Jace Lamonica
Loyalty doesn’t always mean efficiency, especially when small choices quietly drain your wallet or downgrade your meal. The golden arches have way more under the hood than most people actually take advantage of. A solid 10 of those underused moves are hiding in plain sight every time you visit, waiting to make your next order way smarter.
Ignoring Free Fries Every Friday
Every Friday, medium fries are offered free through the McDonald’s app with a minimum $1 purchase—no catch, no hoops. What started as a limited campaign has quietly become a regular treat for users who stay app-connected. It’s not just about fries but a weekly reward many still miss.
Not Participating In The Customer Satisfaction Survey
At the bottom of many McDonald’s receipts lies a survey code few people bother to notice. It offers guaranteed returns, like free sandwiches or BOGO deals, and takes less than five minutes to complete. Unlike random giveaways, this system instantly thanks guests who offer feedback with real food.
Overlooking “Buy One Add One” For $1 Deal
McD often rotates mix-and-match promotions where a second sandwich can be added for just $1. However, most guests still default to full-priced combos without realizing this value exists. Look inside the “Deals” tab or pay attention to digital ordering suggestions to catch these offers before they disappear unnoticed.
Not Customizing Your McDouble
It may come as a surprise, but the McDouble becomes nearly identical to a Big Mac, minus the middle bun and hefty price tag, when customers request Big Mac sauce and shredded lettuce. Custom options like this remain open to everyone and offer significant savings while preserving that familiar, satisfying flavor profile.
Skipping The McD App Exclusive Deals
People don’t realize how much the McDonald’s app can save them until they explore it properly—daily deals, limited-time offers, and bonus points often stack to reduce order totals. Whether it’s discounted McMuffins in the morning or free drinks with meals, these hidden features reward app users often.
Missing Out On Seasonal Favorites
Every year, fans wait for the return of items like the Shamrock Shake or McRib, which appear briefly before vanishing without warning. These limited-time releases aren’t heavily advertised, and those unaware of their seasonal cycles often miss out entirely. Familiarity with the calendar ensures better timing and more flavor variety.
Not Requesting Freshly Made Fries
Fries quickly lose their quality once they sit under a heat lamp for several minutes, and McDonald’s does not replace them unless asked. A polite request for a no-salt batch prompts staff to make a fresh batch, which results in hot, crispy fries that taste freshly cooked.
Overlooking The Buy One Get One Free Offers
Unlike static menu prices, the app often features BOGO offers that rotate weekly. Depending on the region, these sometimes include Egg McMuffins or chicken sandwiches. Full price becomes unnecessary when a quick check in the loyalty rewards section reveals the same item available twice for the cost of one.
Not Exploring The McValue Menu
While most customers scan the bright combo boards above the counter, the real savings often sit quietly in the value section. Here, you can find snack wraps, McChickens, and small fries at significantly lower prices. It’s not flashy or obvious, but it’s where seasoned regulars stretch their dollars further.
Ignoring Local Franchise-Specific Deals
Some McDonald’s franchise locations run their own promotions that don’t appear in the app or national ads. In some cases, staff are even given the flexibility to honor old prices or apply unlisted discounts during slower hours. This makes a simple conversation with the cashier unexpectedly rewarding.
