You’ve probably seen those shiny “affiliate marketing starter kits” that promise to make you rich overnight. Spoiler alert: most of them are fluff. They load you up with hype, a few generic tips, and maybe a PDF that’s been floating around since 2016.
But here’s the truth, the real affiliate starter kit you actually need is simple, practical, and, if you’re smart, mostly free.
Today, I’m going to walk you through the tools and strategies I wish I had when I started, the exact same ones I use right now, every day, to build my affiliate business. And because I’m all about transparency, I’ll tell you what’s free, what’s optional, and where you can start without spending a cent.
1. A Platform to Publish On (That Doesn’t Cost a Fortune)
When you’re starting out, you don’t need a $3000 custom WordPress theme or a designer on retainer. You just need somewhere to post content that gets seen by real people.
My top picks:
- Blogger – Totally free, owned by Google, and surprisingly powerful if you optimize your posts right.
- Google Sites – Another free Google tool, perfect for a clean, simple hub to link everything together.
- Medium – A free publishing platform with built-in readership. You can write articles that reach people without paying for ads.
Pro tip: You can use all three. Cross-publish your content so you’re not dependent on just one platform.
2. An Email List Builder That Actually Works
This is non-negotiable. If you’re not collecting emails, you’re building your business on borrowed land. Social platforms can disappear, algorithms change, but your list is yours forever.
My go-to? LeadsLeap.
Here’s why:
- Free plan available so you can start without risk.
- Built-in landing page builder, list manager, and even traffic tools.
- Automation that doesn’t require a tech degree.
I’ve used paid autoresponders, but LeadsLeap wins because it combines multiple tools under one roof without killing your budget.
3. A Way to Track and Understand Your Traffic
If you don’t know where your clicks are coming from, you’re flying blind. You need to know what’s working and what’s a waste of time.
Start simple with:
- Google Analytics – Free, powerful, and perfect for Blogger and Google Sites.
- LeadsLeap Link Tracker – Built right into your account, lets you see exactly how your affiliate links are performing.
Knowing which traffic sources convert saves you from chasing the wrong audience.
4. A Place to Create Graphics Without Needing Photoshop Skills
Good visuals get clicks. You don’t need a professional designer, just the right tools.
My top choice: Canva (free version is plenty to start). You can create blog headers, social media posts, and even infographics in minutes.
Pro tip: Keep a consistent color palette and style so your brand feels cohesive, even if you’re not a designer.
5. SEO and Content Optimization Tools
You don’t need to be an SEO wizard, but you do need to make sure your content can be found.
Here’s my affordable starter pack:
- Ubersuggest (free tier) – A great alternative to paid keyword tools.
- Free Hemingway App alternative – Use Expresso to simplify your writing and make it more readable.
These will help you rank faster and keep people reading once they land on your page.
6. A Simple Daily Content Plan
This is where most beginners fail. They create random content when they feel like it, then wonder why nothing’s happening.
Instead, pick a simple plan:
- 1 blog post per week.
- Repurpose that blog post into 3-5 social posts.
- Send one short email to your list pointing back to your post.
Small, consistent actions beat huge bursts of effort followed by burnout every time.
7. A Central Hub for Everything You Do
This is where your Google Site comes in.
Think of it as your “home base.” It’s where your blog posts, free resources, affiliate links, and contact info all live.
Your social media, email signature, and even YouTube channel should point here. Why? Because people remember one link better than a dozen scattered ones.
If you haven’t seen mine yet, you can check it out here: MakeMoneyWithRod.com.
Final Word: Start Small, Build Fast
Don’t overcomplicate this. You don’t need to spend thousands or wait until you “feel ready.”
Start today. Pick one free platform to publish, set up your LeadsLeap account, and commit to creating and sharing valuable content every week.
The real “affiliate starter kit” isn’t a secret formula. It’s the combination of free tools, smart habits, and the commitment to keep going even when it feels slow.
Your future business is waiting. You’ve got the tools now, it’s time to use them.
