There are many different ways to go about shopping. It doesn’t matter if it’s for groceries, clothing, or even a new car; there is always something you need to shop for at any time. The following are some efficient ways for saving money when shopping:
1) COMPARISON SHOPPING
Comparison shopping allows one to compare prices between various websites and stores to find the best deals. Websites such as Google Shopping, ShopBot, Kayak, and Pricewatch offer price comparisons for products.
2) COUPONS / DISCOUNT CODES
Coupon codes are specific voucher codes that can be entered during the checkout process of either an online store or physical store to obtain a discount. Websites such as Honey collect coupon codes from various sources and give users great deals on their favorite stores.
3) REWARDS PROGRAMS
Rewards programs are designed to give back to the consumer for shopping at a particular store. Retailers offer frequent shopper cards, online shopping clubs, and other rebate systems to encourage customers to shop with them.
4) SALE PRICES / SHOPPING PERIODS
Although sales are meant to increase product turnover, they can also be used to save money. Shopping on sale or during sales periods will help one get more for less.
5) AVOID UNNECESSARY ITEMS
By avoiding buying products that are not of absolute necessity, one can prevent spending excess money needlessly. Sometimes consumers find satisfaction in buying unnecessary items simply because they are on sale and can be expensive when they are not.
6) CASHBACKS / REBATES
Cashbacks and rebates can be used in conjunction with other shopping methods to save money on purchases. Cashback websites such as Quidco reward customers for shopping at specific retailers with cashback points which can later be exchanged for cold, hard cash.
7) BULK BUYING
Buying items in bulk is an effective way to save money. Things like coffee, snacks, toiletries, and other consumables can be purchased at a much more affordable price when bought in bulk.
8) SHOPPING SECONDHAND / USED ITEMS
One can also get great deals on secondhand or used items by purchasing them from either a retailer or a private individual. Websites such as Gumtree and eBay are great places to find deals on used items.
