How to Make the Most of Loyalty Cards and Cashback Schemes in the UK

Introduction

If you’re not using loyalty cards or cashback apps in the UK, you could be missing out on hundreds of pounds a year. From your weekly food shop to fuel fill-ups and even online purchases, rewards and cashback schemes offer free money for the things you’re already buying.

Here’s how to make every pound work harder with the UK’s best loyalty and cashback tools.

1. Supermarket Loyalty Cards: Points That Add Up Fast

Most major UK supermarkets offer loyalty schemes that reward you for regular spending. Some even offer personalised coupons and app-only discounts.

🛒 Top picks:

• Tesco Clubcard: Unlock Clubcard Prices and earn 1 point per £1 (100 points = £1)

• Sainsbury’s Nectar Card: Use in-store and online (now also works with eBay, Argos & Esso)

• Morrisons More Card: Earn points and receive instant discounts or vouchers

💡 Tip: Link your loyalty card to the store’s app to access digital coupons and bonus offers.

2. Cashback Websites: Money Back for Everyday Online Shopping

Cashback websites are free to use and give you a percentage of your spend back when shopping through their links.

💰 Best cashback sites in the UK:

• TopCashback

• Quidco

🛍️ Works with thousands of retailers like:

• ASOS

• Currys

• Boots

• Booking.com

Example: Spend £100 at Currys via TopCashback and get up to £5–10 back.

3. Credit Cards with Cashback or Rewards

Some credit cards offer cashback on spending or points that can be turned into vouchers. Just make sure you pay the balance off monthly to avoid interest.

💳 Popular options:

• American Express Platinum Cashback Everyday: Up to 5% cashback in the first 3 months

• Barclaycard Rewards: Earn points with no foreign transaction fees

• Chase UK Card: 1% cashback on all spending (including bills)

🔒 Use responsibly: Only use if you can repay in full each month.

4. Fuel Loyalty Schemes: Save at the Pump

With fuel costs high, every penny counts. Loyalty cards help you save or earn rewards while filling up.

⛽ Try:

• Shell Go+: Earn rewards, money off fuel, and get free hot drinks

• Esso Nectar: Collect Nectar points on fuel and in-store items

• Texaco Star Rewards: Points redeemable for vouchers or charity donations

5. Use Cashback & Reward Apps

Apps are a fast-growing way to stack savings without much effort. Link your bank account or scan receipts to earn cashback or points.

📱 Try:

• JamDoughnut: Buy gift cards through the app and earn instant cashback

• Airtime Rewards: Cashback paid directly to your phone bill

• Shopmium: Cashback on everyday grocery products (especially useful for trying new products for free)

6. Stack Rewards for Bigger Benefits

Want to turbocharge your savings? Combine different schemes!

Example:

• Use your Tesco Clubcard on a Tesco shop

• Pay with your cashback credit card

• Purchase through TopCashback

💡 This technique can stack points and cashback for maximum benefit on the same transaction.

7. Keep Track and Don’t Let Points Expire

Loyalty points don’t always last forever. Some schemes expire points after inactivity, so make sure you:

• Regularly check your app or account

• Set reminders to use points or vouchers

• Redeem before they vanish

📅 Example: Tesco Clubcard vouchers expire after 2 years.

Final Thoughts

Loyalty cards and cashback schemes are a simple way to save money on purchases you’re already making. With a little effort — and a few app downloads — you can start turning everyday spending into real rewards.