Memorial Day, observed on the last Monday of May, is a time to honor military members who gave their lives in service to the country. It has also become one of the biggest shopping weekends in the United States. Retailers across the country slash prices and offer some of the year’s best deals, especially on spring merchandise, home goods, and summer items. Knowing how to navigate these sales can help you score some major discounts. Here’s how you can make the most out of Memorial Day shopping.
Understanding Memorial Day Sales
Memorial Day sales typically begin a week before the actual holiday and often last until a few days after. Retailers are keen to clear out old stock before the summer season fully kicks in, making it an excellent time for consumers to purchase items at reduced prices. Categories that generally see significant markdowns include appliances, mattresses, furniture, outdoor items, and clothing.
Prepare in Advance
To truly capitalize on Memorial Day sales, preparation is key. Make a list of items you need or want and set a budget for each. This not only helps in prioritizing your purchases but also in avoiding impulse buying. Additionally, research the usual prices of these items. This knowledge can help you recognize a genuine deal when you see one.
Compare Prices Online
Before hitting the stores or making purchases online, use price-comparison tools to ensure you’re getting the best deal. Various websites allow you to compare prices across multiple retailers instantly. This is particularly useful for big-ticket items like appliances and electronics, on which price variations can be significant between different stores.
Check for Coupons and Promo Codes
While Memorial Day sales are already marked down, additional savings can often be found through coupons and promo codes. Before finalizing any purchase, check for extra discounts. Websites like RetailMeNot and Coupons.com often list promotional codes that can be applied at checkout. Furthermore, signing up for retailer newsletters can be a smart move as many companies send out exclusive coupons to their email subscribers.
Shop Early in the Sale
The early bird does get the worm when it comes to holiday sales. Start shopping early to get the best selection of products before they run out. This is especially important for items that are in high demand. When you’re shopping online, buying early may also increase your chances of receiving your items in a timely manner and avoiding the delays that can occur when shipping volumes are high.
Use Price Matching to Your Advantage
Many stores offer price matching, which can save you a lot of money, especially during big sales like Memorial Day. If you find an item offered at a lower price by another retailer, present proof (like an advertisement or a web listing) to the store where you’re shopping. Many major retailers will not only match the price but might also give you a percentage off the matched price as an incentive to buy with them.
Follow Your Favorite Stores on Social Media
Many deals or special promotions are announced on social media platforms first. Make sure you’re following your favorite stores to catch any announcements about flash sales or additional discounts that might be available for a limited time during the Memorial Day weekend.
Evaluate Return Policies
Before making a purchase, especially a significant one, always check the retailer’s return policy. Some items bought on sale might have different return policies compared to regular purchases. Knowing the return policy is essential so you don’t end up stuck with an item you later realize you don’t want or can’t use.
Shop Responsibly
Finally, while it can be tempting to go on a spending spree with so many sales, it’s important to shop responsibly. Stick to your budget and resist the urge to buy things you don’t really need just because they’re on sale. Responsible shopping ensures that you enjoy your purchases without any buyer’s remorse.
Memorial Day sales offer fantastic opportunities for savings, but the best deals don’t just fall into your lap — they require strategy and preparation. By doing your homework, comparing prices, and shopping early, you can make the most of these sales. With these tips, you’ll be well-equipped to shop smarter and enjoy significant savings this Memorial Day.