Tag: shopping

Best Times to Buy-Mattresses

by Advantage One, posted in Budgeting, Convenience, Lifestyle, Saving, Tips & Best Practices, Uncategorized

Are you feeling exhausted after another night spent tossing and turning while searching for that perfect spot on your mattress? Back aching from sleeping on a mattress that has long since passed its prime? If this sounds familiar, you may be in the market for a new mattress. But who wants to blow big bucks on a purchase when they don’t have to?

We’ve got the goods for you on mattress-shopping. Here are the best times of year to buy a mattress, as well as general mattress-buying tips to ensure you truly get the biggest bang for your buck. 

Late winter to early spring

New mattress models will hit the warehouses in March or April, so shopping for your new mattress just ahead of these rollouts will help you score a great deal on the older models or floor samples, straight from the showroom. A floor model can save you as much as 50% off the price. To find that elusive, hot deal on an older model mattress, you can ask a store manager when they plan to turn over their showroom to newer models.

Three-day holiday weekends

If you missed the late-winter-to-early-spring mattress season, don’t lose any sleep over it! There are three more times a year when you can snag an awesome deal on a mattress: the weekends of Presidents’ Day, Memorial Day and Labor Day. These three holiday weekends tend to feature major price drops on all kinds of big purchases, and mattresses are no exception. Check retail sites at the beginning of the month for the start of these sale events, as most will run for several weeks. Don’t forget to layer manufacturer coupons with in-store sales for maximum savings. 

Major holidays

Finally, if you’re in desperate need of a new mattress, and the calendar is too far away from any of these sale dates, you can also pick up a great deal on nearly any other major holiday, including Independence Day, New Year’s Day and Black Friday. Discounts generally won’t be as steep as they are during the aforementioned three-day holiday weekends, but you can still find the mattress of (and for) your dreams at a discounted price.

Mattress-buying tips

Whenever you decide to pick up your new mattress, you’ll want to ensure you’re buying the one that best suits your preferences and needs. Follow these tips to get yourself a mattress you won’t regret buying. . 

First, decide if you’d like to buy your mattress in-store or online. There are pros and cons to each choice. Buying a mattress in-store will give you the opportunity to try it out before making your purchase. Most retailers will allow you to do this so you can test the firmness level of the mattress. Buying in-store may also enable you to get your mattress delivered faster, often on the same day you buy it, or on the next day. However, you may have a shorter return policy and/or warranty. 

On the flip side, online purchases offer convenience, lengthy sleep trials of up to 90 days and warranties of 10 years or longer. Be sure to check independent reviews, though, to be sure the mattress you’re buying fits your needs.

Next, look for a retailer that will guarantee its price. Some sellers will refund you the difference if the mattress you bought goes on sale within a specified period of time after your purchase. 

Once you’ve found your mattress, it’s time to negotiate. Yes, you can haggle on the price of your mattress. If the price is still too high, try to get the manager or clerk to bring it down. You may be pleasantly surprised by how much they’re willing to budge.

Finally, pay attention to the price, not just the percentage off. Make sure you check out the manufacturer’s price to be sure you’re getting a good deal. For example, 40% off an exorbitantly expensive mattress might not be that big of a bargain after all. 

It’s time for a new mattress, and we’ve got the goods to help you rest easy without draining your wallet! Follow these tips for the best times to buy a mattress and tips on getting the perfect deal.  

When is a Bargain Not a Bargain?

by Advantage One, posted in Budgeting, Credit, Debit, Lifestyle, Saving, Tips & Best Practices, Uncategorized

Q: I’m a bargain-hunting beast who can’t resist a good sale. But lately, I’ve been wondering: Is every marked-down item a great purchase? When is a bargain not a bargain?

A: You are absolutely right. Not every bargain is actually a bargain. Sometimes, you may actually be worse off buying the marked-down item than giving it a pass. Unfortunately, though, it can be hard to spot the bogus bargains from the genuine finds. Here are five times when a bargain will actually cost you.

  1. When you hadn’t planned on buying the item

If you find a new home speaker system marked down from $399 to $249, you just scored a great deal, right?

Wrong. If you were not out shopping for a new stereo and you hadn’t planned on purchasing one at any time in the future, you haven’t saved $140, you’ve spent an unplanned $249.

Before you buy, ask: Would you buy this if it was not “a great deal”?

  1. When you can’t afford it

If you can’t pay for this item with cash today, it’s likely not a bargain. Blowing money you don’t have on a purchase just because it’s on sale is a great way to break your budget and weaken your financial health. In general, don’t buy it if you can’t pay for it today.  

