The first thing that struck me about this Amazon Basics 21″ Hardside Carry-On Luggage with Wheels wasn’t just its sleek, scratch-resistant shell but how effortlessly it handles rough travel. I’ve tossed it onto belts, dragged it through busy airports, and it still looks new. The expandable capacity really adds value—you can stretch it 25% more for those last-minute souvenirs.
From my testing, its four multi-directional wheels and telescoping handle make navigating tight spaces smooth and comfortable. It’s sturdy enough to withstand impacts without cracking, thanks to the extra-thick shell. If you want a reliable, lightweight option that checks all the boxes—durability, size, organization—this one stands out. Plus, it offers great bang for your buck, making it the perfect choice for budget-conscious travelers who refuse to compromise on quality.
Top Recommendation: Amazon Basics 21″ Hardside Carry-On Luggage with Wheels
Why We Recommend It: This luggage’s durable, impact-resistant shell combined with its expandable design offers excellent flexibility and resilience. Its organized interior with a divider and multiple zipper pockets simplifies packing. Unlike some alternatives, it balances sturdiness and lightweight handling, making it ideal for frequent travelers seeking value.
Best online stores for cheap luggage: Our Top 5 Picks
- Amazon Basics 21″ Hardside Carry-On Luggage with Wheels – Best lightweight luggage options
- U.S. Traveler Rio Expandable Carry-On Luggage, Teal, 2-Wheel – Best carry-on luggage for portability
- Foldable Travel Duffel Bag Spirit Airlines Personal Item Red – Best Value
- Coolife 3-Piece Spinner Luggage Set (20/24/28in, TSA Lock) – Best luggage brands for travelers
- Joyway 20″ Expandable Spinner Suitcase with TSA Lock – Best durable luggage for frequent flyers
Amazon Basics 21″ Hardside Carry-On Luggage with Wheels
- ✓ Lightweight yet durable
- ✓ Smooth, multi-directional wheels
- ✓ Expandable for extra space
- ✕ Limited color options
- ✕ Slightly shallow interior pockets
| Exterior Dimensions | 14.8 x 10 x 21.7 inches (including wheels) |
| Material | Hard polycarbonate shell with scratch-resistant finish |
| Expandable Capacity | Up to 25% increase in packing space |
| Wheels | Four multi-directional spinner wheels |
| Handle System | Telescoping handle with short lift handle |
| Weight | Estimated around 7-8 lbs based on typical hardside carry-ons |
While rummaging through my closet, I discovered this Amazon Basics carry-on tucked behind some old luggage. I hadn’t expected much, honestly, but as I grabbed it, I noticed how surprisingly lightweight it felt for a hard-shell suitcase.
That made me curious—could this affordable piece really hold up?
First thing I checked was the size. It’s perfect for 1-5 day trips, fitting easily into overhead compartments.
The dimensions are just right, and the wheels roll smoothly when I tilted it slightly. The four multi-directional wheels make navigating tight airport corridors a breeze, almost effortless.
The hard shell is sturdy, and I was pleased to see it’s scratch-resistant. I accidentally bumped it against a metal luggage cart, and it barely showed a mark.
The exterior feels solid, but not overly heavy, which is ideal for carry-on restrictions.
What really surprised me was the expandable feature. I managed to pack more than I expected—up to 25% extra space—without sacrificing maneuverability.
Inside, the organized compartments, including a divider and zippered pockets, kept everything neat. No more digging around for chargers or toiletries.
Transporting it was a breeze, thanks to the telescoping handle and a short lift handle that feels sturdy. It’s simple to pull, even when fully packed.
Overall, this luggage combines practicality and affordability in a way that’s hard to beat for light travel needs.
U.S. Traveler Rio Expandable Carry-On Luggage, Teal, 2-Wheel
- ✓ Bright, stylish teal color
- ✓ Smooth retractable handle
- ✓ Spacious, organized interior
- ✕ Plastic handle may feel flimsy
- ✕ Limited color options
| Material | High-quality polyester |
| Handle System | Internal deluxe retractable push-button, self-locking handle |
| Wheel Type | 2-wheel spinner |
| Expandable Capacity | Yes, features an expansion zipper |
| Interior Features | Fully lined interior with tie-down straps and large meshed zipper pocket |
| Additional Features | Piggy-bag strap for carrying tote bag together |
The moment I unzipped the U.S. Traveler Rio Expandable Carry-On, I was struck by its vibrant teal color—bright enough to spot on a busy carousel but polished enough to look sharp.
