Key takeaways
- Best for: Digital products, E-commerce, Course creators
- 5 steps from opt-in to onboarding emails
- Watch tripwire take rate, average order value, ascension rate
What a tripwire does
The hardest sale is the first one. A tripwire is a small, genuinely valuable offer that turns a subscriber into a customer. Once someone has bought and had a good experience, they are far more likely to buy again.
Step-by-step build
- Show the tripwire on the thank-you page right after opt-in, while interest is highest.
- Make it a logical next step from the lead magnet (e.g. checklist → full template pack).
- Add an order bump on checkout that complements the tripwire.
- Offer the core product as a one-click upsell after purchase.
- Onboard buyers with emails that help them use what they bought.
Metrics to track
| Metric | Why it matters |
|---|---|
| Tripwire take rate | Subscribers who buy the first offer. |
| Average order value | Lifted by bumps and upsells. |
| Ascension rate | Tripwire buyers who later buy the core offer. |
Tools that fit this blueprint
Disclosure: Funnel Guru Training may receive compensation when you purchase through qualifying links on this page. This never changes our assessments. How we make money.
ThriveCart
ThriveCartCheckout and cart platform with bumps, upsells and a built-in affiliate centre.
Best for: Digital-product sellers wanting higher order value
SamCart
SamCartCheckout-focused platform with templates, upsells and subscriptions.
Best for: Creators selling courses, coaching and subscriptions
ClickFunnels
ClickFunnelsOne of the best-known dedicated funnel builders, covering pages, checkout, upsells, email and memberships.
Best for: Info-product and course sellers who want an all-in-one sales funnel platform
Kit (formerly ConvertKit)
KitCreator-focused email platform with tag-based subscribers, visual automations and landing pages.
Best for: Creators, bloggers and course sellers
Templates for this funnel
- Thank-You Page Template - A simple structure for the page after an opt-in or purchase: confirm, set expectations, offer one next step.
FAQ
Is a tripwire just a discount?
No. It's a standalone offer designed to be the natural next step, not a discounted version of your main product.
Related blueprints
- Lead Magnet Funnel - Trade a genuinely useful free resource for an email address, then build trust with a short sequence before making an offer.
- Webinar Funnel - Use a live or automated training session to teach, build belief and present an offer to a warmed-up audience.
- Local Service Appointment Funnel - Turn local searches and ad clicks into booked jobs with a fast service page, quote form and automated follow-up.