How Do Promo Codes & Discount Codes Work? (Plus 10 Promo Codes for 2020)

The beginnings of the humble coupon have been widely credited to the Coca-Cola company, way back in 1887. While traditional clip-out coupons have fallen out of favor a bit in the digital age, they’re far from long-gone. Instead, companies often rely on coupon codes or promo codes that can be applied to single items or to an entire order.

Promo codes (short for promotional codes) are a series of letters and numbers that can be used as a sort of password to savings. They’re often offered as part of a marketing strategy and are effective for a limited time. To use a promo or discount code, it must be typed into the correct field during checkout of an online shopping order. They can be found on individual companies’ websites, or you can find them on savings sites like Swagbucks, Shoply, or Coupons.com.

Both customers and business owners benefit from promo codes: businesses gain as customers have an added incentive to buy their wares, while patrons save cash and get the lowest prices on applicable purchases.

The promo code that’s best for you is one that offers you savings on products you want. However, some offer great savings on a variety of items, and are most worth looking into. Check them out:

10 best Promo Codes for 2020

Shein

Shein is an online-only clothing store that specializes in bringing affordable fashion to you. Receive 20% off any order at Shein using a promo code that slashes already low prices on Shein’s summer fashions.

Amazon

Amazon may have started out as an online book retailer, but it’s obvious now that they offer so much more. The answer to all great questions in life is, “you can probably get it on Amazon.” Well, Amazon has a coupon page that displays digital coupons and Amazon promo codes so you can “get it on Amazon,” and bank the savings for a rainy day, too.

Walmart

One of the best things about getting a promo code for Walmart is that you can enjoy the vast array of products they offer. While some codes work only for specific departments, the choice and usability offered by Walmart promo codes make them well worth your while.

Target

Amazing savings can come from using coupon codes for another of America’s great general stores. Get Target coupons like these ones on Swagbucks (including one to save 25% on patio items) to save alongside seasonal sales and deals.

Hobby Lobby

An arts and crafts specialist, Hobby Lobby has supplies for all your upcoming creative projects. Get inspired with a Hobby Lobby promo code that could save you 40% off any online purchase, and get your hobby on!

Michaels

A Michael’s promo code may be on your wish list if you enjoy capturing your fondest memories through scrapbooking or framing. Luckily, Michael’s has some savings gems, like this Michael’s promo code available on Swagbucks that will grant you 25% off any regular priced single item order.

Office Depot and Office Max

More people are working from home than ever – if you’re one of them, you may need to stock up on essentials like printer ink, pens, and other office items. Office Depot and Office Max are offering plenty of deals, including a coupon code to save 15% off their entire site.

Hello Fresh

Been dying to try Hello Fresh, the food retailer that sends you ready-to-make meals straight to your door? Now may be the time, because Hello Fresh has a promo code to receive $80 off your first box, plus free shipping.

Best Buy

Save on appliances and electronics of all shapes and sizes with Best Buy’s promo codes. You could score up to 20% off small appliances. Fresh coffee, anyone?

Gap

Stay fashionable – at a discount. We’re in the heat of summer now, but fall styles will be hitting the racks in no time. By entering your email at Gap.com, you can get access to a code that will save you 25% off your order of regular-priced merchandise. Check out these Gap coupons for extra savings.

Save with Coupon Codes

Sniff around to find the best deals you can with coupon codes – some will come from the companies themselves (Bath and Body Works is crazy about coupon codes, and fashion retailers often use the codes to offer flash sales), while others can come from your favorite savings site. And promo codes aren’t the only way to save. Sites that advertise codes will also tell you about weekly flyer deals and ongoing promotions that save you big-time on the items you need most. Happy shopping!