I wrote this post as part of the Discover Preferred Blogger Program. All opinions are my own.
It’s that time of year when things start to get really crazy. Between school parties, family pictures, holiday cards, shopping, wrapping presents, and holiday parties I feel like we have something going on every day between now and the end of the year. It’s such a fun time of year though and I always look forward to the special time spent with family and friends.
One of my favorite parts about this time of year is shopping. I love buying gifts for everyone on my list and I love seeing my kids’ faces light up when they open up their presents. The only downside is it’s not always easy on the pocketbook. However, I’ve learned that if you want to stretch every dollar, you have to be a smart shopper. Be prepared this holiday season with these simple tips.
Shop “Smart” During the Holidays
- Make your list and check it twice! Create lists and set a budget for everyone you are shopping for. Pinterest provides excellent ideas and allows you to set up private boards that only you can see with gift ideas for everyone on your list.
- Compare prices among retailers before heading out to stores. Make sure that you are getting the best deal possible so that you don’t get sucked into “buying in the moment.”
- Remember to ask yourself whether the great deal you see is actually a great deal for you. You may also want to research online prices versus in-store prices, as you can often snag better deals online even when you factor in shipping costs. Plus, think about the time and gas saved when shopping online!
- If shopping online, make sure you check sites like RetailMeNot for promo codes before placing your order.
- Identity fraud is very common this time of year. Make sure you keep a close eye on your accounts for any fraudulent activity.
- Now is a great time to check your credit score. In fact, some lenders are starting to provide this important information for free. Beginning November 18, Discover is providing FICO® credit scores to Discover it cardmembers each month. Customers get their scores for free and right on the monthly statement.
- Discover cardmembers can earn extra rewards while shopping for gifts by shopping online at ShopDiscover.com, Discover’s online portal featuring more than 200 online merchants offering between 5-20% Cashback Bonus. More than 85 merchants will increase their Cashback Bonus amounts from Nov. 7 through Jan. 8, 2014.
- Discover cardmembers can redeem the Cashback Bonus they have accumulated all year long for partner gift cards that always give more value, such as redeeming $20 worth of Cashback Bonus for a $25 gift card. This can be an especially savvy trick when purchasing gifts for teachers, sitters, hairdressers and other year-round helpers.
ShopDiscover Holiday Gifts List
To help give you a head start on your shopping list, here are a few gift ideas to take advantage of when using the ShopDiscover portal:
1. Holiday Hostess
For any holiday party, surprise your host with a seasonal floral arrangement or festive bouquet from 1800Flowers.com (Discover cardmembers can earn 20% Cashback Bonus!)
2. Pet Parents
Whether they have four legs or two, if you’re buying gifts for everyone in your family, pets will love a new toy (Discover cardmembers can earn 15% Cashback Bonus at Petco and PetSmart!)
3. Kids
Pajamas, a new outfit or winter gear are all great holiday gifts for the children on your shopping list. If you shop at The Children’s Place through ShopDiscover, cardmembers can earn 10% Cashback Bonus.
4. The Fashionista
A festive cocktail ring, an oversized scarf or embellished handbag is sure to please the fashion-forward person on your shopping list. ShopDiscover offers cardmembers 10% Cashback Bonus at fashion favorites including GAP, Old Navy, JCPenney and Kohl’s.
5. Parents
New gardening tools or new home décor and kitchenware are great gifts for mom and dad. Discover cardmembers can earn 10% Cashback Bonus at Home Depot and Crate & Barrel through ShopDiscover.
How do you shop “smart” during the holidays?
