To be honest, I never imagined that I would end up using three different mobile apps to get groceries. However, here we are. I eventually gave in to the temptation of online grocery shopping since I was attempting to eat healthier, avoid crowds, and manage deadlines. I can’t go back anymore.

The best aspect, though, is that I discovered ways to save more money each time I stocked up rather than simply switching to delivery. It all began with JioMart, BigBasket, and Blinkit Gift Cards from Kotak.

Let me clarify. 

How I Stumbled Upon the Best Grocery Trick Ever

One day, I was browsing grocery offers and found popular brand Gift Cards from Kotak Instant Vouchers. 

• Rs. 1,000 JioMart voucher for Rs. 970 (3% OFF)
  
• Rs. 1000 BigBasket voucher for Rs. 970 (3% OFF)
  
• Rs 1000 Blinkit voucher for Rs. 990 (1% OFF)
  

No coupons, no expiry panic—just straightforward discounts. That was my “Wait, why isn’t everyone doing this?” moment.

My Weekly Routine Using Gift Cards on Grocery Apps

Depending on what I need and how soon I need it, I rotate between these three:

BigBasket

My go-to for weekly staples—rice, dal, milk, eggs, and that one obscure spice I always forget.

Blinkit

Perfect when I run out of coffee filters at 10 PM or need last-minute chocolate before guests arrive. Their online grocery shopping app is crazy fast.

JioMart

Best for monthly bulk shopping—flour, oils, toiletries, and “Buy 1 Get 1” temptations.

I usually buy my gift cards every Sunday evening when I’m planning my meals and setting up my week. That’s also when Kotak sometimes offers additional cashback or GyFTR Coins.

What I Loved About This Hack

• No coupon code drama—no need to hunt for new promo codes each time.
  
• Balance rollover—if I don’t use the full gift card in one go, the balance stays.
  
• Fast delivery still applies—especially on Blinkit, which remains my fave online grocery shopping app for emergencies.
  
• Works on offers too—I can still apply cart discounts and get free delivery.
  

FAQs: Everything I Wish I Knew Before Starting

Can I use the Kotak Instant Vouchers on the app or only on the website?
Yes, you can use it on both—just enter the gift card code in the payment section at checkout.

Do Kotak Instant Vouchers work during sales and promotions?
Absolutely. I’ve used mine during Flipkart online grocery shopping sales and BigBasket mega weekends with no issues.

What if my cart total is less than the Gift Card value?
The leftover balance remains in your account for next time.

Can I use more than one Gift Card in a single transaction?
Yes, most platforms allow you to combine up to 3 or more.

What happens if I cancel an order or return items?
The refund goes back to the same gift card balance.

Are these Gift Cards valid on all products?
Yes—whether you’re buying snacks, fresh produce, or cleaning supplies, there’s no category restriction.

How long are the Gift Cards valid for?
Most are valid for 12 months—plenty of time to use them.

Can I use these Gift Cards for subscription-based services like BB Daily?
Some platforms allow this; BigBasket, for example, lets you load your wallet with gift cards and pay from there.

Are there any hidden charges when I buy from Kotak?
None at all. You save because of the upfront discount.

Can non-Kotak users access these discounts?
Nope—you need to be a Kotak customer to buy from their gift card platform. But you can always ask a friend who is!

Final Thoughts: Why I’m Never Grocery Shopping the Old Way Again

Having popcorn and paneer delivered to your door in ten minutes and spending less than the MRP for it feels appropriate for some reason.

Before this, I believed that grocery shopping online was solely for convenience. I now understand that it can also involve wise financial decisions.

I promise that if you use Gift Cards, you are going to save a lot on groceries. Make a meal plan, get your coupons, and use the more than ₹200 you will save to pamper yourself. This technique has made my life easier (and less expensive), whether I’m hauling the whole family from BigBasket, using Blinkit when I run out of tea, or filling up at JioMart.

The only thing I regret? not getting started earlier.