The one exception here is if you’ve been saving up for a large purchase and you’ve almost reached your goal when it goes on sale. If buying the item early can save you 25% or more off the usual price, and you have most of the funds saved up, it may be a good idea to purchase the item on credit. Pay off most of the bill as soon as you can with the funds you’ve saved and be careful to meet, at least, the minimum monthly payments, using the money you would otherwise have put into savings for the purchase. However, before going this route, run the numbers and make sure the interest you’ll be paying on this item won’t be higher than the amount you save off the purchase price.     

Before you buy, ask: Can I really afford this?

  1. When it’s a faulty product

Sometimes, what’s too good to be true, truly isn’t. If a price is glaringly lower than its market price and you can’t find this item marked down nearly as much through any other retailer, there may be something sketchy about this sale. You can be looking at a knockoff that will look and perform like the cheaply made bogus product it is, or you may be buying someone else’s heavily used item that is being sold as a brand-new product. In the worst-case scenario, you may be dealing with an actual scammer who is after more than your money. If the alleged seller asks you to share your credit card information over the phone  or through an unsecured website, and/or demands that you disclose other personal details, such as your date of birth or Social Security number, you’re likely dealing with a scammer.

Before finalizing a purchase, especially on a heavily marked-down item, take these steps to avoid getting scammed:

  • Research the seller. Look for a street address on their website and for reviews and ratings from previous buyers. 
  • When buying something pricey from a private seller, don’t agree to pay for a purchase before you see the product. Look for structural defects and a manufacturer’s label to see where the item was made. Finally, look for signs of heavy use. 
  • Never wire money or pay via prepaid gift card to an unverified seller. 

Before you buy, ask: Is this a quality product or worthless junk?

  1. If there’s a cheaper alternative

Don’t assume every bargain you encounter is truly being sold at the lowest price you can find. Before you plunk down your money on a large, marked-down purchase, do some research. Look up this item online and see if it’s being sold through other retailers at an even lower price. Depending on the item, you may also find a generic version of the product that does the job well for a fraction of the cost. 

Before you buy, ask: Can I find this at a cheaper price somewhere else?

  1. If it’s not really a bargain

Not every sale is actually a sale. Retailers will often inflate the “original price” they print on a price tag to make it appear as if the current price is a genuine bargain. To spot an actual marked-down product, look for an older price tag that has been topped by a newer tag sporting the sale price. 

Another way a bargain is not a bargain is when you opt for a BOGO deal or “buy one get one at half-price” when you actually only need one of the items. If you find yourself falling for one of these sales, and you know you don’t need the second item, take a step back and ask if you’d still buy this item at this price if you’d only walk away with one of them.

Before you buy, ask: Is this actually a bargain?

When shopping sales, sometimes, you may get more than you bargained for. Use this guide to learn the five times a bargain is not a bargain.

TikTok Inspo: Try to sell us a bargain-priced item that’s not really a bargain. 

Best Times to Buy 2 of 12: Fitness Gear

by Advantage One, posted in Budgeting, Lifestyle, Saving, Tips & Best Practices

The new year is not so new anymore, and those resolutions to get yourself into shape are starting to get old. But don’t let them get stale just yet! Midwinter is actually a fantastic time to stock up on fitness gear at bargain prices. If you miss this season’s sales, you can pick up exercise equipment at a discount several other times a year. 

Here’s when to buy fitness gear throughout the year.

Midwinter

January and February tend to bring with them some of the best deals on fitness equipment that will hit the stores all year. With consumers looking to make good on their New Year’s resolutions, retailers are eager to capitalize on this ambition to make a quick buck. To attract even more customers, they’ll lower their prices – and you can take advantage! Look for discounted fitness gear as soon as you’ve packed away the holiday decor and keep shopping for that exercise equipment through February, when the fitness fervor starts cooling off and retailers want to keep their merchandise moving. 

Pre-summer

Interest in fitness tends to drop after the New Year’s peak, but it will pick up again a few months later as summer looms on the calendar. It’s almost time to hit the beach, and people want to shed those pounds and beef up those muscles before swim season gets here. Retailers will often run sale events on fitness gear before summertime to attract customers.

Early summer

As the weather starts to warm up, and people head outside to get their fitness fix, sales of workout gear start dropping. In an effort to boost business, retailers will slash prices on fitness equipment. Check out your favorite fitness-gear retailers for great deals on exercise equipment early in the season. 

Amazon Prime Day

Amazon Prime Day, which usually falls sometime in mid-July, will bring deep discounts on fitness gear. Be sure to do your research before Prime Day arrives so you can pick up the best deals before they go dead. You can also use a site deal hunter like camelcamelcamel to ensure you don’t miss a deal.

