Want to enjoy your favorite restaurant meals without the hefty DoorDash bill? You're in luck! Getting free DoorDash isn't about secret hacks or shady loopholes; it's about smart strategies and taking advantage of the many offers available. This guide is packed with beginner-friendly ideas to help you score those free deliveries.
Leveraging DoorDash's Promotions and Offers
This is the easiest path to free (or heavily discounted) DoorDash. DoorDash is constantly running promotions to attract new and retain existing customers. Keep an eye out for these:
Welcome Offers and Referral Programs:
- New User Bonuses: When you sign up for a DoorDash account, they often offer a significant discount on your first order, sometimes even making it completely free (up to a certain amount). Look for these welcome offers during signup.
- Referral Bonuses: Existing users often receive credits or discounts for referring friends. Share your unique referral link with your friends and family; when they use it, you both benefit!
Regular Promotional Codes:
- Check Emails and Apps Frequently: DoorDash frequently sends out promotional codes and offers via email and through push notifications in their app. These can include percentage discounts, free delivery, or discounts on specific restaurants.
- Social Media and Websites: Keep an eye on DoorDash's social media pages (Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, etc.) and promotional websites. They often announce deals there.
- Partner Promotions: DoorDash often partners with other companies (credit card companies, etc.) to offer exclusive discounts. Check your credit card benefits and other loyalty programs.
Optimizing Your DoorDash Spending
Even without free delivery, you can minimize your costs and effectively “get free” DoorDash through strategic ordering.
Strategic Order Timing:
- Off-Peak Hours: Ordering during off-peak hours (lunch and dinner rushes are typically the busiest) can often result in faster delivery times and sometimes lower delivery fees.
- Consider the Day: Weekday lunch and dinner are generally busiest, so consider ordering on off-days or during less busy times of the day.
Smart Restaurant Selection:
- Minimum Order Requirements: Pay attention to minimum order requirements to avoid unnecessarily increasing your order size to meet them.
- Restaurant Promotions: Check individual restaurants on DoorDash for their own promotions or discounts. They might offer deals that stack with DoorDash's offers.
Beyond DoorDash: Combining Savings
Don't limit yourself to DoorDash's own offers. Explore other avenues for maximizing your savings:
Cash-Back Apps and Credit Card Rewards:
- Cash-Back Apps: Many cash-back apps like Rakuten or Honey offer rewards for DoorDash orders. Activate the cash-back offer before placing your order to earn a percentage back.
- Credit Card Rewards: Some credit cards offer rewards or cashback on restaurant purchases. Using one of these cards for your DoorDash orders can contribute to significant savings over time.
Remember: Patience and Persistence Pay Off
Finding free DoorDash isn't a one-time event. It's about being proactive, staying informed, and taking advantage of the opportunities available. Check regularly for new promotions, use referral links, and combine different savings methods to maximize your chances of enjoying free or discounted food delivery. Happy ordering!
