money

Do you love online shopping? Looking for a way to turn everyday spending into savings? Wondering how to shop smarter and actually be rewarded every time you make a purchase?

If you answered yes, keep reading, because I’m about to share how I turned my online shopping habit into real, cold, hard cashback.

One of the best things about online shopping is the convenience. Whether you’re scrolling at midnight in bed or waiting to pick up the kids from school, it’s always there—and so are the deals. But there are tricks most people don’t know about that can turn ordinary purchases into serious savings. For me, that means over $3,500 in cashback—just by doing what I already do.

Want in? Here are 3 tips to help you earn savings while you shop:

1. Be Actively Involved in Online Communities

There’s a whole world of budget-savvy legends out there. People who live and breathe discounts, hacks, and money-saving tips. Jump into those forums (such as OzBargain) and social spaces (Reddit), and you’ll find them cutting through the marketing fluff to tell you what’s actually worth your time.

YouTube and TikTok are also goldmines for real reviews and product comparisons, far better than polished ads. Whether it’s a niche product or a big-brand bargain, chances are someone’s already posted their experience.

These platforms let you learn from others, get trusted recommendations, and stay ahead of the game.

2. Build Your Consumer Awareness

Never be afraid to ask questions or read the fine print. I remember sitting with a few mates arguing about which bakery made the best pie. While most of them were focused on the flavour, I was already breaking down price, quality, and value. (Spoiler: it was the one with the flaky top and no markup.)

That sounds small, but it’s how I think about everything. Being a smart shopper isn’t about being tight; it’s about being informed. Whether it’s spotting sneaky fees or comparing similar products, I always aim to make the most value-driven choice.

Some say I’m a bit of a watchdog. Others say I’m “that guy” who plays devil’s advocate. Either way, it works.

3. Monitor the Best Deals

Want to maximise savings? Keep an eye on the big sale events, Amazon Prime Day, Cyber Monday, Boxing Day, EOFY, and pounce when the time is right. But don’t stop there. I use cashback platforms like TopCashback year-round, so even outside sale seasons, I’m still stacking value.

Combine cashback with major promotions, and you’ll be surprised how quickly it adds up.

In total, I’ve racked up around $3,500 in cashback, and I know how it sounds. Too good to be true, right? But with the right mindset, a bit of research, and the right tools, it’s not only possible. It’s smart.

About Justin Vatousiou

I’m just a regular Aussie bloke who loves a good bargain and knows how to stretch a dollar. Over the years, I’ve made over $3,500 in cashback; just by doing what I was already doing: online shopping. I’m all about finding smart ways to spend, whether it’s through cashback sites, sale stacking, or digging through discount forums. I’m not tight; I’m just not keen on paying more than I have to. If there’s a hack out there to save money, I’ve probably tried it (and told my mates about it).