After food-based holidays

Fitness sales and gym memberships tend to peak after holidays in which the celebration centers around food. This includes Thanksgiving and Super Bowl Sunday. All of that eating sends consumers into a desire to try getting back into shape, so retailers want to capitalize on that interest. If you’re looking for a new treadmill, elliptical or smart home gym, the week following these holidays is the perfect time to look for bargain-priced products.

How to save on fitness gear throughout the year

Regardless of when you decide to shop fitness gear, these tips can help you get the biggest bang for your buck:

  • Research your purchase online. Don’t drop a boatload of money on an exercise bike, treadmill or another workout machine without researching it thoroughly. Look for positive ratings and reviews and reports on its durability and functionality.
  • Layer coupons and sales. Look for manufacturer coupons and discounts to layer with retail sale events for maximum savings. 
  • Sign up for email alerts. If you’re in the market for an exercise machine, it’s a good idea to sign up for email alerts at fitness retailers so you can get first dibs on their sales.
  • Be aware of shipping fees. Ordering large, heavy equipment online can mean paying heavy shipping fees. Be sure to pay attention to the shipping costs as you shop so you don’t mistakenly believe you’ve found a great bargain until it’s time to pay those fees.
  • Be aware of return policies. If you aren’t testing out floor models in showrooms before buying an exercise machine, you may end up with a treadmill that’s too large for your living space or an exercise bike that’s impossible to get moving. To avoid disappointment and a colossal waste of money, pay attention to return policies as you shop. 
  • Consider used gear. For big savings on fitness gear, consider purchasing pre-owned equipment on sites like eBay and Craigslist. Just be sure to do your research and not to pay for equipment before you’ve seen it.

Setting up a well-equipped home gym should not require you to bust your budget. Use this guide to know when to buy fitness gear throughout the year. 

How to Play the Retail Game and Get the Biggest Bang for Your Buck

by Advantage One, posted in Budgeting, Lifestyle, Saving, Tips & Best Practices

No one wants to pay full price if there are discounts to be had. But with every retailer having their own trick and the sale calendar changing faster than the seasons, how can you keep up? Lucky for you, we’ve got the 411 on how to save on all your purchases at your favorite retailers. Here’s how to play the retail game and get the biggest bang for your buck.

Ask for a discount at Home Goods

If you find an item at Home Goods, and it’s just slightly damaged, ask for a discount at the register. A barely noticeable scratch can get you a 10% discount off the retail price, and more heavily damaged items can be slashed by up to 28%. You can even ask for a price cut on clearance items that are starting to look like they’ve been living in the store just a bit too long. The managers want to free up floor space and will likely be happy to lower the price a bit on an item that’s been a difficult sell.

Get TJMaxx’s biggest selection of markdowns on Wednesday mornings

If you’re a TJMaxx fan, you’ll want to shop on Wednesday mornings. The biggest markdowns happen Tuesday night after closing, and you’ll have the best pickings first thing on Wednesdays. 

The popular discount retailer also hosts two annual sales; one in July and the other in January. These months mark the shift to the upcoming new season, and all yellow-tagged items you’ll find in the store during July and January are items that are discounted as the current season ends. 

Learn the Target sale schedule

One of the best Target hacks is to take advantage of weekly markdowns on specific product categories. Here’s the general Target markdown schedule: 

  • Monday: Electronics, kids’ clothing, books, baby supplies and accessories
  • Tuesday: Pet supplies, food and women’s clothing
  • Wednesday: Health and beauty products, men’s clothing, furniture and lawn and garden 
  • Thursday: Shoes, toys, home decor, sporting goods, luggage, sleepwear and housewares
  • Friday: Cosmetics, jewelry, auto products and hardware

Leverage Walmart’s price-match guarantee

Make sure you always pay the lowest price at Walmart by leveraging their price-match guarantee. 

For in-store purchases, Walmart will match all Walmart.com base prices for identical items found in a physical Walmart store. You’ll need to inform a Walmart associate about the price-match and the product must be in stock on the website and identical to the in-store product. 

The price-match policy for online purchases is a bit different. If you find a cheaper price on an identical, in-stock product from an online retailer, Walmart will match the price. Here, too, the product you are purchasing must be identical to the lower cost product you’re asking to match in price, including the sizing, model, brand and color. In addition, there is no price-matching on items advertised as sales, marked as clearance, damaged or refurbished, price errors or discounts applied at checkout. 

Shop Sunday, Monday, and Thursday for the best Old Navy deals

It’s always a great day for shopping at Old Navy, but some days are better than others. 

