Frankly, shopping is so woven into the culture of modern life that it has become a favourite pastime for many of us. Whether we feel stressed, sad, excited, or bored, we often turn to buying new items as a go-to activity. However, given the constant rise in the cost of living, mastering the art of savvy shopping is crucial to finding ways to save money.

Keep reading to discover practical tips and effective strategies that will help you stretch the budget further. They could be easily used by purchasing on the GotToShop.

Make a shopping list

Fashionable clothes just beg to be in your basket or cart, don’t they? In such cases, staying focused on what you need can prove challenging. The perfect solution is to create a checklist before heading to the store or starting online shopping. It is a simple yet effective method for avoiding impulse purchases, accidental duplicating of existing items, and prioritizing necessities, especially since many apps for generating a shopping list are available.  

Buy on sales

You might be surprised, but it is also about good planning. For example, if you delay purchasing the outfit for an important event such as a prom or wedding until the last moment, you will pay a sticker price to get what you want. However, if you take care of it in advance, you could find the relevant one from the clothes assortment during end-of-season sales or special sale dates like Black Friday.

The main point to remember is that purchasing an item on sale that you don’t need isn’t about saving money; it’s simply falling for a marketing tactic.

Join loyalty programs

Both online stores and brick-and-mortar ones usually offer additional benefits to regular customers who are members of loyalty clubs or rewards programs. These benefits are as follows:

• coupons and discounts;
• special prices and perks;
• points for money spent;
• free shipping, and more.

Their use could be a wise decision to make your shopping more cost-effective and enjoyable. 

Opt for store-brand products over big-name ones

This is definitely a smart financial move, as store-brand items are usually cheaper than their branded counterparts, while the difference in quality is often negligible. You don’t need to pay extra in clothes shops or the other types of stores just for big names and colorful packaging. Some studies show that savvy shoppers can save 40% or more by choosing store-brand products. Regardless of the exact amount, your wallet will be grateful for the savings.

Try the charity shopping

There are reasons beyond just savings to buy accessories and merchandise such as jewelry, books, home decorations, or wooden furniture from places like garage sales, thrift stores, and charity shops. 

First, if you are willing to do some digging, you could find unique and vintage items, making your shopping experience more interesting and rewarding. Second, by purchasing from these places, you are supporting various charitable causes. Finally, buying second-hand reduces waste and promotes recycling, contributing to a more sustainable and eco-friendly lifestyle.

Wait a bit before making large purchases

As a rule, the waiting time is usually 24 hours. So, allow the present day to pass before making an expensive purchase. It could save you a lot of money in the long run because this period enables you to reconsider whether you truly need the item as a lasting necessity or if it’s just a fleeting desire.  This approach also serves as a strategic move to avoid shopper’s remorse and guarantee that your financial decisions align with your long-term goals.

The bottom line

You have just received significant information about how to save money while shopping, including the following tips:

• make a shopping list;
• buy clothes, shoes, etc. on sale;
• join loyalty programs;
• choose store-brand products;
• try second-hand shopping;
• wait before making large purchases.

By incorporating these strategies into your shopping routine, you can accrue a healthy amount of savings that could be used as a financial cushion in times of personal financial challenges or as a fund for pursuing exciting plans and experiences.