How to Shop Wisely at Outlet Stores

An outlet gives manufacturers another chance to realize profit from poor sellers or overruns, and allows consumers to get price breaks on their favorite brand-name merchandise. In addition to deals on clothing for the whole family, look for housewares, linens, shoes, luggage and sometimes furniture.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Shopping Lists
• Outlet Stores Online

1. Dedicate a full day to shopping. Outlets are typically a 1- to 3-hour drive from a major city, and can have up to 300 stores.

2. Plan your attack by looking at the map of the outlet complex before you start shopping. Hit your priority stores first while your energy is high, or if the complex is immense, visit the most appealing blocks or clusters in the morning.

3. Itemize what you need, or what you came to shop for. As you wander the maze of stores and get tempted by super deals on amazing items, it's easy to forget about that baby shower gift, new underwear or shoes for the kids.

4. Concentrate on the brand-name stores, as they have the broadest selection and range of sizes. Warehouse stores may advertise brand-name items, but you may end up disappointed by their limited selection or size availability.

5. Remember that in addition to surplus stock and poor retail performers, outlet stores also have a lot of irregular merchandise. Check each item thoroughly for construction and try on all items that you plan to buy.

Tips & Warnings

• You'll do a lot of walking and, ideally, you'll try a lot of things on. Wear comfortable shoes and clothes that are easy to get off and on.
• Pack a lunch. Most outlet centers have concession stands or small restaurants, but prices are often very high.
• Get on the mailing list of your favorite outlet stores to receive postcards and flyers announcing sales and additional discount days.
• Understand the return policy of a store before you make a purchase. If an item doesn't work out, you want the option to return or exchange it.

on 11/22/2005 Have someone available that you can call to have them research prices on the Internet.

on 11/22/2005 Check with your favorite outlets and outlet stores - they may have an online newsletter or a "club". Sign up - you'll receive extra bonuses or discounts!

on 11/22/2005 I am usually a size 14 in jeans. I was in an outlet store of a very well-known designer label. The jeans were too small, so I tried on the next size, which was big. I went out of the fitting room and picked up another size 14, which was just right.

on 11/22/2005 Sometimes you can get a good deal if you just ask for a price reduction on items that other vendors sell for less, or if the packaging is not in good condition, or if it's a display model. The point is ask and you shall receive -- or not.

on 11/22/2005 Before you give your money to a clerk, find out what their refund/return policy is. I usually don't buy at a store if they have an exchange only/limited day policy (10 days from original purchase). Even if they tell you, have it in writing.