How to Find the Best Deals in the USA: An Experienced Shopper's Guide

After years of hunting for bargains and saving thousands of dollars, I've learned that finding the best deals isn't about luck—it's about strategy. Whether you're shopping online or in stores, knowing when, where, and how to shop can make the difference between paying full price and scoring incredible savings. Let me share my tried-and-true methods that have helped me become a deal-finding expert.

Master the Art of Timing Your Purchases

One of the biggest secrets to getting great deals is understanding when to buy . Retailers follow predictable patterns throughout the year, and knowing these cycles can save you serious money. For example, I always wait until after major holidays to buy seasonal items—those Christmas decorations are 50-75% off in January, and summer patio furniture drops dramatically in price come September. Electronics typically see their deepest discounts during Black Friday and Cyber Monday , but don't sleep on back-to-school sales in July and August either.

I've also noticed that specific days of the week matter more than you'd think. Many online retailers launch their sales on Tuesdays and Wednesdays, while in-store clearance markdowns often happen on Thursday mornings when stores are restocking for the weekend rush. Target , for instance, typically marks down items on Mondays and Thursdays, which is when I make my weekly runs to check their clearance endcaps.

Stack Your Savings Like a Pro

Here's where shopping gets really exciting: stacking deals . This means combining multiple discounts, coupons, and cashback offers on a single purchase. I start by checking sites like PromoCodz for current coupon codes before making any online purchase. Then I'll use a cashback extension or app to earn money back on top of that discount. Many stores also have their own loyalty programs that offer additional percentage-off coupons or points that translate to dollars off future purchases.

Don't forget about credit card rewards either. I use specific cards that offer higher cashback percentages at certain retailers. When you combine a store sale, a coupon code, cashback from your browser extension, points from the store's rewards program, and credit card cashback, you can sometimes end up paying less than half the original price. It takes a few extra minutes to set up, but the savings are absolutely worth it.

Essential Shopping Tools and Resources

Smart shoppers use technology to their advantage. I keep several browser extensions installed that automatically find and apply coupon codes at checkout, compare prices across different retailers, and alert me when prices drop on items I'm watching. CamelCamelCamel is my go-to for tracking Amazon price histories—it shows me whether I'm really getting a deal or if the item was cheaper last month.

For grocery shopping, apps like Ibotta and store-specific apps have saved me thousands over the years. I spend about 10 minutes each week reviewing the deals and adding offers to my account before I shop. The cashback adds up quickly, especially on items I was already planning to buy. I also subscribe to email newsletters from my favorite stores, but I use a separate email address just for shopping so my main inbox doesn't get cluttered.

Know Where to Shop for Different Categories

Different retailers excel at different products, and knowing where to go can maximize your savings. For electronics and appliances , I always check Best Buy and Amazon , but I've found that Costco often beats them both on TVs and kitchen appliances, plus their extended warranty is included. For clothing, I've learned that shopping off-season at stores like TJ Maxx and Marshalls yields better deals than waiting for sales at regular department stores.

Online marketplaces like eBay are fantastic for finding both new and gently used items at steep discounts, especially for brand-name products. I've purchased everything from designer handbags to power tools at 40-60% off retail prices. Just make sure to check seller ratings and return policies before buying. For home goods and furniture, Wayfair regularly runs sales with 50% off or more, and they often have additional coupon codes available that bring the prices down even further.

Price Matching and Price Adjustments Are Your Friends

Many shoppers don't realize that price matching is still widely available and can save you money without having to wait for shipping from another retailer. Most major stores like Walmart , Target , and Best Buy will match competitors' prices if you show them proof. I always check prices at multiple stores before making a big purchase, then ask for a price match at the most convenient location.

Even better, take advantage of price adjustment policies . If you buy something and it goes on sale within 7-14 days (depending on the store's policy), you can request a refund of the difference. I once bought a laptop that went on sale for $200 less just five days later, and I got that money back simply by calling customer service with my receipt. It's worth checking the price of your recent purchases regularly during the adjustment window.

The Power of Patience and Planning

The best deals often come to those who wait and plan strategically. I keep a running wishlist throughout the year and only buy items when they hit my target price. This prevents impulse purchases and ensures I'm never paying more than I should. For big-ticket items, I set up price alerts and wait for the right moment to strike. Sometimes this means waiting a few months, but the savings are substantial.

I also practice the 30-day rule for non-essential purchases. If I want something, I add it to a list and wait 30 days. If I still want it after that time, I start looking for the best deal. More often than not, I find that I don't actually need the item, which is the ultimate way to save money. When I do decide to purchase, I know I'm making a thoughtful decision and I'm committed to finding the absolute best price.

Key Strategies for Maximum Savings

• Never pay for shipping – Look for free shipping codes, reach minimum order thresholds, or use in-store pickup options
• Buy in bulk when it makes sense – Non-perishables, household items, and frequently used products are often cheaper in larger quantities at warehouse clubs
• Shop clearance sections first – Always check clearance both online and in-store before looking at regular-priced items
• Use abandoned cart tricks – Add items to your online cart and leave them there; some retailers will send you a discount code to complete the purchase
• Follow your favorite brands on social media – Companies often share exclusive promo codes with their followers

Final Thoughts

Finding the best deals has become second nature to me, but it started with learning these strategies and making them part of my shopping routine. The key is to stay organized, be patient, and never assume the first price you see is the best price available. With the tools and techniques I've shared, you can easily save hundreds or even thousands of dollars each year on purchases you were going to make anyway. Start implementing these strategies today, and watch your savings grow while still getting everything you need and want.