Shop Sunday and Monday for markdowns that roll out every Sunday. Due to a variety of factors, some of these discounts may not be applied until Monday, but waiting that extra day can mean missing out on some fabulous deals. Make your choice and hit the store on either day for guaranteed savings. 

Thursday is “Signage Day” at Old Navy. This means the associates will be changing up the signs and sales as they prepare for the upcoming weekend’s sales. Temporary price cuts will start taking effect on this day. 

It’s also a good idea to learn the retail calendar of Old Navy so you can shop the seasons and save more. Here are the best times to shop for each season at Old Navy:

  • Spring: Apr. 15 – June 1
  • Summer: July 15 – Sept. 1
  • Fall: Oct. 15 – Dec. 1
  • Winter: Jan. 15 – Mar. 1

Shop IKEA’s As-Is section on Mondays

If you love IKEA’s well-priced furniture, you need to know this hack. 

Shop IKEA on Mondays, and enter the store through the exit, instead of the main entrance. This will take you directly to the As-Is section. Here, you’ll find all the returned, damaged and previously displayed items, which are marked as much as 50% off original prices. Like most stores, IKEA gets its biggest influx of shoppers over the weekend, making this section the most expansive on Monday mornings. Start your week off right with some bargain-priced treasures from IKEA.

Shop H&M’s nine seasons

Yes, H&M has nine seasons. To make things simple, the seasons are numbered 1-9. To find out what season the retailer is currently up to, check out the barcode on an item’s price tag. The season is the seventh number in the first line of numbers under the bar code. This number stands alone, apart from the other strings of numbers, making it easy to find. If you see a 2 here, you’ll know this item is from Season 2 at H&M. Check out some other items to see what the store is selling now. If most items are from Season 3, the odds are good that the Season 2 item will be discounted soon. 

Every retailer has its own shtick, but you can learn them to save big. Use this guide to learn how to play the retail game and get the biggest bang for your buck. 

TikTok Inspo: What’s your secret shopping hack? Tell all in a short video.

Best Times to Buy 1 of 12: Furniture

by Advantage One, posted in Budgeting, Lifestyle, Saving, Tips & Best Practices

Whether it’s high time to replace that secondhand Craigslist couch, or you’re desperate to revamp your outdoor space with a new patio set, you’ll want to get the best deal for your money. Why pay full price on new furniture when you don’t have to? Unfortunately, though, knowing when to look for furniture that’s on sale can be tricky. How can you know when it’s truly the best time to buy furniture? 

Lucky for you, we’ve got the answers. We’ve researched the best times to buy furniture so you can pick up the best deals all year round. Here’s when to buy furniture at bargain prices throughout the year.

February

February is a fabulous time for picking up discounts on furniture. The weeks surrounding Presidents Day tend to feature loads of sales on all kinds of furniture. This month is right at the end of winter in the retail calendar, and stores need to clear their inventory to make room for the incoming spring line. To draw customers into buying the going-out-of-season models, they’ll slash prices and host mega sales.

While you’ll find marked-down prices on various furniture pieces in February, indoor furniture will see the steepest discounts this month. Look for sales on sofas, dinette sets, coffee tables and any of the other pieces for furnishing your home. 

Presidents Day weekend sales can hit way before the actual national holiday, so start looking for price cuts early in the month and follow your favorite furniture retailers through the holiday weekend to snag the best bargains. As always, it’s a good idea to compare prices at several retailers before settling on a specific piece from one seller to ensure you get the best possible deals.

August

Late summer is also a fantastic time for furniture finds. As another end-of-season month, August brings overcrowded showrooms with retailers who are eager to make room for incoming merchandise. Cash in on this need by shopping for furniture in August to land discounts you won’t see just one month earlier.

For the best possible deals, look for outdoor furniture in particular during August. Patio sets and lawn chairs are at their highest pricing in mid-summer, but by the time August rolls around, prices will be dropping dramatically. Deck your outdoors in the finest for the tail-end of the season, or store it for a fresh start next year when winter melts into spring. 

While furniture sales tend to peak in August, you can find discounted outdoor furniture from the Fourth of July up until Labor Day, so be sure to keep an eye out for sales all summer long.

