Just hear those wallets jingling...3 thoughts on shopping retail

Oh yeah, we are in it now. We are up to our kneecaps in Christmas shopping lists that must be executed with efficiency and affordability, all before a non-negotiable deadline of December 25.

Cue the screaming.

Okay, okay. Count to 10 with me, take calm breaths, and chant, "I can do this."



If you take on Black Friday, just know what you're getting into....

This month, we've been taking on holiday shopping, discussing the pros and cons of buying at local stores or online. Last week I gave some reasons you might want to give those locally-owned businesses your business, but let's face it - many of us will head to a major retailer for at least some of our shopping.

So what do you need to be able to take on the big boy retailers and make the most of that money? Well, here's a few thoughts to contemplate as you drive to your shopping mecca of choice...

Consider the store credit card (but don't jump too quickly). When you reach the checkout line and you get asked that question, "Would you like to save (insert amount here) percent on your purchases today?" we all know the checker is going to promote the store credit card. While the discount can be a huge savings (such as, the Target REDcard offers 5 percent off every purchase thereafter), think about the pros and cons. The pros are that store credit cards do often give you more savings and promotions once you are on their mailing list as a cardholder, and having these cards and paying them off is also good for your credit score (see this article at bankrate.com)! However, those cards do carry high interest rates and offer more temptation, so be wary. Perhaps select to open ones only at stores you use frequently, and check to see if a debit option is available.

Do your research. No, seriously. We are a rush, rush society, but we also have more information than ever before at our fingertips through the web. Take fifteen minutes to compare big ticket items, call the retailer or check online to make sure they have the item in stock (many will do a same-day hold), and ask about price matching. This extra few minutes can save you big bucks and hours of store-hopping, so reap the rewards of the Girl (or Boy) Scout motto: Be prepared.

Be an Appy shopper. Bricks and mortar stores are getting tech savvy to keep you coming in the doors, so take advantage of that. A quick search in your phone's app store may provide you with free apps that will save big money. Apps such as the Walmart Savings Catcher does price matching for you (up to 7 days later!) and Target's Cartwheel allows you to quickly organize your offers and utilize them at checkout. Just another way your phone is taking over your life - and saving you money.


Finally, as for Black Friday (just about a week away, people!), shopping incredibly late or early, waiting in lines, or running over people with your shopping cart to get the last Olaf - well, it's really a personal thing whether it's worth it. Me? I'll spend a few extra dollars and enjoy my bed, but for others, this can be one of the exciting points in the season. Just remember it's not about all the stuff you buy - it really is about giving, and whether that means you get the perfect toy or simply give the best gift you can, your generosity will not go unappreciated.

Stay tuned next week as we take on the pros/cons of online shopping in anticipation of Black Monday!