Bargain Shopping

Finding Bargains

Have you ever wondered why some shoppers always find amazing bargains when you seem to pay full price for nearly everything? Bargain shoppers aren’t exceptionally lucky; they’ve simply learned where to look for the best deals.

If you’re interested in bargain shopping, you’ll want to take advantage of the following resources:

• Sales advertised in your local newspaper
• Coupons and rebates
• The clearance aisles in your favorite retail stores
• Factory and department store outlets
• Thrift shops or consignment stores
• Garage sales
• Websites such as eBay and Craig’s List

Shopping Tips

For many thrifty people, bargain shopping is a way of life. However, getting the most for your money does take some practice. If you’re new to the art of bargain shopping, keep in mind the following tips on your next shopping trip:

• If you don’t need the item, it’s not a bargain. Avoid filling your home with clutter at all costs.
• Avoid impulse shopping. If you need a new comforter, don’t buy the first one you like. Visit several different stores to compare prices and styles. Taking the time to do some comparison shopping will ensure that you get the best discount bedding for your needs.
• Always examine items you plan to purchase for signs of damage. Items with scratches, rips, stains, or broken parts aren’t a bargain unless you have the skills to do the necessary repairs.
• Save your receipts. Many stores will do price adjustments if you buy an item that is later placed on clearance.
• If you find a good deal on an item that is sold in bulk, try to split the cost with a friend to minimize waste.
• Don’t hesitate to ask the store’s sales clerks when new merchandise is scheduled to arrive or when sales are planned in a particular department.
• Plan ahead to take advantage of seasonal bargains. For example, children’s toys are typically deeply discounted after Christmas and patio furniture will be most affordable in late July or early August.
• If you like to shop online, remember to take the price of shipping into account. Look for free shipping offers whenever possible, especially if you’re purchasing furniture or other bulky items.

The Pitfalls of Bargain Shopping

While it’s only natural to want to get a good deal, remember that bargain shopping can have pitfalls as well. To be successful at bargain shopping, you must realize that price is only one factor that should be considered in your purchase.

Sometimes low-priced merchandise is poorly made. A shirt that falls apart the first time it is washed is no bargain. You’ll spend more money replacing or repairing the garment than you would have to buy a quality shirt the first time.

If you’re not careful, bargain shopping can become a time-consuming task that keeps you from attending to more important obligations. Never forget that your time has value as well. For example, driving all around town in an attempt to save $2 on a jar of pickles is probably a poor use of your Saturday afternoon. Strive for balance when deciding which money saving tips are best for you and your family.

Companies that make low-priced goods are often cutting corners on fair labor practices as well. For example, discount clothing is often made in Bangladesh and other third-world countries under appallingly bad conditions. It’s not uncommon to see children working in factories instead of attending school. In addition, workers are often not allowed breaks or refused overtime pay.

Remember, your priorities and value assessment are what determines a true bargain.

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