Simple Tips for Saving When Shopping

“If shopping does not make you happy, then you are in the wrong shop” –Mimosa Rose

Shopping can either be a boon or a bane depending on the situation. More often than not, careening down the many shopping aisles in the grocery store or even just walking around the different areas of a certain department store can cause us to buy stuff we did not intend to purchase in the first place. After all, shopping malls have designed their stores to the effect that their shoppers would inevitably spend and buy more by being enticed with what is on display.

This may not necessarily be a bad thing, but persistently committing this oversight while shopping can have lasting repercussions on your budget or worse, rack up your credit card bills. The truth of the matter is, whenever you are shopping there are some things you need and some that you do not, yet. Unfortunately, we get ruled over our impulses and end up buying more than what we bargained for. However, if you followed these clever shopping techniques and tips, you could save a whole lot more. So, on your next trip to Shopping Mall, keep the suggestions below in mind. 

1.)    Make a shopping list

“Do I need to buy a home camera security or any appliances because it’s sale?” Before heading out to the store, arm yourself with a shopping list that should contain everything you plan on buying. Make sure you stick to what is only in the list and refrain from getting anything on the store that is not listed in it—even if you have forgotten to list something down which is why it is crucial to double-check this list. This keeps your impulse shopping to a minimum.

2.)    Compare prices

Do not immediately buy something you saw on the display shelf just because you need it. For instance, if you need a particular Xbox game, do not purchase it at your first game store. Look around and check the vicinity for the shop that sells it the cheapest. Additionally, check online and see if there are deals ongoing in order to save more.

3.)    Make shopping a last resort

Suppose you need a black dress for a formal event or a pair of pumps for someone’s wedding. Do not immediately resort to shopping for the said particular item but exhaust all available means first. Find out if you can borrow it from a friend or relative or see if there are any rentals as well. Do not immediately buy them brand new—most especially if you are only going to use the item once.

4.)    Refrain from visiting online shops when you are bored

In today’s modern world run by technology, shopping can easily be done at home. With this in mind, try to refrain from visiting online shops when you are bored such as eBay, Amazon and the like as this will likely tempt you to make the silliest purchases. Instead, find something else to do. The same goes for whenever you are out with your friends. If you are bored and are in need of something to do, make going to the mall the last resort.

5.)    Go thrifting

Be on the watch for yard and neighborhood sales as there is an excellent chance that you will get something cheaper than when it is bought in the mall. This is true for items that you do not necessarily need to have brand new. Likewise, check for thrifted items in websites like Etsy and eBay.