Furniture-buying tips

Whether you’ll be hitting up the furniture warehouse deep in the winter or late in the summer, these tips can help you get your money’s worth:

  • Be patient. You’ll need to live with this furniture for years to come, so don’t jump into a purchase without loving it. It’s worth waiting a few weeks, or even a few months, to end up with furniture you adore instead of stuff you ultimately regret buying.
  • Layer coupons and sales. Always check a retailer’s online site for coupons and discounts before visiting their store. 
  • Be wary of junk from overseas. If you found some furniture online that seems to be too good for its price, there may be a reason for that. Pieces from abroad, especially in countries with little or no government oversight on businesses, can really disappoint. The furniture may be cheaply made and not last long, or look entirely different than it appeared online. Before buying from an overseas manufacturer, research the company carefully, and check online reviews to see if they have a return policy.
  • It won’t build itself. When ordering furniture online, remember that it usually comes disassembled and you’ll need to put it together yourself or hire someone to do it for you.
  • Consider buying secondhand. You can save big on furniture and still get a piece you adore by purchasing pre-owned furniture. Check online resale sites, thrift shops and yard sales for bargain-priced treasures.
  • Give your furniture a face-lift. If brand-new furniture is not on your budget right now but you’re getting sick of your old stuff, you can make it look like new by reupholstering. Pick up materials yourself at a sewing supply store and look up tutorials online for how to reupholster like a pro. In no time and for a very modest outlay, your furniture will be looking like new. 

You may need new furniture, but you don’t need to break your budget! Use this guide to know when to shop for furniture throughout the year.

TikTok In

7 Ways to Cut Back on Amazon Spending

by Advantage One, posted in Budgeting, Convenience, Lifestyle, Saving, Tips & Best Practices

Are you constantly blowing your budget on Amazon purchases? It’s just so easy to spend money on Amazon! You can find millions of products, and with the “Buy Now” tab so tantalizingly close, it takes mere seconds to start yet another random item winging its way to your doorstep as your checking account grows just a tad lighter. Short of giving up the most popular online marketplace in the world, how can you cut back on your Amazon spending? 

The good news is, it’s easier than you think. With the right tools and information, you can learn to spend less at the giant online marketplace and get your budget back on track. Here are seven ways to cut back on Amazon spending.

  1. Use the wish list to delay purchases

Get into the habit of placing must-haves on your Amazon wish list instead of choosing the “Buy Now” option or even moving the item into your cart. This way, you’ll have more time to rethink the purchase and determine if you really want to buy it. Whether it’s another kitchen gadget you really don’t need, an accessory your wardrobe could do without or the fourteenth toy bought for your toddler this month, waiting it out helps you fight the urge of the impulse buy. It also helps you practice mindful, responsible spending.

  1. Take “Amazon” out of your budget

If you’re an avid Amazon shopper, you may have given the online market a prominent place in your budget – but you’re much better off not doing so at all. Having an expense category marked “Amazon” only makes it harder to hold back from overspending. Instead, make sure each purchase you complete on Amazon can neatly fit inside another expense category in your budget, such as clothing, food entertainment etc. Of course, as always, be sure to stick to your allotted budget amounts!

  1. Consider “Subscribe and Save” for essentials

For everyday items that you frequently purchase, Amazon’s Subscribe and Save program can be a money-saving marvel. From toilet paper to pet food, this service offers discounts and convenient deliveries on a schedule you choose. By consolidating your regular purchases, you not only save money, but also time and mental energy. Just make sure you keep this system to essentials only.

  1. Turn off 1-Click 

Amazon’s 1-Click feature may be super-convenient, but it also makes it super-easy to overspend. Remove the temptation to impulse-buy by turning off the feature. Just go to the Purchase Preferences page under Settings in your account and choose to disable 1-Click buying. You’ll now need to take a few more steps every time you make an order on Amazon, giving you more time to rethink the purchase and say no. 

  1. Consider alternatives

While Amazon still holds the prize as the most popular online marketplace in the world, Walmart Plus is quickly becoming a formidable competitor. Launched in 2021, the service has already attracted 25 million subscribers – and for good reason. 

Here’s how the two shopping experiences measure up:

FeaturesAmazon PrimeWalmart Plus
Monthly Fee$14.99$12.95
Annual Fee$139$98
Free ShippingYesYes
Streaming PrivilegesExclusive Amazon Prime streamingParamount Plus subscription
Free Trial30 days30 days
Grocery Delivery$150 minimum$35 minimum
Additional PerksFree cloud storage, release-day delivery, prescription discountsGas discounts, shopping rewards, from-home returns

Take some time to review the features in each plan to ensure you are making the right choice for your needs. You may also decide you don’t need any of these subscriptions at all. Keep in mind that the average Prime member tends to spend far more on Amazon than nonmembers, likely in an effort to justify the subscription price. 

  1. Comparison shop

Don’t assume Amazon always has the best price on every item you can possibly want to purchase. Before making a purchase, do a quick online search to see if you can find the same item at a better deal from another vendor. 

  1. Use tracking tools

Prices on Amazon are known to fluctuate. To capitalize on these fluctuations and grab the best deals, consider using price tracking tools or browser extensions. These tools alert you when the price of a product you’re interested in drops, ensuring you make purchases when they’re at their most budget-friendly.

