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Walmart built its entire brand on low prices, and millions of shoppers count on it to keep their budgets in check on everything from groceries to home essentials. But shopping there doesn't automatically mean you're getting the best deal.
Even the savviest bargain hunters could be leaving money on the table without realizing it. If you want to save money at Walmart, make sure you're not making these 10 common mistakes.
Get a protection plan on all your appliances
Did you know if your air conditioner stops working, your homeowner’s insurance won’t cover it? Same with plumbing, electrical issues, appliances, and more.
Whether or not you’re a new homeowner, a home warranty from Choice Home Warranty could pick up the slack where insurance falls short and protect you against surprise expenses. If a covered system in your home breaks, you can call their hotline 24/7 to get it repaired.
For a limited time, you can get your first month free with a Single Payment home warranty plan.
Not buying Walmart brand
Walmart offers multiple brands, including Equate and Great Value, that are arguably just as good as name brands.
For instance, the Equate brand is a lower-cost alternative to higher-priced lotions, medications, and supplements.
Walmart's Great Value brand also offers items on your grocery list (like potato chips) at a fraction of the price of name brands, so you can save money shopping.
Overlooking Walmart app perks
Many retailers have apps, and Walmart is no different. The app is an easy way to discover any items currently on sale or on clearance.
Additionally, if you place an order for $35 or more, you're eligible for free, two-day shipping. The app also offers other time-saving features, like in-store maps, so you can find what you're looking for fast.
Not asking for a price match
Another mistake people make is not taking advantage of Walmart's price match policy. For example, if you find the exact same item for a lower price at Amazon, Walmart might match the lower price depending on the item's eligibility.
The policy extends to multiple big-name retailers, including Best Buy and Target. It may take some time to research prices, but it's worth it when the savings are significant.
Forgetting about the free baby welcome box
Many parents-to-be create a baby registry at Walmart not only because of the retailer's large selection of products but also for the savings offered by the store's own brands like Parent's Choice baby formula.
When creating your registry, don't forget to sign up for the welcome box, which includes free goodies for your new arrival.
Forgetting to check the online price
Sometimes, the price of a product is lower on Walmart.com than it is at the retailer's physical location.
If the item is available at your local store, you can always buy it online and choose to pick it up in person. This can help you save even more money than having it shipped to your door.
Missing marked-down products
Although this trick varies by location, some Walmart stores will mark down meats and other perishable items when their "sell by" date is close.
Ask if your local store does this and, if so, on which day and at what time during the week. Keep in mind that you'll want to either freeze or use the item shortly after buying it.
Not transferring your prescriptions
If you have a decent number of prescription medications to pick up each month, consider moving them over to Walmart.
Many of their generic medications are priced quite low, and you'll still get the same quality product.
Contact the pharmacy at your local store and ask about the cost of their generic brands. Most will give it to you over the phone.
Forgetting about the clearance section
Many Walmart locations have a dedicated clearance aisle, though many also offer markdowns throughout the store. Look for those yellow tags.
Also, if the clearance price ends in "0," that's usually the lowest the company will drop the price to, meaning that's the time to buy.
Not signing up for Walmart+
Most people are familiar with Amazon Prime, but Walmart offers its own membership called Walmart+.
At $12.95 a month, members can take advantage of a ton of perks, including access to Paramount+ and free shipping with no order minimum.
Additional benefits include fuel discounts at participating locations and exclusive access to product releases and Black Friday deals.
Get a protection plan on all your appliances
Did you know if your air conditioner stops working, your homeowner’s insurance won’t cover it? Same with plumbing, electrical issues, appliances, and more.
Whether or not you’re a new homeowner, a home warranty from Choice Home Warranty could pick up the slack where insurance falls short and protect you against surprise expenses. If a covered system in your home breaks, you can call their hotline 24/7 to get it repaired.
For a limited time, you can get your first month free with a Single Payment home warranty plan.
Not turning in old electronics
If you're thinking about purchasing a new voice assistant, game console, or even a cell phone, you could turn in your gently used device to Walmart and make extra money.
After you get an offer for your item, just send in your electronics using a prepaid shipping label. Once it's evaluated, you'll earn a Walmart eGift card you can use.
Bottom line
Walmart is an affordable place to shop, especially if you're trying to stop living paycheck to paycheck. However, you may not be saving as much as you could if you're making these mistakes.
Whether you choose to try a Walmart brand product or stop at the clearance section before you head out, using even one or two of these ways could help you avoid wasting money.
More from FinanceBuzz:
- 12 ways to pocket up to $300.
- Are you a homeowner? Get a protection plan on all your appliances.
- 10 little weird hacks Costco shoppers should know.
- Learn how to escape the paycheck-to-paycheck grind.
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