Searching for better deals has become the latest trend among shoppers across the globe. And why not? Few things are as satisfying as getting something at a fraction of its cost or scoring a bargain — even if it means saving a few bucks.
Today, the need for scoring a major discount has become even more significant because of the recent high cost of living. People pay more for food, entertainment, travel, accommodation, and more. But with bargain hunting, you may still buy what you need at a significantly lower price or maintain your lifestyle without spending more.
This article delves deeper into bargain hunting, its advantages, and how to become a master bargain hunter.
What is bargain hunting?
As the name suggests, a bargain hunter usually looks for quality goods and services because they are offered at a discount.
It’s worth noting that bargain hunting is not about being a cheapskate. Essentially, you are looking for products at a discount (whether from a renowned brand or not). It’s about becoming adept at finding and honing strategies that lead you to hidden treasures, from resale stores to yard sales and thrift stores.
Advantages of bargain hunting include stretching your money further, getting more for less, and avoiding debt. Better yet, saving money feels good, and you feel less guilty when you spend something on yourself without blowing your budget.
Tips to start bargain hunting
Don’t buy stuff just because they have a discount
According to professional bargain hunters, the rule of thumb is “A bargain isn’t a bargain if you don’t need it and won’t use it!”
Refrain from filling your cart with things just because they have been marked down, only to store them in your house forever. Accumulating many cheap buys quickly becomes expensive. You may soon find yourself back into the debt you are trying to climb out of. Also, it will lead to more clutter in your home.
Buy used instead of new
Undoubtedly, there’s a certain satisfaction and pride in owning brand-new stuff. But you can hit a goldmine when buying used things at an affordable price.
In the age of choices and continuous consumption, people eliminate their “new” things for newer or the latest stuff. So before shopping for something new, look around for “like new” used stuff. Visit consignment places, thrift stores, resales, Goodwill, Facebook Marketplace, or any other online platform to find these items.
Compare prices
We usually feel cheated if we buy something for a specific price and then find it sold elsewhere for a significantly lower cost. So, familiarity with prices can be one of the best tools in a bargain hunter’s arsenal.
If you buy something regularly, it’s easy to know whether you scored a bounty. But you should do comprehensive research and compare prices for things you don’t buy frequently, such as mattresses or furniture.
Also, avoid focusing on the discount alone. A shop offering a 30 percent discount on an item may be cheaper than one offering 50 percent, depending on the initial cost of that item.
Signup for newsletters for items you love
Newsletters inform you about any upcoming deals or discounts from your favorite brands. Whether you want affordable apparel or skin care, you get notifications in your email when any deals are launched. You can create a folder within your inbox specifically for these newsletters so you don’t miss these deals.
Join survey sites or enter competitions
Some companies, such as UpVoice, have surveys that give you freebies, gift cards, or points that you can redeem to get free items. All you need is to share your thoughts about their product.
That said, most surveys today don’t pay much, and you shouldn’t rely on them as your sole source of income.
Alternatively, you can enter competitions or draws and hope to win gifts, shopping vouchers, or money.
Set your budget
You may be getting things at a fraction of their price, but limiting your willingness to spend is essential. Luckily, sites like Camelcamelcamel can help you track the price of whatever item you want on Amazon. Once it reaches your set budget, they will notify you.
Conclusion
Bargain hunting can be a fantastic way to find your desired item, reduce your budget, and stretch your finances. As mentioned, it’s not about being cheap or going for mediocre products; it’s about finding quality items at a discount.
Do your research, compare prices, set your budget, and don’t buy stuff you don’t need just because they have a discount. Also, ensure you check the items well and are well-versed with the store’s return policy. With time, you will enjoy most of your desired products and services without breaking the bank.
