Imagine earning money while running errands or shopping—sounds too good to be true, right? But here's the twist: it’s not only possible but also becoming a lifeline for many families grappling with the soaring cost of living. In this eye-opening exploration, we dive into the world of apps that pay you for completing simple tasks, from snapping photos in stores to reviewing products. And this is the part most people miss—these gigs can add up to a surprising £500 a year or more, depending on your hustle. Let’s uncover the secrets, the controversies, and the fine print behind these money-making opportunities.
The Rise of Side Hustles: A Financial Lifeline
The struggle to make ends meet has pushed many to seek extra income. According to a recent Royal Mail report, the average side hustler dedicates 10 hours a week to earn around £5,420 annually. From selling old items on eBay to tutoring, the options are vast. But what if you could earn by simply using your phone while shopping? Enter the world of task-based apps.
Roamler: Mystery Shopping with a Twist
Standing in the middle of Superdrug, phone in hand, I felt like a secret agent. My mission? To verify the display of hair care products—all for a few pounds. Roamler, one of the most popular apps, offers tasks like mystery shopping and product reviews. But here’s where it gets controversial: while some tasks pay up to £10, others are time-consuming and may not cover travel costs. For instance, my Superdrug task earned me £4, but a rejected Boots task left me empty-handed after 20 minutes of effort. Is it worth the hassle? That’s for you to decide.
Shepper: Undercover Reviews for Cash
Shepper takes mystery shopping to the next level. Imagine posing as a customer in an EE store, covertly snapping photos, and reviewing the experience—all for £7.50. But here’s the catch: tasks are first-come, first-served, and the best ones disappear quickly. If you’re not flexible with your time, this app might not be your cup of tea. However, the freebies, like meals and drinks, can sweeten the deal.
Ipsos iSay: Surveys for Vouchers
For those who prefer earning from the comfort of their couch, Ipsos iSay offers surveys on everything from skincare routines to mobile phone contracts. Each survey earns you points, which can be redeemed for Amazon or PayPal vouchers. But here’s the part most people miss: surveys can be time-consuming, and rejection is common. After two weeks of completing 21 surveys, I earned just £5 in vouchers. Is it worth the effort? It depends on your patience and spare time.
Sprive: Cashback for Mortgages
What if your everyday shopping could reduce your mortgage? Sprive makes this possible by offering cashback on in-store purchases at major retailers like Tesco and Costa. But here’s the controversy: the cashback is tied to mortgage overpayments, meaning it’s a long-term savings strategy rather than quick cash. If you’re looking for immediate spending money, Jam Doughnut’s similar app might be a better fit, offering cashback in exchange for points that can be withdrawn as cash.
Webuybooks: Declutter for Cash
Need to clear out your shelves? Webuybooks offers a hassle-free way to sell books, DVDs, and games. Simply scan the barcode with your phone, and you’ll instantly know if it’s worth selling. But here’s the catch: many items are rejected or offered minimal amounts. While I earned £10.32 for a Nintendo Switch game, an unread hardback book fetched only 20p. Packaging costs also eat into your earnings. Is it worth the effort? It’s a quick way to earn a few pounds, but don’t expect a fortune.
The Bigger Picture: Is It Worth Your Time?
While these apps promise easy money, the reality is more nuanced. Tasks can be time-consuming, and earnings vary widely. For instance, completing two Roamler tasks a week could net you £416 a year, while one Shepper task weekly adds up to £390. Surveys on Ipsos iSay might earn you £216 annually, but only if you’re consistent. The real question is: Are these gigs a sustainable way to boost your income, or just a temporary band-aid for financial strain?
Final Thoughts: A Call to Action
As the cost of living continues to rise, side hustles like these are becoming increasingly popular. But are they a fair solution, or do they exploit users for minimal pay? We’d love to hear your thoughts. Have you tried these apps? Did they live up to the hype, or were they a disappointment? Share your experiences in the comments below—let’s start a conversation that could help others make informed decisions.
