Home > Shopping Tips Shopping should be fun and fulfilling, and that's why Living Today has gathered these shopping hints and tips.   The helpful pointers listed below are designed to make your shopping experiences more pleasant and effective!

Your Best Shopping Partner is Your Phone

Planning is key to successful shopping. Call the center�s customer service, management offices, or visit the World Wide Web to identify a list of stores, hours and amenities prior to your visit. This will help identify which stores you want to visit, as well as help to spark some ideas.

The Secret to Shopping Endurance: Comfortable Clothes

Outlet centers are typically open-air and expansive. Comfortable, slip-on shoes and clothes save time and anguish. And if you plan to try things on, a neutral-colored top is recommended.

It�s All About Who You Know: Get on Store Mailing Lists

Many outlet stores have customer mailing lists located by the register. By placing your name on these lists, you�ll receive early notification of special sales and promotions.

Sizes and Colors Don�t Matter When Buying Gift Certificates

Everyone has that someone on their list that is difficult to shop for; you buy and they return. Consider either a center-wide gift certificate, available at center management offices, or a merchant-specific gift certificate which can be purchased directly from the store.

Eat Well. Rest Well. Shop Better

Hunger and fatigue can impair judgement and reduce patience when shopping. So eat well before shopping and pack a snack to take along. And be sure to get a full night�s sleep before making the trip.

An Occupied Child Is a Smart Shopper�s Child

Many centers are child-friendly for those parents who have their children with them when they holiday shop. Visit customer service booths for complimentary stroller rental and directions to other amenities such as playgrounds or food courts.

Outlets are Worth the Trip

Plan to spend the day. Outlets are a viable alternative to regional malls and offer consumers true one-stop shopping. Most outlet centers have stores with gifts for men, women, and children, as well as merchandise for the home and office. By taking that extra hour to visit an outlet center, many shoppers find they are able to knock out their entire holiday shopping list in one trip.

Use Coupons To Buy Even More

Use coupons to save even more money. Ask Customer Service about special coupons offered by center merchants. They are a great way to enjoy even deeper savings on already-discounted merchandise. 

Outlet Shopping is Smart Shopping

Want to know more about outlets? Here are some interesting facts:

Manufacturer�s outlets rank as the fasting-growing segment of the national retail industry.

More than 500 million shoppers visit outlet centers each year.

The outlet industry represents $12 billion in total retail sales per year.