How to Ensure You’re Not Overpaying for Holiday Gifts

With store chains and websites competing for your holiday shopping dollars, it can be confusing to find the best deals. It all depends on where you shop, when you do it, and what you’re looking for. Here’s how you can ensure that you’re getting the best deals on your holiday gifts this year.

1. DO YOUR RESEARCH.

Thinking of the perfect gift for someone is just the first step of holiday shopping. To get the best prices, be sure to research the gifts you’re buying before you actually purchase them. Go to multiple websites and stores to compare the price of the gift, and never do all your shopping in one place. While one or two gifts might be on sale at one store, other gifts may be discounted elsewhere. While you’re at it, research which stores regularly drop their prices or have the best deals on specific items. Some stores may always have deals on certain electronics or entertainment items no matter the season, while others are known for their clothing sales.

2. USE SOCIAL MEDIA AND EMAIL TO YOUR ADVANTAGE.

Following your favorite retailers on the major social platforms is an easy way to stay informed on any big sales coming up, especially flash sales that could be over in just a few hours. Signing up for email updates is another way to scope out great deals before they vanish. Many store chains use emails to first alert customers about their Black Friday and other holiday offerings. The sooner you get this information, the sooner you can make a holiday shopping plan that fits your budget.

3. KNOW THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN BLACK FRIDAY AND CYBER MONDAY.

They’re the two biggest shopping days of the year, but Black Friday and Cyber Monday aren’t interchangeable. There will be plenty of information in the lead-up to the shopping frenzy, so you’ll be able to see which stores have which items on sale. Historically, Black Friday is known for its mega “doorbuster” sales on larger items like TVs and appliances, along with plenty of in-store exclusives. Cyber Monday, however, has been gaining popularity over the years with its sales on laptops, travel, and clothing. It could be a confusing landscape to navigate, but the savings will be well worth it after just a little research.

4. KNOW YOUR CARD DEALS.

All those cards in your wallet could equal big savings for the holidays. If you have a customer loyalty card for a specific store chain, do your research—you might be entitled to a range of discounts like a percentage off your purchase or free shipping for online orders.

You should also always check if your credit card has partnered with any store chain you’re frequenting over the holidays. And cash back cards may feature specific categories, like consumer electronics, where you can receive even more back. You can be entitled to extra cash back savings and not even know it.

It’s important to get the best price on your gifts, but you also want to make the most of your credit card’s cash back during the holiday season. With a Cashback Match program that automatically matches all the cash back you earn at the end of your first year as a card member, the Discover it Card is a great choice. Terms apply.  Learn more at Discover.com.