Why spend more on in-store and online purchases when you can spend less? If there's a way to save on your everyday purchases, then why not take advantage of it? Even though a dollar might not seem like a big deal here and there, if you continue to follow the best bargain shopping tips, then all those saved dollars will add up quickly!
Although you know you want to save money, bargain shopping can come off as intimidating to those who haven't tried it before. You fear the thought of having to hold up an entire line at the register as they go through several coupons. Luckily, bargain shopping in 2024 is much more than clipping your coupons!
To learn how to bargain shop today, continue reading below. Here are a few bargain shopping tips any shopper should know about in 2024!
1. Know When Stores Have Deals
Did you know that there are certain days of the week when stores put out their deals? If you've ever worked in retail, then you might remember how the store you worked at put out their own deals. The best thing to do is to ask someone who works at the store.
What day of the week are deals put out? What day of the week are clearance items put out? When does the store do its markdowns?
There's a method to this, and stores have a schedule they stick to. Once you know the answers to these questions about your favorite stores, you can then shop on the right days.
2. Download Saving Apps
There are plenty of apps available for download that can help you save. Ask your favorite stores if they have their own app. If so, download these and explore the app for a savings program. You can also download other apps that give you money back each time you make a purchase at specific stores using your debit card. Some of these apps will hold the money until it reaches a certain amount, which you can then transfer to your bank. A combination of your stores' apps and money-back apps will help you save more than you expect.
3. Clip, Print, and Cut Out Coupons
Coupons are a great way to save and can be used in several ways. The shows you see on television showing individuals with pages of coupons are based on extreme couponing methods. Although this is something you can consider doing to save money, it's time-consuming and takes some time to get the hang of it.
Be sure to research how to extreme coupon before getting started. Otherwise, clip, print, and cut out coupons from different coupon sites, store catalogs, and more. Some coupons even allow you to double them.
For example, if you find a manufacturer coupon for a specific item, you can double it with a store coupon for the same item and save even more! Don't forget about promo codes when shopping online either. For example, this Amazon promo code site can help you save a ton on your online purchases!
4. Price Match With Other Stores
You might find one store in your area that has the best deals so you tend to shop there the most. Unfortunately, not one store will have the lowest price on all items all the time. Because many other stores will try to compete, you need to keep an eye out for the prices at various places.
If you find an item or two for a lower price at another store, then ask your store to price match it. Most stores will do this for you in order to get your business. Do be prepared to show proof of the item's cost at the other store though.
5. Follow Social Media Accounts
Most retail stores should have at least one type of social media account. If you're not already following them, then you should do so now. Make sure to follow all of your favorite stores on all their social media accounts.
How can this save you money? Stores will turn to their social media pages to promote new items, give discounts, offer promo codes, introduce sales, and more. It's a great way to get in the know and some stores will even give you a discount just for following them!
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6. Leave Items in Your Cart Online
Do you enjoy shopping online more so than in the stores? Any online shopper can tell you about a time they placed an item in their cart but didn't make the purchase. Can you think back to a time when you might have done this?
Try to do this more often. That's right. Put items you want in your cart online and then sign out of the website.
Most online stores will send an email or text message asking you about the items left in your cart and offer some type of promotion or discount to convince you to come back and complete the purchase. Even if you have the money to buy the items right then and there, don't. Wait a while and see if you earn yourself a discount.
7. Sign Up for Rewards Programs
Visit websites, download apps, or go inside the stores and ask about their rewards programs. You'll either receive emails, text messages, or another type of notification when certain deals are released. Being a rewards program member not only lets you know the scoop before anyone else, but you'll also receive special discounts and promotions no one else does.
If there's a store you shop at frequently, then make sure you sign up. Just about every store has a rewards program, even stores for your pets!
8. Purchase Seasonal Items in Advance
A great way to save on seasonal items is to purchase them in advance, way in advance, as in an entire year before. If you want to buy holiday items or other seasonal items, then buy them directly after the season ends.
This is when stores will mark their prices down to get them out of the store to make room for new items. You might not need the items at that moment, but when next year rolls around, you'll be glad you have them.
Even if you're not looking for something specific, you might find some items that you wouldn't think would be considered seasonal but are.
It's Time to Start Bargain Shopping
When you need a few ways to save in the store, use these tips listed above, and start bargain shopping today! The best thing about this list is you don't need to choose only one. Take all of these saving techniques and use them together to become a professional bargain shopper.
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