ShareWinning a prize is always a special feeling, whether it is a low-value gift coupon or a pricy electronic gadget. The excitement of this has now spawned a new activity known as comping, wherein people spend their time searching for competitions in the hope of winning valuable gift cards. Initially, what was a quiet pastime has now begun to gain attention, and it has been compared to gambling due to the element of chance and the possibility of rewarding gains.
Emerging Platforms Meet the Demand
The recent increase in interest in the use of comping has resulted in the creation of new platforms to cater to this need. Competition sites, like the newly, just launched bestcompetitions.com, make it easy for anyone to dive in by listing mystery box competitions where players can win great prizes like luxury items, collectibles, and even the latest gaming gear.
By aggregating competition sites, resources like these have established a one-stop shop where players can find the next opportunity to test their luck without having to search for opportunities across the internet. With rewards from everyday necessities to once-in-a-lifetime experiences, the attraction of competition websites has only grown.
How Comping Works
Comping is not just a matter of filling out a form occasionally. As a result, many compers enter dozens or even hundreds of contests per week. The concept is straightforward: the greater the number of entries, the greater the chances.
Even though no single player can hit the jackpot, due to the sheer number of chances, most players will win something, at least one prize, in time, ranging from small gadgets to luxury holidays. Also, since most competitions require little to no fees to enter, the participant's investment is seen as a time investment rather than a monetary risk, which makes the barrier to entry very low.
Getting Started
Setting up an email address exclusively for comping is a good first step for many beginners. Confirmation messages and possible notification of winning are overwhelming; having a separate inbox for these actions will help organize them. Some compers even have an additional phone number or SIM card to keep their personal information secret.
Being active online is important too, as most giveaways are conducted on social media platforms such as Instagram or Twitter, where you'll need to like, share, or comment in order to be entered into the giveaway. By following brands, influencers, and established players, new entrants can easily identify new opportunities.
Identifying the Right Competitions
The growth in the number of contests out there can be overwhelming, so a targeted approach is a smart bet. Companies and communities of people are already out there who help filter through the noise by posting vetted competitions daily. Online message boards and social networks - there are many specialized boards where experienced compers share links and tips.
Competition hashtags like #competition and #giveaway on social media platforms also show entries of the active contests, but it's a good idea to see the closing date and make sure that the competition is for real before participating in it.
Staying Organized
Monitoring entries is another important key to success. Many experienced compers keep spreadsheets or notebooks in which they write entries of when and where they entered, along with end dates and contact methods.
This will avoid accidental double entries, which result in disqualification. Being able to use browser auto-fill or use pre-written email templates can also help to streamline the process, allowing compers to enter more responses in less time.
Playing It Safe
While most competitions are legitimate, there are scams out there. Common warning signs include attempts to collect payment for a prize or freebies without any terms and conditions. Verifying that the organizer's social networking account is official and searching for verifiable contact information can help avoid unpleasant surprises.
Having antivirus software installed and keeping the amount of personal data you share to a minimum are other reasonable precautions. By limiting the sites chosen and sticking to trusted sources and established brands, compers can enjoy the hobby without needless risk.
A Hobby With a Gambling Edge
Comping is psychologically similar to conventional gambling. The excitement of winning, the euphoria of receiving an email about a prize, and the urge to play "one more time" in a contest all resemble the ups and downs of games of chance. The difference is that the process of comping usually does not cost anything, making it feel safer.
Still, it can take a lot of time, and some enthusiasts claim that the excitement keeps them engaged, similar to a professional gambler pursuing the next big jackpot.
Why People Keep Coming Back
For many, comping is more than a means to win. It offers a sense of community through online forums and social groups, where members can share tips and celebrate their successes. The wide range of prizes also makes it fun.
One day it may be a gourmet food hamper, the next a weekend getaway. Even little victories lead to a feeling of achievement and keep the motivation high.