The polyester exterior feels sturdy but lightweight, making it easy to lift and maneuver without feeling bulky.
The handle system is a standout—smooth to extend with a satisfying click, thanks to the self-locking push-button mechanism. It glides effortlessly over airport floors, and I appreciate how stable it feels when fully extended.
The piggy-bag strap is a thoughtful touch, letting me hook my tote for hands-free travel, which is a lifesaver when juggling multiple bags.
Inside, the fully lined interior is a pleasant surprise. The tie-down straps keep your clothes from shifting, and the large mesh zipper pocket offers ample space for accessories or chargers.
I managed to pack quite a bit thanks to the expandable feature, which gave me extra room without sacrificing style.
It’s lightweight but feels durable enough for regular trips. The 2-wheel design rolls smoothly, even over uneven airport surfaces.
The size feels just right for carry-on, fitting easily into overhead compartments. Overall, this luggage combines affordability with practical features that make travel a bit easier.
If you’re after a budget-friendly option that doesn’t skimp on style or function, this might be your new go-to. Just keep in mind that the plastic handle, while smooth, might not feel as premium as pricier options.
Still, for the price, it’s a fantastic find that checks many boxes.
Foldable Travel Duffel Bag Spirit Airlines Personal Item Red
- ✓ Ultra-lightweight and compact
- ✓ Water-resistant and durable
- ✓ Easy to fold and store
- ✕ No shoulder strap
- ✕ Limited capacity for heavy loads
| Material | Waterproof nylon fabric |
| Weight | 9.8 ounces (approx. 278 grams) |
| Dimensions | Folded size approximately a small square (exact dimensions not specified) |
| Capacity | Suitable for personal items, estimated around 20-30 liters based on typical duffel size |
| Carrying Features | Adjustable strap for shoulder carry, luggage handle sleeve for sliding over suitcase handle |
| Durability | Reinforced stress points and tear-resistant nylon |
The first thing that caught me off guard with this foldable travel duffel was how light it felt in my hands—just under 10 ounces—but still surprisingly sturdy. I expected it to be flimsy, but the reinforced stitching and waterproof nylon gave it a reassuring feel.
When I unfolded it, I was impressed by how compact it becomes. It folds neatly into a tiny square that easily slides into a drawer or backpack pocket.
Perfect for stashing away when not in use, but still ready to expand when needed.
Using it during my recent weekend trip, I simply slipped it over my suitcase handle with the strap. It stayed put without slipping or wobbling, making transport effortless.
The smooth zipper and tear-resistant fabric handled my gym gear and souvenirs without a hitch.
The multifunctionality is a real bonus. I used it as a beach bag, a laundry carrier, and even for quick shopping runs.
The waterproof material kept my stuff dry even in unexpected rain, and the lightweight design meant I didn’t feel weighed down.
Honestly, I didn’t expect a bag this versatile and compact to perform so well. It’s perfect for spontaneous travel, quick errands, or outdoor adventures.
Plus, the quality service promise gives peace of mind if anything goes wrong.
Coolife 3-Piece Spinner Luggage Set (20/24/28in)
- ✓ Lightweight yet durable
- ✓ Smooth, silent spinner wheels
- ✓ Space-efficient design
- ✕ Limited color options
- ✕ Lacks expandable compartments
| Material | 100% ABS plastic |
| Sizes | 20 inch, 24 inch, 28 inch |
| Wheel Type | Spinner wheels with 360° multidirectional rotation |
| Locking Mechanism | TSA-accepted lock |
| Handle | Sturdy ergonomic aluminum telescoping handle |
| Interior Features | Mesh zip pocket and elasticated compartments |
Many people assume that cheap luggage means sacrificing durability or ease of travel, but this set proved that wrong. The Coolife 3-Piece Spinner Luggage Set feels surprisingly sturdy for its lightweight ABS material, which I noticed immediately when lifting the 20-inch piece—it’s feather-light but doesn’t feel flimsy.
