Do you really dislike shopping, but want to find good deals ? Many stores are often crowded or simply never seem to have exactly what you are looking. Here are some ways to spend less time shopping.

Markdown Days

Schedule when to shop. Contact local stores and ask them when certain items go on sale during the week. The first person you contact at the store may not come out and tell you the information you need. Take some time and call different departments before going in person. One example is my local mall has many department stores that do true markdowns during the week. Target does markdowns on Tuesdays and larger stores like Macys and JC Penny all follow a schedule for marking down items. Many sales associates know the schedule and will freely share this information.

Online Shopping

Sign up for your favorite retailers mailing list. Those that offer online shopping will send special discounts and coupon codes to entice customers to buy. These online stores often send unadvertised coupons to help move merchandise that is in stores. There are many unadvertised online deals that can be found by searching by the lowest price, or in the clearance section.

Shopping List

Create a list of the items you would like to buy, and the price range. This helps to quickly identify what items may be great choices to try on, and select something to purchase. If family members can not shop with you in person, bring their current measurements to the store. Use a tape measure to make sure the length and waistline will fit.

Doing a bit of investigative work is the best way to find out when local stores have true sales. Online shopping and email alerts can help you catch bargains that you may have missed in the store. Shopping lists are a great way to quickly shop and prevent impulse purchases.