These 9 Target Hacks Will Help Save Serious Cash
Let me know if you’ve heard this one before. You walk into Target with a list of four things you need, and then you walk out with an entire cart full. That used to be me too until I learned these great Target hacks.
These strategies to shop at Target will make both your heart and your wallet full. Even if you’re not a frequent Target shopper, you’ll want to take note of these great target hacks for your next shopping trip!
Target Hack #1: Go Coupon Crazy
One Target hack that will save you money every time is using a coupon. These can be Target or manufacturer coupons. Unlike other stores, Target will allow you to stack coupons, meaning you can use more than one coupon on a single product.
Target Hack #2: Rock the Gift Card Promos
Target often offers a $5 or $10 gift card when you purchase a certain amount on certain items. Paper towels, dish soap, toothpaste, baby items, the list goes on. Take advantage of these deals when they happen and, if you don’t see the sale advertised in their weekly store ad, skip it. It’s just another reason to come back to Target in the future!
Bonus hack: While we are talking about gift cards, keep in mind you can purchase discounted Target gift cards from Raise.com. Using these will reduce the overall cost of your shopping trip.
Target Hack #3: Know the Clearance Rotation
Everyone loves a great clearance score! Target’s clearance deals can be wildly awesome or extremely picked over depending on the day. If there’s something you know you need, like electronics or bedding, visit the store on the day they do their clearance markdowns:
- Monday: Kids’ clothing, baby, books, stationery, electronics
- Tuesday: Bath/bedding, women’s clothing, pet, food items
- Wednesday: Men’s clothing, furniture, health & beauty, diapers, lawn & garden
- Thursday: Housewares, decor, lingerie, shoes, toys, luggage, sporting goods
- Friday: Auto, cosmetics, jewelry, hardware
Target Hack #4: Use Cash Back Apps
Target has their own savings app called Cartwheel that is an absolutely essential hack for any Target shopper – and completely free to use. But you can also double up by using a cash back rewards app like Ibotta.
As long as you hang onto your receipt, you can’t lose! If you’re shopping online, you have even more opportunities to save. Shop Target through eBates for extra cash back and savings options.
Target Hack #5: The Price Adjustment
If you buy a product at Target and it goes on sale within the next 14 days, Target will refund you the difference. Target will also usually match their competitor’s prices; there are a few extra details listed in their policy. From my experience, the adjustment process is fast and easy. It’s one of the many reasons I’m so loyal to Target!
Target Hack #6: Waiting Out the Markdowns
Found something incredible on clearance? Of course, you did. But before you think you scored the best deal ever, check the price on the little orange or yellow clearance sticker. In most cases, if the price ends with $.06 or $.08, you may be better off waiting, because the item may be marked down even further. A price ending in $.04 is your indicator that you’re getting the most reduced price.
Target Hack #7: Say Yes to the Red Card
Having a Target RedCard – either the debit or credit card – will save you 5% on every Target purchase automatically. The debit card links up to your bank account, while the credit card functions like a typical retail credit card. Which one you pick depends on what your current financial situation is. You’re probably better off going with the debit card option, which won’t impact your credit or add to your temptation to overspend.
Also Read: Target RedCard: Save 5% off Your Target Purchases
Target Hack #8: BYOB
Bring your own reusable bag from home when you shop at Target and instantly receive $0.05 off your purchase. It doesn’t sound like a lot, but even if you only go to Target once per week, this is a hack that will save you a couple bucks a year.
Target Hack #9: Commit to Your List + 1
I have friends with a superhuman level of self-control who can walk into a Target and walk out only with the items on their list. Knowing that I’ll never reach that level, I’ve made up a rule that works to keep me on track with my shopping budget.
On every Target list, I add an item called “surprise.” Once I’ve gathered all my necessary items, I scour the store to find that one special surprise — usually no more than $20. Whether I end up with a candle, or a dress, or a new throw pillow, I’m never disappointed by limiting myself to just one item. And neither is my wallet!
