Plan ahead
First of all, plan on how to get there. Outlet shopping malls are usually outside town and require a bit of driving. Make sure you fill up the seats in the car to maximize savings for all passengers when you share the costs for gas. Also familiarize yourself with the mall. Plan your visit of which stores you want to hit. Some malls are very big and require a lot of walking!
Also make sure, you know what you want to buy. You don't want to get carried away by the offers and buy stuff you do not really need. Use cash or a gift card to control your spending. Check the prices for your desired products online so you know when a deal is a deal. Sometimes you may find a cheaper price online.
Next, check the outlet's Facebook or Twitter feed. There may be special discounts or coupons available.
Get up early
Most outlet stores stock up in the morning and have the biggest selection after they opened their doors. Also a better variety or more sizes will be available. Another advantage will be - you are avoiding the crowds, especially around the holidays. To get the best deals, you should go after regular retail stores get their new seasonal merchandise and need to get rid of last season's stuff. Timing is key, when it comes to outlet shopping.
Check for coupons
Once you arrive at the mall check if there is any coupons available. Some outlet centers charge $5 or $10 but it may be well worth it as it can maximize your savings, especially when you shop for the whole family. Many have you sign up for a "VIP Club" and you will get a free coupon book.
Always check the label
Some items in outlet stores are of lesser quality, have minor faults or may have been made exclusively for outlet stores. These will not be the same products you will get in the high street stores. For example, more than 50% of products sold in the "Saks off 5th" are made exclusively for the Saks outlet stores.
Only buy what you need!
Don't get carried away by the incentives to buy in bulk, like "Buy 2 get the 3rd item half price". Only buy what you were planning on. Otherwise you may get carried away easily and spend much more than you hoped for.
Also, make sure you read the refund and exchange policies. It may differ from store to store. If you follow these simple steps, your trip to the outlet will be filled with fun and savings!
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