While some people may consider shopping a worthwhile hobby, others may see it as a necessary but time-consuming chore. Buying things at the store is a simple errand that can quickly turn into a hassle, one that involves driving around in search of parking, navigating crowded aisles, and enduring long checkout lines. On top of that, shopping can take a serious toll on your wallet. With tempting impulse buys and ever-rising prices, it’s all too easy to spend more than planned, leaving your budget uncomfortably tight.
Although these challenges can make shopping feel overwhelming, they’re not impossible to overcome. Adopting the right strategies can help you save both time and money, turning a frustrating task into an efficient and enjoyable experience. This article will show you simple yet effective ways to make your shopping trips faster, smarter, and more budget-friendly.
Pay Using a Rewards Credit Card
Some credit cards come with perks that can help you save money and earn rewards on your everyday purchases. These rewards often come in the form of cashback rewards or points, which can be redeemed for discounts or future purchases. This means that your everyday purchases can be working for you, offering savings or benefits that you wouldn’t otherwise enjoy. In addition to earning rewards, some credit cards may also occasionally provide special credit card promo offers in the form of limited-time discounts and bonus points on specific purchases. These perks can significantly reduce your overall expenses, making it an ideal strategy for both frequent and occasional shoppers.
The key to maximizing these rewards is to use a credit card that aligns with your lifestyle and offers higher rewards for categories you frequently shop in. This way, you can earn more points or cashback on purchases you’re already making, increasing your savings over time. If you’re a Landers Superstore member, for instance, the Landers Cashback Everywhere Credit Card by Maya can make your shopping experience even more fulfilling. This card gives up to 5% cashback at Landers, 2% on dining spends, and 1% on all other qualified transactions*. Strategically incorporating the Landers Cashback Everywhere Credit Card into your grocery runs Landers, if you’re already a member, can help you get the most out of your purchases.
Buy Store-Branded Items
Many Filipino consumers have this outdated belief that items made by big-name multinational brands are superior in quality, but in most cases, store-branded or generic products offer the same value at a fraction of the cost. These products are often manufactured by the same companies that produce the more popular, more expensive versions, meaning their quality is virtually identical. The biggest difference store-branded items have is the lack of expensive marketing and packaging. This factor enables stores to pass on the savings to customers. That said, buying store-branded products is a simple yet effective strategy that requires minimal effort but yields noticeable results.
Go Online Shopping
Shopping online isn’t only convenient but also an effective way to save both time and money. With just a few clicks, you can compare prices from different retailers, find exclusive online discounts, use digital coupons, and avoid the hassle of traffic and long lines. Many online stores also offer free shipping, as well as special promotions and limited-time sales that you may not find in physical stores. Plus, you’ll have an easier time tracking your spending and sticking to your budget since most online platforms provide a clear breakdown of your total cost before you check out.
Familiarize Yourself with the Store’s Layout
If you prefer to shop in physical stores, knowing the layout of the stores you frequent can make your trips more efficient. Being familiar with where products are located helps you navigate aisles faster and avoid unnecessary detours. This not only saves you time but also reduces the chances of impulse buying, as many stores strategically place tempting, high-profit-margin items at eye level or near checkout counters.
Shop During the Right Day and Time
Timing your shopping trips wisely can make a big difference in both your budget and your experience. Shopping during off-peak hours, such as weekday mornings or late evenings, for instance, can help you avoid crowded aisles and long lines. This not only makes the shopping experience more pleasant but also allows you to move through the store more quickly, saving you valuable time.
Some stores also offer special discounts on certain days of the week. These promos, such as weekly sales or flash deals, are often targeted to attract customers during slower shopping periods. Planning your shopping trips around these offers lets you take advantage of discounts and promos that greatly reduce your overall spending.
Shopping doesn’t have to be a stressful or costly task. With the right approach, you can transform your shopping habits into a more efficient and budget-friendly experience. Adopting these smart strategies into your shopping routine can help you save both time and money, making every trip a more enjoyable and rewarding one.
*Transactions that don’t qualify include: cash in, cash advance, quasi cash purchases, casinos and gambling, fuel, supermarket, pharmaceuticals, utilities, telco, and government.
