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If you're trying to save money while holiday shopping, heading to the outlets might seem like a good plan. But watch out: Outlet malls can make even the most careful shopper overspend, especially during the holiday season. The big appeal is that everything's on sale, and the discounts get even better around the holidays. But don't just assume every sweater, pair of slacks, or kitchen gadget is a bargain. We checked out the outlets and found good deals on a lot of stuff, but some things were actually cheaper at regular stores. To score the best discounts, try these tips:
Schedule Your Trip Properly
Getting to an outlet mall can be a bit of a trek. If you can, grab a coffee to-go and hit the road early. The crowds are smaller and the merchandise is less picked over in the morning. Most folks go to outlets between noon and 3 p.m. If mornings aren't your thing, try going in the early evening. Another good idea: Shop midweek if you can. Tuesday to Thursday is usually the quietest time at outlets. Weekends are nuts, especially around holidays. Do some prep work. It'll help you stay sane once you get there. Check the outlet's website the night before to see the hours its open. Look at the outlet's map to find the best parking spot, and park close to the stores you want to hit so you can get in and out before the crowds (and checkout lines) get crazy.
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Opt for Loyalty Programs
See if the malls near you have rewards programs. You can get exclusive, personalized coupons and sale offers. A one-time fee gets you coupon books you can access on your phone. You also get free gift cards once you hit certain spending levels, exclusive web offers, and other perks. While you're on the website, look for printable coupons. Some centers charge for a book of coupons on-site, but you can usually download it for free if you've signed up for the rewards program.
Browse the Sales Rack
Just like in regular stores, the best deals are usually on the sale racks at the back of outlets. But before you grab anything, make sure it's actually a good bargain. There are shopping apps that can help you find cheaper deals elsewhere. Sometimes, stuff like clothes are made just for outlet malls, so you might not be able to compare prices on everything. Manufacturers often change a few details (like cheaper buttons, fewer stitches, or thinner materials) to sell them for less at outlets. The good news is, we didn't find many seconds, irregulars, or returns when we shopped at outlet malls recently. Still, it's smart to check out the goods before you head to the register to make sure they're in good shape.
Try to Shop Online
Outlet shoppers used to have to go in person to get deals, but now more outlets like J. Crew Factory, Gap Factory, and Saks Off 5th are selling their stuff online too. Even Amazon has overstock deals on its Amazon Outlet page, with discounts on everything from clothes to gardening supplies. That said, Woroch still likes shopping at physical outlet stores better because they usually have bigger discounts than what you'd find online.
Find Out How Things Fit
With strict return policies, its important to make sure you like how things fit before you buy them at outlet stores. Sometimes items end up at outlets because of a manufacturing mistake, like a misplaced button or pocket. Plus, many retailers make lower-quality items just for their outlet stores, so some materials might be thinner or a jacket might not have a full lining. Trying things on in the store can help you spot any small issues or defects, so you can decide if the purchase is worth it.
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Read the Return Policies
Outlet stores usually have stricter return policies than regular retail stores. This could mean a shorter return window or that some (or all) items are a final sale only, meaning you can't return them later. Even if the store has a good return policy, think about the location. If you're shopping at an outlet center while on vacation or far from home, returning items could be tricky. The biggest issue with outlet shopping is that there are so many stores and brands, making it easy to overspend, especially if you went out of your way to get there. You don't want to buy stuff you don't need, especially if you can't return it.
Go to an Outlet Mall
While you can find deals at stand-alone outlet stores, going to an outlet mall means you can score deals from different retailers and brands in one trip. Plus, these shopping centers often have extra promotions or deals for shoppers. Some outlet malls, for example, offer free coupon books at the visitor center or have loyalty programs that give extra discounts at some stores.
Avail the Benefits of Your AAA Membership
Check out the discounts your card can get you: we've gotten offers for 20 percent off at Reebok Outlet Stores, 10 percent off at Gap Outlets, 10 percent off deals at Banana Republic Factory Stores, and more. At the 57 Premium Outlet Centers in the U.S., show your AAA card at the Information Center to get a free VIP Coupon Book; the same goes for Tanger's locations, which also give you a $5 gift card from Shopper Services for your next visit to another Tanger center. Jersey Shore Premium Outlets even had AAA Member Appreciation Day with gift bags for the first 50 members and extra savings for all members. Your AARP card or military ID might also get you discounts; check the outlet center's website before you go to see what extra savings you can get.
Score Big with Coupons
Who would've thought? Most outlets knock off at least 25 to 65 percent of retail prices, but you can also snag some extra savings with coupons cha-ching! Check out the outlet center's website (tangeroutlet.com and premiumoutlets.com are good ones) to print out some sweet deals for your favorite stores. Plus, by signing up for the outlet store's email list, you can get more awesome deals to tempt you back like 25 percent off your whole purchase, and an extra 10 percent if you bring in the printed email.
Conclusion
Saving money at outlet stores is all about strategy and awareness. By doing your research, shopping during sales, and utilizing loyalty programs, you can significantly cut down on costs. Always keep an eye out for additional discounts and be mindful of the quality of the items you're purchasing. With these tips in mind, you can make the most of your outlet shopping experience, ensuring that you get the best deals without compromising on quality. Happy shopping and happy saving!