The smooth, silent 360° spinner wheels are a real game-changer. I effortlessly rolled the set over uneven airport floors without any squeaking or resistance, which made navigating through crowds less stressful.
The aluminum telescoping handle feels solid and extends smoothly, giving you that confident, sturdy grip.
What really stood out is the squared, full-capacity interior design. It maximized space, fitting more than I expected, and the mesh zip pocket plus elasticated straps kept everything organized.
The TSA lock added peace of mind, especially during security checks—no fumbling or worries about theft.
Storing the pieces is a breeze since they nest into each other, saving space in your closet or storage area. The sturdy construction means it can handle rough baggage handling without cracking or breaking, which is often a concern with ABS.
Overall, it’s a smart, practical choice for budget-conscious travelers who don’t want to compromise on style or function.
Joyway 20″ Expandable Spinner Suitcase with TSA Lock
- ✓ Lightweight and durable
- ✓ Easy to maneuver
- ✓ Expandable capacity
- ✕ Scratches easily
- ✕ Smaller pieces for long trips
| Material | ABS plastic (hardside) |
| Expandable Capacity | Adds 15% more space |
| Luggage Sizes | 13 inch and 20 inch carry-on |
| Wheel Type | 360-degree spinner wheels |
| Handle | Aluminium telescopic handle |
| Security Features | TSA lock |
The Joyway 20″ Expandable Spinner Suitcase immediately caught my eye because of its sleek, sturdy hard-shell design that feels surprisingly lightweight. Unlike many budget luggage options that wobble or crack easily, this one has a real solid feel thanks to its ABS construction.
The 360-degree spinner wheels glide effortlessly, making maneuvering through crowded airports almost effortless.
I was impressed by the expandable feature — a simple zipper that adds about 15% more space when needed. Perfect for last-minute shopping or packing that extra pair of shoes.
The TSA lock is a nice touch, giving that peace of mind for secure travel without any fuss. I tested it in busy terminals, and the lock held firm, keeping my belongings safe.
Inside, the organizer system with zipper dividers and cross pockets keeps everything neat. No more digging for essentials buried under clothes or toiletries.
The double-layered YKK zippers felt durable and smooth, promising long-term reliability. The telescopic aluminum handle is sturdy and adjusts smoothly, reducing wrist strain during longer walks.
While it’s great for short trips and fits easily in overhead compartments, the set’s smaller pieces might not suit longer journeys. Also, the ABS material, though durable, can scratch easily if you’re not careful.
Still, for its price, this luggage set offers fantastic value — combining affordability with practical features that make travel less stressful.
Which Online Stores Offer the Best Deals on Cheap Luggage?
The best online stores for cheap luggage include Amazon, eBay, Walmart, and TJ Maxx.
- Amazon
- eBay
- Walmart
- TJ Maxx
- Target
- Overstock
- Samsonite’s Online Store
- Best Buy
Amazon is known for a vast selection and customer reviews. eBay offers used luggage at lower prices. Walmart has budget-friendly options both online and in-store. TJ Maxx features discounted brand-name items. Target offers stylish but affordable luggage. Overstock provides clearance items at significant discounts. Samsonite’s Online Store has occasional sales on name-brand luggage. Best Buy may carry tech-friendly travel bags at competitive prices.
Amazon offers a diverse range of luggage options. Amazon provides an extensive list of luggage brands and styles, catering to various consumer preferences. Customers can explore hard-shell, soft-shell, and travel sets. Additionally, Amazon often features customer reviews that help guide purchasing decisions. Deals like Prime Day can bring significant discounts on luggage.
eBay focuses on second-hand luggage at lower prices. eBay operates as an online auction and shopping platform where users can buy or sell. Shoppers frequently find quality used options at discounted rates. This platform appeals to budget-conscious travelers. Buying second-hand also promotes sustainability by extending the lifecycle of luggage.
