It’s your favourite time of year…sale shopping. The signs are up, the crowds are out in force and the queues are forming! You want to spend your hard-earned cash but don’t want to blow the budget. Many of you might also be thinking about shopping online on sites like https://price.com/bestsellers instead, so you can still get the best deals but don’t have to queue! Either way, you’re still spending your hard-earned money so you need to know how best to budget!
Are the two compatible? Can you shop and not blow your budget? Follow our tips for some handy advice:
- Special one-day only discount days are a nightmare for the savvy shopper. By limiting the discount time frame it creates a sense of urgency for the shopper. It makes you feel that you need to find a deal just to get the special thrill of the saving! Avoid this type of shopping by asking yourself three important questions: –
- Do I need this item?
- Can I afford it?
- Would I buy it if there was no discount attached?
If your answer is no, to any of the questions, then put the item down and save the money for the original purchase you wanted to make.
- Avoid marketing tricks by writing a list or budget and sticking to it. Set a time limit for each store which allows you less time to wander and pick up extra items you don’t need. Do your research before and know the cheapest price online and offline so you can make a better informed choice when you are in the shop.
- Remember why you had a budget in the first place. The purpose of a budget is to help you to reach your financial goals and to guide you in your financial life. Budgets are not set in stone and should be flexible enough to allow for some freedom in how you spend your money. If your weakness is clothes, allow a small treat every few months for some sale clothes shopping. The old saying rings true “the more you can’t have something, the more you want it” – by budgeting for treats this feeling should be removed.
- Plan your shopping route. Know what shops you want to go to and dress for a long day of shopping. Wear comfortable flat shoes which can accommodate hot, swollen feet, and take water with you. Lunchtime is the busiest time for the high street. Head to the shops early in the morning for the sales and try to beat the crowds.
- Don’t be tempted by a price tag. This truly is the golden rule – only ever buy an item if it is a style which truly flatters you. It may have 50% off, but it is not an investment piece if it just sits in the bottom of your wardrobe never to be worn before being taken to the charity shop. On average British women have 22 items in our wardrobes we never wear so don’t add to this pile. Remember you often can’t get a refund on sales items so there’s no changing your mind afterwards.
This post was written by Your Debt Expert, who provide help for those struggling with their debts.