Yes, you can cut down on your Amazon purchases! Use the tips outlined here to curb your Amazon spending and put your budget in a better place. 

How Can I Beat Inflation and Save on Back-to-School Shopping?

by Advantage One, posted in Budgeting, Convenience, Lifestyle, Tips & Best Practices, Uncategorized

Q: With prices soaring and expenses mounting, I’m worried that back-to-school shopping will kill my budget and push me into debt. How can I beat inflation and save on back-to-school shopping?

A: While you may need to adjust your annual back-to-school budget to account for inflation, there are ways to save on these costs and keep your budget intact. Follow these tips to beat inflation this back-to-school season.

Shop with a budget

Your first step toward saving on back-to-school shopping is to create a budget for this shopping season. Determine how much you can afford to spend and allocate specific amounts for different categories such as clothing, supplies and electronics. Having a budget will help you stay focused and avoid impulse purchases.

Take inventory 

Before hitting the stores, take inventory of what you already have at home. Check your kids’ closets, drawers and study areas for supplies and clothing that can be reused or repurposed for the coming school year. This will give you a clear idea of what you really need to buy and help prevent unnecessary spending.

Plan ahead

Start shopping early and take advantage of sales throughout the summer. Watch for clearance sales, promotions and discounts. By planning ahead, you can secure better deals while avoiding the rush and price hikes that happen closer to the start of the school year. You can also take advantage of your state’s tax-free weekend for bigger savings.

Buy generic

Don’t hesitate to reach for generic brands when purchasing school supplies for your kids. Store brands, like Walmart, or Target’s Up & Up, are consistently cheaper than name brands without compromising on quality. 

Shop without your kids

While your kids may savor the experience of choosing their own school supplies for the coming year, shopping with kids is one of the best ways to kill a budget. Kids always have their own ideas of what’s best to spend money on, and their opinions may not necessarily align with yours–or with your budget. If your kids aren’t thrilled about you doing all the shopping on your own, compromise by allowing them to join you on one or two shopping trips, for example, when you shop for shoes and backpacks, but do the rest on your own. 

Think secondhand

Consider purchasing used textbooks, clothing and electronics. You can find gently used items at significantly lower prices on secondhand websites like ThredUp, and at thrift stores like Goodwill. 

When shopping secondhand, it’s important to ensure that items are in good condition and meet your requirements before making the purchase. Also, when buying a secondhand (or any) item online, only use secure platforms and ask to see the item, or a photo of the item, before finalizing the transaction. Finally, use a payment method with purchase protection, such as a credit card, so you can always reclaim your funds should the item turn out different than expected. 

Use discounts and coupons

Before you shop, look for coupons, promotional codes and student discounts to bring down the prices of the items you need to buy. Many retailers offer exclusive discounts to students and teachers. Sign up for newsletters or loyalty programs to receive updates on special offers. You can also use a discount-finder app or browser extension, like Rakuten or Honey to scour the web and automatically pull up any coupons for the items you need. Additionally, check with your child’s school or local community organizations for any available discounts or programs.

Buy in bulk

When possible and it makes sense, purchase supplies in bulk. This is particularly useful for items that are commonly used throughout the school year, like notebooks, pencils and paper. Buying in bulk often comes with a lower per-unit cost, providing long-term savings that will pay off all year long.

Prioritize quality and durability

While it may be tempting to opt for cheaper alternatives, prioritize quality and durability. Investing in well-made products can save you money in the long run, as they are less likely to require replacements later.

Prices are soaring, but that doesn’t mean you need to fall into debt when back-to-school shopping. Follow the tips outlined here to beat inflation and save.

TikTok Inspo: How are you going to beat inflation this back-to-school season? Share your best tips in a short video. 

What to Buy and What to Skip in December

by Advantage One, posted in Budgeting, Credit, Debit, Lifestyle, Saving, Tips & Best Practices, Uncategorized

December blows in at the peak of the holiday shopping frenzy, and then it tiptoes out with the end of the year and post-holiday calm. Black Friday deals are long over, and there are no major shopping holidays this month, but you can still find a fabulous deal before and after the holidays. So, whether you’re finishing up your holiday shopping or looking for year-end bargains in any category this month, we’ve got you covered. 

Here’s what to buy and what to skip in December. 

Buy: Electronics

If you missed the Black Friday sales on electronics, you can still cash in on some incredible savings. Many retailers will keep the leftovers from November’s sales marked down through the end of the month. Look for discounted electronics at big box stores, online retailers and directly from manufacturers.

