12 Money-Saving Secrets Retailers Don’t Want You to Know

The holiday season is a time of joy and celebration, but it can also be a strain on your budget. From gifts and decorations to festive meals and New Year’s celebration supplies, the expenses can quickly add up. Luckily, using coupons can help you stretch your budget and enjoy a festive holiday season without breaking the bank. Here’s how to make the most of your holiday shopping with coupons.

Unlock Hidden Ways to Save

1Shop End-of-Season Sales

Retailers clear out seasonal inventory to make room for new collections, and that’s when you’ll find steep discounts. Shop for winter coats in February or patio furniture in September to score major savings.

2Sign Up for Birthday Discounts

Many stores offer special perks, including discounts or free gifts, on your birthday. Sign up for your favorite stores’ loyalty programs to cash in on these yearly rewards.

3Price Match Policies Are Your Friend

Retailers like Target and Best Buy will match the price of identical items sold by competitors. Always check if your retailer offers a price match to avoid overpaying.

Decode the Sales Cycle

1Shop the Clearance Section First

Most stores place clearance racks in the back to encourage you to browse full-price items first. Go straight to the clearance section for the best deals before checking out anything else.

2Use Discount Gift Cards

Websites like Raise and CardCash sell discounted gift cards for major retailers. You can save up to 20% or more on purchases just by paying with a discounted gift card.

3Take Advantage of Overstocks and Floor Models

Retailers need to move floor models, overstocks, and slightly damaged items quickly. Ask for discounts on these items—often, you can save big just because the box is dented or the product is slightly used.

Master Online Shopping Hacks

1Leave Items in Your Cart

If you’re shopping online, try leaving items in your cart without completing your purchase. Many retailers, like Old Navy and Macy’s, will send you a discount code within a day or two to entice you to check out.

2Use Price Tracking Tools

Websites and browser extensions like Honey and CamelCamelCamel track price drops on products. They’ll notify you when prices decrease so you can shop at the best time.

3Sign Up for Text Alerts

Retailers often share exclusive offers and coupons through text messages. Signing up for text alerts can help you stay ahead of deals that aren’t widely advertised.

Outsmart Retailer Tricks

1Beware of the "Buy More, Save More" Trap

“Buy one, get one 50% off” sounds like a deal, but it can lead to unnecessary spending. Only take advantage of these offers when you genuinely need the extra item.

2Shop With a Budget in Mind

Retailers create layouts that tempt you to overspend, from strategically placed displays to limited-time offers. Stick to a set budget and a shopping list to avoid impulse buys.

3Don’t Fall for Free Shipping Minimums

Retailers use free shipping thresholds to get you to add more to your cart. If you don’t truly need extra items, consider paying for shipping or look for a free shipping promo code instead.

Conclusion