How To Get The Most Out Of Post-New Years Deals

Consumer spending is down, and retailers need to get rid of merchandise – so there are still deals out there. But everyone else is after bargains too.

Since we spend most of our time shopping, browsing, and combing through stuff online, we’ve figured out some ways to take advantage of the early-January sales.

1. Spend those gift cards
If stores close or you forget about them and wait too long, gift cards can become less valuable or even worthless. Make a list of your gift cards, and decide what you want to put them towards now.

We spent almost $500 at Kmart in about an hour and a half – you can do it.

2. Shop (at least browse) online
We’ve seen shoppers complaining about low sale inventory in stores – probably because stores have been discounting almost all season. To avoid wasting time (and gas), shop online first to see if your item is in stock.

If you find what you're looking for and don't want to wait for it to ship, call your nearest location and ask if you can pick it up there for the online price – some retailers give deeper discounts online.

For example, Old Navy’s up-to-75%-off sale is going on right now – online only.

3. Buy seasonal items; wait on the evergreen ones
Right now, sweaters and snowflake greeting cards are the sorts of items retailers want to get rid of fast. Buy these things before a Nintendo DS, which stores can keep on shelves for a while.

Case in point: The cardigans you'll see in today's Deal of the Day in a couple of hours are up to 70% off.

4. Sign up for e-mail lists
You'll be the first to know about the best sales if you sign up for favorite stores' mailing lists – sometimes you'll even get private coupon codes.
 
We got one from Saks this morning – up to 75% off women’s clothes. Good to know.

 

5. Look for bundling
Retailers who just can't discount any further will start giving deals in packages – save on t-shirts if you buy two or three, or purchase a computer and get a free printer. Ask about these deals, especially if you need to shop in bulk.

Like Banana Republic’s fantastic seamless camis – they’re normally $30, but you save $7.50 on each one if you buy two or more.

6. Let us do the work for you!
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