Bargain shopping can be stressful in this economy. When shopping you not only want to save money shopping, but you want save money traveling. There are several ways to make your shopping experience a successful one.
Research
Before you step out the house to shop make sure you check prices online. If you have a blackberry then you check prices on the go. Prior to shopping make a map of where everything is and the most cost efficient route possible. When shopping there is no sense saving on shopping if you drive an hour to get to your shopping destination.
Shop online
Shopping online is a good way to compliment shopping on ground. Buying as much as you can online eliminates walking around with a lot of bags or making several trips to your car. There is no worse feeling walking to your car to drop bags offand rushing back before the store closes.
Split up
If you are taking your family out on the shopping trip be sure to split up. In order for this method to work effectively everyone has to have a list and make sure there is good communication. This method saves time and trips to the car.
Buy wholesale
If you use a certain item frequently, it is better to buy wholesale. Buying wholesale allows you to get the most for your money. Wholesale buying is worth it if you are not wasteful or if it is frequently used.
Shop at flea markets
Shopping at flea markets allows you to negotiate the price, if necessary. Flea markets tend to have a wide selection of goods, plus duplicate vendors. When shopping at a flea market try not to be to eager and make sure the crowd dies down. When negotiating at a flea market it is best to negotiate when the is not busy but also not dead.
Shop at thrift stores
Often times shopping at thrift stores you will find items with good structure. Usually, thrift store are items which if you put together properly you will save a lot of money as opposed to buying the piece as a whole. Thrift stores is a good way buy items way below market price.
Shop during the offseason
Most people do not like to shop for leftovers, but this is the best time to find things marked down. If you really want to put it in perspective no one really knows when you purchase your item except your social circle. If you want to fool your social circle you can be discreet about it.
Bargain shopping can be stressful in this economy. When shopping you not only want to save money shopping, but you want save money traveling. There are several ways to make your shopping experience a successful one. Good luck!