Skip: Winter clothing

It’s still too early in the season to find any real discounts on clothing. If you can wait until retailers start slashing prices on cold-weather wear after the holidays to drum up some business, you’ll save big on winter wardrobe essentials. 

Buy: Toys

As the year draws to a close, you’ll start seeing steep discounts on toys and games from retailers that are looking to clear the season’s inventory before the holidays. If you can handle the stress of last-minute shopping, the week or two leading up to Christmas can be the perfect time to pick up some budget-friendly stocking stuffers for the special little someones in your life.

Skip: Fitness equipment

Trying to slim down before the holidays? Hold off a bit on purchasing exercise equipment and you can save big. Soon, fitness gear and clothing, as well as gym memberships, will drop in price as consumers commence with the annual New Year’s resolutions fitness craze. Until then, you can enjoy brisk walks and runs around the neighborhood at no cost.

Buy: Champagne

Welcome the new year with the pop of your favorite champagne, all at a price that doesn’t break the budget. Liquor sellers will be competing for your business this time of year, and prices on the celebratory beverage will plunge as New Year’s draws near. Take advantage by stocking up on your favorite bubbly at a bargain price.

Skip: Furniture and bedding

This isn’t the time of year to upgrade your household and give your bedroom a facelift. Furniture and bedding will be sold at full price at most retailers this month. Instead, wait for the January white sales to purchase the same items at discounted prices. For even deeper discounts, shop for furniture and other home goods at fantastic prices at Presidents Day sale events in February.

Buy: Christmas decorations

Prepare to deck the halls without spending a bundle. You’ll find holiday decor, wrapping paper, tree ornaments and more slashed up to 50% in price the day after Christmas. With prices like these, it’s not too early to think about next year’s holiday season! Just keep

everything well-wrapped and store in a dry place. Come next year, you’ll be ahead of the holiday shopping before the season even starts. 

Buy: Gift cards

Gift cards are the perfect antidote to out-of-control inflation. They’re always appreciated, and you won’t feel like you’re spending a ton on a gift that’s not really worth the price. Best of all, you can find discounted gift cards all through December on sites like GiftCardGranny, CardCash and through private sellers listing on sites like Craigslist. Some sites will even let you customize the card with a personalized message for the recipient. 

The year is drawing to an end, but the savings on some items is just beginning. Use the tips outlined here for knowing what to buy and what to skip in December. 

Your Turn: Have you picked up any great buys in December? Tell us about them in the comments!

How Can I Save on Holiday Shopping?

by Advantage One, posted in Budgeting, Credit, Lifestyle, Saving, Tips & Best Practices

Q: I’m always worried about money during the holiday season, and with inflation soaring, I’m more stressed than ever. How can I save on holiday shopping this year?

A: If you’re worried about making it through the holiday shopping season in the midst of record inflation, you’re not alone. A recent survey shows that 59% of American shoppers are stressed about buying holiday gifts this season due to higher prices. However, with some careful planning and budgeting, you can enjoy stress-free holiday shopping. Here are seven easy ways you can save during this holiday season.

  1. Shop early

It’s always a good idea to do your shopping early in the season so pressure and crowds don’t cause you to make decisions you’ll come to regret. This year, experts are urging shoppers to hit stores earlier than normally planned so they can take advantage of early season sales. Many big-box stores are struggling with a supply surplus thanks to an inflation-triggered decline in demand. This will likely lead to sales events to make room for more up-to-date inventory. You can take advantage of this surplus by shopping these sales and saving on your holiday purchases.

2. Set a budget

Budgets are for holidays, too. Sit down before doing your shopping to build a reasonable budget for your holiday shopping. Factor in current prices when working out your budget. Of course, this is only half the work – you’ll need to stick to that budget for it to be worth anything. Make this easier by allocating a specific amount for every gift, shopping with cash and/or reviewing your budget frequently as you do your holiday shopping. 

  1. Shop with a list

Instead of hitting the stores blindly, create a list of every gift you plan to buy for friends and family. You can browse online stores for inspiration, but resolve not to start shopping until you have a complete list. You’ll be far more likely to stay within budget when your purchases are pre-planned. 

  1. Leave some last-minute shopping for Green Monday

While it’s best to do the bulk of your shopping early in the season, you can leave some last-minute gift-shopping for Green Monday, which falls on Dec. 14 this year. This is when retailers make their final pre-holiday markdowns. Be prepared for slim pickings, though, so don’t leave any specific gifts for this late in the season. 

  1. Think outside the box when planning your gifts

If ever there was a holiday season to get creative with your gifting, this is it. Retail inventories are full of products that were backed up during the post-pandemic supply-chain disaster. Think furniture, home decor and more. While much of this may not make for typical holiday gifts, there’s no real reason you can’t delight a loved one with a new office chair, exercise bike or coffee organizing station.

