Developing My Target Shopping Hacks

We probably spend way too much time and money at Target. My son, for instance, uses Target as his imaginary destination whenever he hops on his little tricycle. “Bye Mom, I’m going to Target!” The little dude is already branded. Sheesh.

However, because we enjoy shopping there so much, I’ve come up with some cool Target shopping hacks that have saved us money.

Just for you, here are my awesome Target shopping hacks for saving your family money:

1. Follow the Markdown Schedule

According to the website All Things Target, here is the low-down on when most Target stores do their markdowns by department:

• MONDAY: electronics, accessories, kids’ clothing, books, baby, stationery

• TUESDAY: domestics, women’s clothing, pets, food items

• WEDNESDAY: men’s clothing, health and beauty, diapers, lawn, and garden, furniture

• THURSDAY: housewares, lingerie, shoes, toys, sporting goods, décor, and luggage

• FRIDAY: auto, cosmetics, jewelry, and hardware

2. Get Refunds for Same Week Price Adjustments

For any item that goes on sale within a week of when you made your purchase, they will refund you the difference. For example, if you buy a pair of jeans and three days later you see they are 20% off, they will refund you the difference, assuming you have proof of purchase (they can look it up with your credit card!). If you pay in cash, make sure to hold onto your receipt at least for 7 days.

3. Shop Early in the Week

Target’s promotions generally run Sunday through Saturday, to follow their weekly ads which are released on Sundays. If you want to get the best selection, I would suggest shopping on Sunday or Monday to make sure the item doesn’t sell out.

4. Shop the Internal End Caps

If you like to find great deals and markdowns, check the internal end-caps, facing the walls. That is where you will find the greatest markdowns, up to 70% off sometimes! I’ve gotten a lot of great housewares items on the internal end caps in the past.

5. Find Deals on Holiday Items

The absolute best time to score deals on holiday items is the day after the holiday. Items will be at least 50% off and you will still have a great selection. If you’re an extra savvy shopper and are willing to risk the items being gone, check back within a week after the holiday and you may find items for up to 90% off, although your selection will be pretty spotty.

6. Add the Target App to Your Smart Phone

Through the Target App and their coupon texting service, you can get coupons and great deals by using your smartphone.

7. Check out the Dollar Section

I’ve found some really great things in Target’s dollar section. I especially love this section for finding little things for my kids like reusable water bottles and color books. I’ve also found some fun office supplies for myself like high-design file folders, cute notebooks – little things that make office work more fun.Bring Reusable Bags

8. Bring Reusable Bags

The savings are tiny, but they are savings nonetheless. If you bring in your own reusable bags, Target will take off 5 cents for each bag. Sure, it might seem small, but you’re saving money AND helping keep plastic bags out of the landfill — win-win!

9. Use Target Price Match Guarantee

Target will match other competitors’’ prices. If the item is the same but cheaper on Amazon, Walmart, Babies R Us, etc., Target will match the competitor’s price.

Want more ideas for how to save money at Target? Check out these links: Philly.com; Buzzfeed