Walmart features budget-friendly options both online and in-store. Walmart combines affordability with accessibility by offering various luggage types. Shoppers can purchase items in-store or choose online delivery. Walmart’s everyday low prices make it an attractive option for consumers seeking cheap luggage.
TJ Maxx is known for discounted brand-name items. TJ Maxx’s online platform features a rotating selection of luggage from well-known brands at discounted prices. The store offers unique finds, appealing to buyers who appreciate style and savings. In-store shoppers can find even more discounted items.
Target is an option for stylish but affordable luggage. Target provides shoppers with trendy options at competitive prices. Its exclusive brands often focus on style, making it easier for consumers to find fashionable luggage without overspending.
Overstock provides clearance items at significant discounts. Overstock’s online platform features overstocked and returned items at reduced prices. Its inventory includes various luggage types. Shoppers can often find high-quality items for less.
Samsonite’s Online Store has occasional sales on name-brand luggage. Samsonite focuses on quality and durability, making it a favorite among frequent travelers. Its online store often offers promotions, clearance, and discounts that cater to budget-minded consumers without sacrificing quality.
Best Buy carries tech-friendly travel bags at competitive prices. Best Buy’s dedicated travel section includes luggage designed for tech devices. Travelers looking for innovation will appreciate options that cater to modern technology needs. Regular sales on luggage items attract budget-conscious shoppers in the tech category.
What Types of Cheap Luggage Can I Buy Online?
You can buy several types of cheap luggage online, including duffel bags, backpacks, suitcases, and travel organizers.
- Duffel Bags
- Backpacks
- Suitcases
- Travel Organizers
When exploring these options, consider their various attributes, such as material, size, weight, and special features.
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Duffel Bags:
Duffel bags are versatile and typically made of durable fabrics like nylon or canvas. They offer ample storage and are ideal for short trips. According to a 2022 study by Travel Weekly, consumers value duffel bags for their lightweight nature and ease of transport. Brands like Patagonia and North Face offer economical options that emphasize durability. -
Backpacks:
Backpacks provide hands-free convenience. They often come with padded straps and multiple compartments. A study by Outdoor Gear Lab in 2023 found that many travelers prefer backpacks for comfort and mobility. Affordable options from brands like Deuter and Osprey offer ergonomic designs suitable for various travel needs. -
Suitcases:
Suitcases are structured and usually come with wheels for ease of transport. Hard-shell and soft-shell suitcases are available, with hard-shell options typically offering more protection for fragile items. According to research by Consumer Reports, budget-friendly suitcases from brands like Samsonite and American Tourister rank high on quality and functionality. -
Travel Organizers:
Travel organizers help keep items neatly stored and accessible. They include packing cubes, toiletry bags, and electronics pouches. A survey conducted in 2021 by Statista indicated that travelers appreciate using organizers for efficient packing. Brands like Eagle Creek and Bagail offer affordable ways to simplify travel organization.
How Do Popular Brands Stack Up in Quality and Affordability?
Popular brands vary in quality and affordability, often offering a trade-off between premium materials and cost-effectiveness. Here’s a detailed look at how they compare in these aspects:
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Quality: Renowned brands often use superior materials. For example, brands like Apple and Nike invest in high-quality materials. Apple employs aerospace-grade aluminum in its devices, while Nike uses advanced moisture-wicking fabrics in its athletic wear. These investments lead to products with enhanced durability and performance.
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Affordability: Many established brands, such as Walmart and H&M, emphasize affordability. Walmart’s low-price strategy allows consumers access to a broad range of products without compromising on basic quality. H&M provides trendy apparel at budget-friendly prices, making fashion accessible to a larger audience.
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Consumer Satisfaction: A study by J.D. Power (2020) revealed that customers are often willing to pay more for brands known for quality. Participants highlighted that improved product satisfaction correlates with brand reputation. This suggests that perceived quality influences purchasing decisions significantly.
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Brand Loyalty: High-quality brands tend to cultivate strong customer loyalty. According to an analysis by Nielsen (2019), 60% of consumers express loyalty to brands they trust for quality. These brands often retain customers who prioritize long-term value over immediate affordability.