  1. Give gift cards

Protect your gift list against inflation by giving gift cards. You can find discounted cards on sites like GiftCardGranny and CardCash, or use cash-back apps to earn them at no cost. Gift cards are easy to shop for, easy to budget for and always appreciated by the receiver.

  1. Use apps to save

In 2022, there are so many apps that can help you spend less on your shopping, and even put money back in your pocket. Here are some money-saving apps you might want to download ahead of this shopping season:

  • Drop. This free app allows you to link your credit and/or debit card, and shop directly from the app at 300+ retailers. Earn points back on every purchase. Use your points to purchase gift cards.
  • Honey. Why pay full price when you can get the same item for less? This coupon-scanning app will automatically find promo codes and coupons for items you’re searching for so you can save on your shopping. You can earn points on purchases made through the app, too.
  • Fetch. Earn points on grocery purchases by scanning your receipts after you shop. Redeem points for gift cards.
  • Ibotta. Get cash back for your purchases by scanning your receipts with this app. Use for online purchases, and by linking store loyalty cards for in-store purchases, too. Redeem points for cash or gift cards. 

Holiday shopping may be a race against inflation this year, but with a little pre-planning, you can complete your shopping with your budget intact. Use the money-saving tips outlined here to get started.

Your Turn: How do you plan to save on holiday shopping this year? Share your best tips and hacks in the comments. 

What to Buy and What to Skip in November

by Advantage One, posted in Lifestyle, Saving, Tips & Best Practices, Uncategorized

The biggest shopping month of the year is here! With Black Friday deals running for as long as the entire month of November and Cyber Monday giving the internet a chance at boasting super-low deals, too, ‘tis truly the season to save. Before you start charging up a storm, though, keep in mind that not every Black Friday deal is really all it’s cracked up to be. Some purchases should wait until December – or until after the holidays have passed. Lucky for you, we have the info you need to score the best deals this month (and beyond). Here’s what to buy and what to skip in November. 

Buy: Headphones and audio gear

Tune into your favorite holiday jams with a pair of state-of-the-art headphones bought at a bargain price. Music gear is marked down in November, with sales on all things audio beginning as early as late October and lasting through Black Friday near the end of November.

Skip: Winter clothing

The winter shopping season is just getting started, so you won’t be seeing deals on winter clothing just yet. This applies to winter outerwear, too; November is not the best time to shop for that overstuffed parka or warm woolen overcoat. Unless you absolutely need it now, wait another month or two before stocking up on cold-weather wear for steep savings.

Buy: Personal care items

Look your best this season without spending a fortune. You’ll find personal care and grooming items like razors, hair dryers, electronic toothbrushes and more marked down in November. Treat yourself to new products for the holidays, or stock up on favorites you can use all year. 

Skip: Toys

You may be eager to cross some gifts for little ones off your list, but you won’t find many deals on toys this month. Instead, wait until the calendar gets closer to the holidays to purchase toys and games at lower prices. Of course, you’ll risk finding some of the hotter toys of the season all sold out if you choose to wait, but for big savings on classic playthings that never go out of style, it’s best to wait.

Buy: Electronics

Marked-down electronics give Black Friday its fabulous name. You can check out stores and sites of major retailers for discounts on large and small electronics from Nov. 1 through the end of the month, though the best prices will only be available at Black Friday sale events. If you miss out on these marked-down prices, you can also find Cyber Monday electronics deals online. 

Skip: Jewelry

This is not the month for sparkly purchases, as most diamond and gold jewelry will be retailing at full price in November. Choose another holiday gift for a special someone and wait until the second half of February, when jewelry prices plunge up to 80%, to buy a beautiful new piece that you can save for a celebration, holiday or a just-because gift.

Buy: Gaming consoles

Major retailers are competing for gamer bucks this month, so expect to see the best bundles with the hottest games at bargain prices in November. Surprise the gamer in your life with a new console and/or trending games, or indulge your own hobby with new gear and games. 

Buy: Small home appliances 

If you need a new slow cooker, you want to spring for an Instant Pot or you need another kind of small home appliance, this is the month to buy it. Black Friday famously features super-low deals on small home appliances for the kitchen and beyond. Pick up a new vacuum cleaner, microwave, food processor and more at slashed prices in November!

Black Friday sales notwithstanding, there are some products you’d be best off skipping this month, but some you’ll want to grab for steep savings. Use this guide to learn what to buy and what to skip in November.

Your Turn: Have you picked up any fabulous deals in November? Tell us about it in the comments.