Saving money, especially in this economic climate, is the name of the game. Here are a few simple and easy little tricks to get the most out of your money when you’re shopping online.
1. Wait for sale prices!
Even an item you just have to have can wait… especially if, like me, you don’t have a pay check coming in. But, when that beauty is 50 % off and you’re sitting on a coupon code affording you another 10%, then we’re talking.
2. Utilize Coupon Codes.
These are an absolute gift. Whether you turn to the ones like a bonus 20% off all items (think the Designs by Stephene sale) or a free shipping gem, coupon codes are where it’s at. I find myself getting needlessly frustrated over ones that don’t work as a blanket code (ie: they don’t work for sale items, too), but it does sort of supplement the fun of it all. I mean, if you’re going to be buying the item anyways, why not save some money on it too?
3. Get store credit.
This is more specific to the sample sale sites like Gilt and Billion Dollar Babes, but it’s still an important thing to keep in mind. Store credit (the kind you earn, not the kind you get from returns, silly!) can come in handy when you need that shopping fix, but don’t have the cash to back it up. Combine that with a coupon code and you’re good to go!
4. Don’t buy what you don’t need.
I know I said the dreaded words with this one, but they’re really true. I mean, think about it: do I really need another pair of jeans? Of course not. Am I going to buy more? Probably. That’s my way. But there’s no need for me to keep spending and spending when it’s just beyond my means. If you’re breaking the bank (or Amex, for that matter) to try and stay up to date on trends, you’re doing something wrong. Slow down, girl!
5. Avoid impulse shopping.
The worst reason ever to buy something? Because someone told you to. Oh my god, if I could count how many items I own because someone told me to snag them, I’d… well, I’d have a lot. In a bad mood and need some retail therapy? Call a girlfriend or a friend. Open up a book.
6. Make friends with Minnow.
Beyond the fact that she’s brilliant, she offers you some amazing deals and great coupon codes… every day. If that’s not enough of a reason, she’s one of two people I’m going to see next week when I head to Seattle. So, be jealous.
My absolute favorite coupon code site? Retail Me Not. It’s, in my opinion, one of the best updated and most organized of the sites, and it’s easiest for me to gauge what codes still work, what they work for, etc. Find one that works for you… and stick with it! That little extra time you spend hunting for the right coupon code could save you hundreds of dollars a month!
Anything you think I missed? Let me know!
Love,
JP