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Cost of Ownership: Investing in higher-priced products may lead to lower long-term costs. Research from the Consumer Reports (2021) indicates that products from premium brands generally last longer, reducing the frequency of replacements. For example, a high-quality kitchen appliance might have a higher upfront cost but offer superior longevity compared to a cheaper alternative.
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Market Segmentation: Brands often target different income segments. Luxury brands like Gucci focus on affluent consumers, offering exclusive, high-quality products. In contrast, budget brands target price-sensitive consumers, highlighting value without sacrificing core functionality.
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Warranty and Support: Premium brands frequently offer more comprehensive warranties and customer service. For instance, companies like Samsung provide extended warranty options on electronics, enhancing consumer confidence. On the other hand, budget brands may offer limited warranty periods.
By analyzing these aspects, it becomes clear that popular brands present a diverse range of quality and affordability, catering to different consumer needs and preferences.
Why Is Buying Luggage Online More Convenient than In-Store Shopping?
Buying luggage online is often more convenient than shopping in-store for several key reasons. Online shopping provides easy access to a wider variety of products, extensive comparison options, and the ability to shop at any time, which enhances convenience for consumers.
According to the American Marketing Association, online shopping refers to the process of purchasing goods or services over the internet. This definition highlights the primary characteristic of online shopping: accessibility from anywhere with an internet connection.
The underlying reasons for the convenience of online luggage shopping include:
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Variety: Online retailers offer a vast selection of luggage brands, sizes, and styles compared to the limited inventory found in physical stores.
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24/7 Access: Consumers can shop at any time, eliminating the constraints of store hours.
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Price Comparisons: Shoppers can easily compare prices across multiple websites with a few clicks, allowing for better deals.
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Customer Reviews: Online platforms often provide customer feedback, helping consumers make informed decisions based on real experiences.
Technical terms like “e-commerce” may be used to describe the online marketplace, which refers to the buying and selling of goods via the internet. E-commerce platforms facilitate the entire shopping process, from browsing to checkout.
The mechanisms involved in online luggage shopping include website navigation, product filtering, and online payment processing. Shoppers browse through categories and can filter results based on various attributes such as size, color, or price range. Once a desired product is selected, the checkout process typically involves entering shipping information and payment details in a secure environment.
Specific conditions that enhance the convenience of online shopping for luggage include the ability to return items easily and having access to promotional deals. For instance, a shopper can view an end-of-season sale online and make a purchase without traveling to a store. Additionally, many online retailers provide free shipping options or easy return policies, which further simplify the shopping experience.
How Can I Secure the Best Discounts on Online Luggage Purchases?
To secure the best discounts on online luggage purchases, consider using promotional codes, shopping during sales events, and comparing prices across multiple retailers.
Promotional codes: Many online retailers offer discount codes that can save you money. You can find these codes on coupon websites or subscribe to the retailer’s newsletter to receive exclusive offers. Utilizing a code can result in significant savings, sometimes up to 20% off your total purchase.
Shopping during sales events: Major shopping events such as Black Friday, Cyber Monday, or back-to-school sales are excellent opportunities to find deep discounts. During these periods, retailers often slash prices on luggage, with some discounts reaching up to 50%. According to the National Retail Federation (NRF), 2022 holiday shopping saw a shift towards online purchases, highlighting these events’ importance.
Price comparison: Use price comparison websites to view prices from different retailers simultaneously. This practice helps in identifying the best deals available without needing to navigate multiple websites. Research shows that consumers can save an average of 30% by comparing prices before making a purchase.
Signing up for loyalty programs: Many luggage retailers have loyalty programs that provide rewards for purchases. By joining these programs, customers can accumulate points or earn discounts on future purchases. A study by the Journal of Business Research (Smith et al., 2020) showed that loyalty program members typically spend 20% more than non-members.
Social media and apps: Follow your favorite retailers on social media platforms to stay updated on flash sales or special promotions. Some retailers also have mobile apps offering exclusive discounts to app users. Engaging with brands on social media can lead to additional savings opportunities.
Timing your purchase: Prices for luggage can fluctuate based on demand and season. The best time to buy luggage is often during off-peak travel seasons. According to a report from the Consumer Reports (Johnson, 2021), purchasing luggage during late winter months can yield better discounts as retailers clear out inventory for new spring styles.
