Google isn’t just a search engine — it’s packed with smart features designed to help you save money without extra effort. Whether you’re hunting for the best deals, tracking prices, or managing your subscriptions, Google’s got hidden tools that make your wallet happier. Here are 5 powerful Google features you probably don’t know about but should start using today.
1. Google Shopping Price Tracking Alerts
If you frequently shop online, this hidden feature can save you serious cash. When you search for a product on Google Shopping, you can turn on price tracking for that item. Google will then send you notifications when the price drops, helping you buy at the best deal.
- How to use it: Search for the product on Google, scroll to Google Shopping, and click the “Track Price” button.
- Why it helps: You avoid impulse buying at high prices and get notified automatically about sales.
Bonus tip: Combine this with cashback sites or credit cards that offer rewards for online shopping to maximize savings.
2. Google Flights Price Insights
Travelers rejoice! Google Flights doesn’t just show flight options—it also provides price insights that reveal whether ticket prices are high, typical, or low based on historical data.
- How to use it: Search your flight route and dates on Google Flights. Look for the “Price Graph” or “Tips” section to see if prices are expected to rise or drop.
- Why it helps: You can plan your bookings smarter, avoiding overpaying for flights.
You can even set up alerts for specific flights, so Google emails you when prices drop.
3. Google Maps Fuel Cost Estimates
Planning a road trip? Google Maps now estimates your fuel costs based on your vehicle type and distance, helping you budget your trip better.
- How to use it: Enter your start and destination points, then click on the car icon. Look for the fuel cost estimate based on current average gas prices.
- Why it helps: You get a clear idea of travel expenses upfront, so you can plan stops or decide if flying might be cheaper.
Pro tip: Use this alongside apps that compare local gas prices to find the cheapest fuel stations on your route.
4. Google Pay Subscription Management
Many people forget about the subscriptions they’ve signed up for, leading to wasted money. Google Pay now offers a subscription management tool that lists all recurring payments linked to your account.
- How to use it: Open Google Pay, go to the “Subscriptions & Services” section, and review your active subscriptions.
- Why it helps: You can easily spot unused or forgotten subscriptions and cancel them, stopping unnecessary charges.
This feature keeps your spending transparent and prevents surprise bills.
5. Google Lens Price Comparison
Google Lens isn’t just for scanning images — it also lets you compare prices in real-time by scanning product barcodes or photos.
- How to use it: Open Google Lens on your phone, scan a product’s barcode or label in a store, and see price comparisons online.
- Why it helps: You avoid overpaying in-store by checking if a better deal exists elsewhere instantly.
This is especially handy for electronics, books, or any big-ticket item.
Bonus Tips to Save Even More Money Using Google Tools
- Use Google Alerts for Deal Tracking: Set up Google Alerts for specific products or brands you want to buy. You’ll get email notifications when those keywords appear in new deals or news articles.
- Leverage Google Calendar Reminders for Bill Payments: Avoid late fees by setting reminders for upcoming bills or subscription renewals in Google Calendar. This helps you plan ahead and avoid unnecessary penalties.
- Try Google Assistant for Quick Savings: Ask Google Assistant to find coupons or promo codes before you checkout online. Sometimes it pulls up valid discounts you wouldn’t have found otherwise.
- Check Google Reviews Before Buying: Save money by avoiding poor quality products. Use Google Reviews to check customer feedback and avoid wasting money on items with consistent complaints.
- Explore Google’s Free Courses: Google offers free courses through platforms like Google Skillshop or Coursera. Learning new skills for free can help you avoid spending money on paid classes or training.
Final Thoughts
Google quietly offers tools that can shave dollars off your daily expenses, from shopping smart to managing your subscriptions. By using these 5 hidden Google features — plus the bonus tips — you not only save money but also get smarter about your spending habits.
Recommended Tools to Maximize Savings
- Price tracking browser extensions like Honey can work alongside Google Shopping alerts to apply coupon codes automatically.
- Google Pay paired with budgeting apps such as YNAB helps you keep control of your finances.
Try these features out and let your wallet feel the difference!