11 Mistakes We Make When Shopping at Target

When we are talking about convenience, Target has it in spades. Millions of consumers shop there for a reason.

But did you know it’s possible to make mistakes when you shop there?

It’s true. If you’re looking for the best way to maximize your shopping trip — and your savings — you’ll want to check out our top 11 tips.

1. Not Downloading the App

There’s an app for that. Literally. If you’re a regular Target shopper, there are so many perks to having the app, including Circle, which gives you access to special deals you might not see advertised in-store or in an ad. Plus, you get access to daily deals when they run them.

2. Not Using Red Card

Target makes it really easy to save even more money by offering the Red Card. Using the debit or credit version saves you an additional 5% whether you shop in-store or online. It even applies to clearance items.

Even if you don’t want an extra credit card and only want its debit card, which is linked to your personal bank account, you’d be remiss not to take advantage of the savings. Additional bonuses? Free shipping and additional offers are available in the app to save money. Plus, if there’s an in-house Starbucks, you can get your coffee 5% off, too.

3. Buying Everything at Target

Target is great for finding good deals on lots of items, but there are many you can buy elsewhere at an even lower cost. This is one of those situations where you have to be cognizant of what deals other stores might have.

Instead of making Target your one-stop shop, and we know how easy that is, if you’re looking to save a buck, definitely look at the fliers for other stores around, too. Your wallet will thank you. That leads us to the next point.

4. Overspending

Sound familiar? In many social circles, there’s a running joke that someone went to Target for a $250 gallon of milk. Since the variety in the store — especially in a Super Target — is so vast, it’s easy to get carried away. You might run in for one or two things, but unless you’re on a mission to get in and get out, it’s very likely you’ll end up spending more than you planned.

To combat these impulses, bring a list with you. The quiet part that we unfortunately have to say out loud? Only buy the things on that list.

5. Not Using Pick-up Services

This method may not save you additional money, but it’ll certainly save you a bit of time. If you’re in a hurry or don’t have much time to spare, you have another option. Have Target employees gather your items and then you pick them up when they’re ready.

You have two options for pick-up at most locations. You can go to the customer service desk for in-store pick-up or use the app for the drive-up option. The drive-up is usually a better option because sometimes, the customer service desk can have a long line, leading to more of a wait.

6. Avoiding (Some) Store Brands

Somewhere along the way, store brands got stuck with a bad label. They were deemed inferior to the more expensive brand names on the shelves. A little secret? Those store brand items are, in fact, made by the brand names or using the same formulas.

Next time you want to save a few dollars, consider buying Up & Up, Market Pantry, Good & Gather, or Kindfull items if they are lower in cost (that’s not always the case, so definitely price check). Saving a few dollars here and there using this method can add up in the long run.

7. Not Couponing

While the days of extreme couponing may be over, that doesn’t mean they’ve gone out of existence. Many manufacturers offer cents or dollars off certain products. If you combine that with a Target deal or Target coupon, you can get even more savings.

Speaking of coupons, even if the manufacturer doesn’t have one available, you might still be able to save money. Download the Target app and see what deals they’re offering. Sometimes, you can earn gift cards from $5 to $15 for spending a specific amount in a single category.

8. Not Taking Advantage of Price Match

One of the best things about shopping at Target is you can price match. If you find a product cheaper at another store, you can bring the flier to Target and they will lower the price accordingly.

The company will also match prices from its online store, so feel free to show the cashier the price difference. Plus, the guarantee is good for up to 14 days after you shop, so be diligent in price-watching those weekly sales.

9. Not Reviewing the Weekly Ads

Speaking of weekly sales… this is the place to find them. Target may not always send out a weekly ad in your area, but you can definitely find it online or in the app.

Paying attention to those weekly deals can certainly save you some dollars. It’s updated every Sunday, so check it out before you shop.

10. Overlooking Clearance Items

One of the best ways to save money and get items for a steep discount is to check the clearance section. In Target, it’s like a treasure hunt.

The stores have end caps in nearly every section stocked with clearance items that you may or may not be looking for. So if you’re looking for a deal, don’t skip these.

11. Not Calling Ahead

When the holidays roll around, there’s often a few large-ticket items that tend to sell out really quickly. Oftentimes, shoppers will take their chances and see if the items are available with a quick trip to the store, but did you know you could call ahead?

Calling your local store or stores to see if they have the coveted item in stock could save you not only time, but frustration, too.