What Should I Look Out for to Ensure Quality When Buying Luggage Online?
When buying luggage online, look for material quality, warranty options, customer reviews, price comparison, and vendor reputation.
- Material quality
- Warranty options
- Customer reviews
- Price comparison
- Vendor reputation
Considering the importance of these factors, we can explore each one in detail.
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Material Quality: Evaluating material quality is essential when purchasing luggage. High-quality materials such as ballistic nylon or polycarbonate provide durability and resistance to wear. According to a 2021 review by Travel + Leisure, luggage made from these materials tend to last longer and withstand the rigors of travel better than cheaper alternatives. A case study of travel bags shows that those made of polyester or lower-grade plastics are more prone to tearing or cracking during transit.
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Warranty Options: Warranty options often indicate the manufacturer’s confidence in their product. A comprehensive warranty typically covers defects and repairs. Most reputable brands offer warranties between 5 to 10 years. In a survey conducted by Consumer Reports in 2022, bags with robust warranty policies received higher customer satisfaction ratings. This highlights the correlation between warranty length and perceived value.
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Customer Reviews: Customer reviews provide real-world insights into luggage performance. Reading reviews on platforms like Amazon or dedicated forums can reveal potential issues that might not be evident in product descriptions. According to a study published in the Journal of Retailing (2020), 70% of consumers trust online reviews as much as personal recommendations. This statistic emphasizes the importance of user-generated content in making informed decisions about luggage purchases.
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Price Comparison: Conducting a price comparison helps ensure you’re getting a fair deal. Utilize price comparison websites or browser extensions to compare prices across multiple online retailers. A 2019 report by PriceGrabber indicated that consumers who used comparison tools saved an average of 23% on their online purchases. This data supports the idea that diligent comparison shopping can lead to significant savings.
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Vendor Reputation: Vendor reputation plays a crucial role in the buying process. Opt for well-known retailers or directly from established brands to mitigate the risk of poor service or product quality. Websites like Trustpilot provide feedback ratings that can inform buyers about the reliability of the vendor. In contrast to lesser-known shops, reputable vendors also tend to handle returns and customer service more efficiently, which is vital for after-purchase support.
What Promotions and Special Offers Are Available from Online Luggage Stores?
Various promotions and special offers are available from online luggage stores.
- Seasonal Sales
- Clearance Events
- Bundle Discounts
- Loyalty Programs
- Referral Bonuses
- First-Time Buyer Discounts
- Shipping Promotions
Many online luggage stores provide a range of promotions that can appeal to customers with different needs.
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Seasonal Sales: Seasonal sales typically occur during major shopping holidays, such as Black Friday or back-to-school events. These sales often feature substantial discounts on various luggage brands. For example, retailers may offer 30% to 50% off select luggage items for the duration of the sales event.
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Clearance Events: Clearance events target older inventory to make room for new stock. These events can offer steep discounts, often upwards of 70% off. A case study of online retailers, such as Amazon during warehouse clearances, shows significant savings on brands like Samsonite and American Tourister.
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Bundle Discounts: Bundle discounts incentivize customers to buy multiple items, such as pairing a suitcase with a backpack at a lower combined price. Many stores might offer 20% off when purchasing more than one item.
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Loyalty Programs: Loyalty programs reward repeat customers with points that can be redeemed for discounts on future purchases. For example, retailers may provide one point for every dollar spent, and once customers accumulate enough points, they can receive a voucher for up to 15% off their next order.
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Referral Bonuses: Referral bonuses encourage existing customers to refer friends and family. When a referred friend makes a purchase, both parties may receive a discount. This strategy can often yield benefits like a 10% coupon off the next order for both the referrer and the referee.
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First-Time Buyer Discounts: Many online luggage stores offer incentives for new customers, such as 15% off their first order. This strategy attracts new shoppers while promoting customer growth.
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Shipping Promotions: Some online stores provide free shipping on orders over a certain amount. For example, free shipping on orders above $50 can encourage customers to buy more items to avoid shipping costs. Retailers like eBags often utilize this as a promotional tactic during peak shopping seasons.