16 Foolish Ways Shoppers Waste Money at Target

It can be easy to rack up a big bill once you finally get to the Target checkout counter. The minute you walk into the retail giant, you are surrounded by brilliant design, fun lifestyle items, discount tags, and fresh brands.

Shoppers are loyal to Target, even if its price points are slightly higher than those of competitors such as Walmart. But those somewhat higher prices shouldn’t condemn you to wasting money at Target.

If you aren’t taking advantage of every opportunity to save money at Target, your wallet may be suffering a hit. Here are some foolish ways people waste money at Target.

You may have noticed Target’s house brands while browsing the aisles. Target owns items with the labels Up&Up, Boots & Barkley, A New Day, Everspring, Cat & Jack, and Good & Gather.

These labels offer the same quality as brand names for a fraction of the price, helping you get ahead financially.

If you aren’t purchasing at least a few of the items under these labels as household staples, you may want to reconsider.

Target Circle is one of the most beloved retail rewards systems. This is because the rewards offer so much to members.

Your purchases earn you cash back, and Target Circle members also get coupons. Your free membership allows you to search and access individualized deals.

Bullseye’s Playground used to be known as Target’s dollar section. The retailer then expanded its offerings to $3 and $5.

Now, you can find an array of budget-friendly decor, toys, organizational items, and more in Bullseye’s Playground, which is named after Target’s mascot, Bullseye the Dog.

However, since this is the first stop in the store, it can be pretty alluring. If you're not careful, your spending can add up quickly.

Target hosts a special event twice yearly that you shouldn’t miss: In April and December, Target offers gift cards for 10% off during a single day.

This deal is available exclusively to Target Circle members. It is worth signing up for Target Circle just to cash in on this sale alone.

Don’t miss out on the clearance racks and end caps at Target. There, you'll find many clearance items.

Many of these products are perfectly new but just slightly out of season.

Big sales are important to pay attention to as well. Most Target locations run sales on baking items leading up to the holidays, and health and fitness items usually go on sale around the beginning of the year.

It can be tempting to seek a little caffeine boost before a big day of shopping at Target.

However, if you are trying to save cash, avoid purchasing anything at a Target Starbucks. Instead, brew up some coffee at home and get your caffeine fix that way.

In addition to Target Circle coupons, the retailer accepts manufacturer coupons. Don’t pass up these great ways to save a little extra.

Target has a price-match guarantee. You can request a price match at the time of purchase or up to 14 days after your purchase.

Keep this in mind next time you eyeball something and want to make sure you get the best price.

Before you purchase something on the Target website, use browser extensions — such as Honey and Rakuten —  to earn cash back on your purchases.

Target’s highly praised RedCard has been rebranded as the Target Circle Card. It offers credit, debit, and reloadable card options and saves users an extra 5% on everyday purchases.

You also get free two-day shipping, additional sales and discounts, and access to no-rush returns.

Not only can you make a Target wish list for your upcoming nuptials, but there are also baby and community registries.

If you use the Target wedding registry, every item left on your registry after the big day is available to you for purchase at 15% off.

Take your used technology to a Target to determine if it qualifies for the Tech Trade-In program. If your items are selected for trade-in, you'll receive an electronic gift card.

Target is widely known for its consistent markdown schedule. For example, shoppers say Monday is the day new tech, accessories, baby supplies, or kids' clothing is usually discounted.

Tuesday covers women’s clothing, food, and pet supplies. Wednesday is health and beauty, lawn care, furniture, and men’s clothing.

On Thursdays, housewares, sporting goods, decor, toys, and shoes are usually updated. On Fridays, hardware, jewelry, auto wares, and cosmetics are marked down.

Keep in mind that this is not the official schedule, but shoppers in the know swear that this is when these items are marked down.

If you want to save on a particular item, consider shopping for it during the off-season. Want a swimsuit? They will be on deep discount at the end of the summer, and you can stock up for next season.

Help the environment and save money with each trip to Target: The retailer will give you a 5-cent discount for every reusable bag you bring to the checkout.

Using your own bags will aid the environment and boost your bank account.

Target can be a wonderful place to save more on everyday essentials. But to get the most bang for your buck, don’t overlook the ways to save on this list.

Keep your eyes peeled to get the best prices on your next Target adventure.