Unlock a Secret 22% Cash Back on Viator This Wednesday—Your Wallet and Wanderlust Will Thank You

Ever wonder why some folks seem to snag incredible deals while the rest of us just watch our wallets gasp in despair? Well, here’s a little secret from someone who’s been around the digital block more times than I can count: Rakuten, that sly little online shopping portal, is back at it again this summer with a string of offers that could make even the savviest traveler raise an eyebrow. Every Wednesday through August, they’re dropping a fresh deal—like 22% cash back on Viator bookings or a hefty $400 back at SoFi—and it’s not just about collecting coins; you can opt for those shiny American Express Membership Rewards points too, which, let’s face it, sometimes feel like finding buried treasure. So, whether you’re booking your next escapade or just grabbing everyday essentials, Rakuten has found a nifty way to turn your spending into earnings. Curious how to get in on the action? Dive into the details—your future self might just thank you. LEARN MORE

The summer savings continue at Rakuten, one of TPG’s favorite online shopping portals. Rakuten will reveal a new deal every Wednesday through August, including 22% cash back at Viator on July 23, and $400 cash back at SoFi on July 30.

We love Rakuten because it helps users earn easy cash back on everyday purchases (in the form of a mailed check or a deposit in your PayPal account every quarter) and because you can opt to earn valuable American Express Membership Rewards points instead of cash back.

Here’s what you need to know about Rakuten’s summer deals.

Rakuten summer deals

With Wednesday’s deal, you can get 22% cash back (or 22 Amex points per dollar spent) on eligible Viator purchases. Viator sells transfers and tickets to tours and activities around the world, so this could be a great way to save on your next adventure.

The Viator cash-back offer is not available on theme park purchases and virtual tours. It will be paid out on completed tours only.

Rakuten will unveil a new bonus offer each Wednesday. Next Wednesday, July 30, members can earn $400 cash back (or a whopping 40,000 Amex points) with SoFi, which offers loans, bank accounts, insurance and more. Check back next week for more details.

How to use Rakuten

Using Rakuten and other shopping portals is a great way to earn rewards on everyday purchases, but you can also leverage them to save on your next trip. Rakuten partners with several travel brands, like Priceline and Travelocity; there’s also Rakuten Travel, a booking platform for hotels in Japan.

With travel costs rising and exchange rates falling, booking hotels and activities through shopping portals that offer cash back can help recoup some of your travel budget.

Just be sure to read the fine print before shopping through Rakuten with any merchant, as earning rates often vary by category and exclusions may apply. For instance, Expedia is offering 8% cash back right now on activity bookings only; you’ll get 3% back on hotels and vacation rentals, and only 1% back on car rentals.

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And remember to only use coupon codes found on the shopping portal, as others can void your rewards.

Lastly, Rakuten is offering unlimited $30 referral bonuses from now through Sept. 30. If you already use Rakuten, have your friends sign up with your referral link. That way, you’ll both earn $30 after they make $30 in qualifying purchases in the first 90 days.

Bottom line

If you don’t use a shopping portal for your online purchases, you’re leaving valuable rewards on the table. Some portals offer cash back, while others let you earn airline miles or valuable transferable points.

We recommend using a shopping portal aggregator to make sure you’re getting the best return on your purchase.