Best Shopping Sites and Apps of the Year

The January 2013 issue of ShopSmart magazine, from the publisher of Consumer Reports, highlights 2012’s best sites and free apps that can save shoppers time and money.
Here’s a selection of super sites that make shopping fun and easy – and can help shoppers find cool stuff to buy:

• CouponBlender.com highlights the best deals from dozens of coupon sites.

• HandBagHeaven.com features beautiful bags at deep discounts; free shipping for purchases over $50.

• MyGroceryDeals.com allows shoppers to enter their grocery list in the Quick Shop tool to see where the stuff is on sale; the list can also be sent to a phone.

• TechBargains.com is a great resource for deals on electronics and gift cards.

• TheBudgetBabe.com helps shoppers locate hot celeb styles for less.

Shopping apps are also a great resource for discounts and more – here are some of ShopSmart’s favorites from the past year:

• CardStar consolidates users store loyalty cards into one app and helps get in-store discounts when presented at checkout. Works on: Android, Apple, BlackBerry and Windows.

• Grocery Smarts Coupon Shopper matches store circulars with manufacturer coupons so users can see where they can save the most. Works on: Android.

• RetailMeNot has gone mobile. Users can score coupon codes when shopping on their phone. Works on: Apple.

• ShopKick can earn users points (called kicks) when just fir entering a participating location then cash them in for free merchandise or meals. Link a credit card and score even more perks. Works on: Android and Apple.

• Walgreens is the best overall drugstore app for managing a family’s healthcare. Users can refill prescriptions, set reminders to take medications, and access coupons and offers right from their phone. Works on: Android, Apple, and BlackBerry.