Clearance Hacks: How to Save Big on Holiday Leftovers
Hi there! I’m Emma Reynolds, and I just want to share I’ve spent years perfecting the art of smart spending. There’s an incredible thrill to uncovering the best deals on things you actually need (or just really, really want). Clearance shopping feels like a treasure hunt with amazing rewards. But if you go in without a plan, it’s easy to overspend or miss out on the golden opportunities.
This guide is packed with tips that I’ve learned over time—the hard way sometimes—that can help you maximize your clearance shopping strategies. Trust me, it’s all about timing, tools, and a little bit of savvy shopping know-how.
Timing Your Shopping Strategy
Timing is everything. I learned this the year I scored a cashmere sweater for just $5! According to Smartwerks, starting sales at the tail end of a season is key—it draws in shoppers like us while helping retailers clear their shelves. That’s why I always keep tabs on post-season discounts.
Whether you’re hitting stores midweek for quieter aisles or surfing their online clearance sections after holidays, a little timing prep goes a long way. Nail this, and you'll be snagging steals in no time!
1. Key Markdown Dates by Retailer
Different retailers follow different clearance schedules. For example, most department stores have semi-annual sales in January and July. Discount stores like Target and Walmart often have their biggest holiday clearance right after major events, like Christmas or back-to-school season.
2. First Markdowns vs. Final Clearance
When you spot a great find, the first instinct might be to grab it right away. But wait—sometimes patience really pays off. While first-round markups go as high as 30–50%, waiting for final clearance can bring prices down to 70–90%.
Of course, the risk is someone else grabbing it first. Personally, when it’s something high-demand, I tend to grab it during second-round mark-downs (50–70%) and feel great knowing I didn't miss it altogether.
3. Best Days of the Week to Shop
Here’s a trick not everyone knows—most stores start marking down inventory early in the week. Tuesdays and Wednesdays are particularly great for snagging fresh clearance deals before the weekend rush.
4. Early Morning vs. Evening Shopping
Pro tip from a seasoned saver—shopping early morning offers the best chance to snag what you saw online before it disappears. But if you're hunting in-store clearance and want final-markdown levels, try late evening hours when staff sometimes put up newly revised tags.
5. Online vs. In-Store Timing Differences
Online clearance shopping can be hit-or-miss because you’re competing with shoppers from everywhere. I suggest hunting for deals right after midnight when inventory resets if you really have your eye on something. But for final clearance bags in-store? There’s no substitute for holding the item in hand.
Category-Specific Shopping Guide
Different clearance categories call for their own strategies. I once walked out with $300 worth of Christmas décor for under $50—just by shopping smarter at the right time.
1. Seasonal Décor and Timing
Shop immediately after winter holidays or Halloween for marked-down décor that’ll look amazing next year. Stores need the shelf space fast, which means huge discounts.
2. Gift Sets and Premium Packages
Holiday gift sets, especially from beauty brands, start at 50% off the day after Christmas. Wait just one more week, though, and most stores slash them to 70–85%.
3. Winter Clothing and Accessories
Stores begin discounting winter apparel surprisingly early—in January—so grab those coats and boots while there’s still chilly weather to enjoy them!
4. Holiday Food and Candy
Edible clearance is king if you’re throwing a post-holiday party or just love festive treats. Candy can go for pennies, and with proper storage (hello, freezer bags!), it can last.
5. Gift Wrap and Packaging Supplies
I never buy gift-wrap full price anymore. Instead, I stock up at up-to-90% discounts two weeks after Christmas.
6. Electronics and Gadgets
Big-ticket items like TVs and laptops often go on sale right after Black Friday and post-holidays. Last January, I snagged headphones that were sitting on final clearance at 80% off.
7. Holiday-Themed Housewares
Think mugs, linens, and utensils—they stack up in clearance bins as stores prep for spring inventory.
Digital Tools and Apps
The tools you use can make a huge difference. I swear by a few apps and strategies that help me save even more.
1. Price Tracking Apps
CamelCamelCamel, Honey, and ShopSavvy are lifesavers. They track price drops and ensure you’re buying at the right time.
2. Store Inventory Checkers
Target, Walmart, and Best Buy apps can show clearance availability in nearby locations. It’s like being one step ahead of everyone else.
3. Coupon Stacking Strategies
Did you know you can stack manufacturer's coupons with store clearance discounts? My all-time favorite combo got me $120 worth of items for less than $10.
4. Cashback Opportunities
Apps like Rakuten give you cashback even on clearance. Double the savings is always a win.
5. Price Matching Policies During Clearance
Although rare, some stores honor price-matching for clearance deals. It never hurts to ask!
In-Store Shopping Tactics
Never underestimate the magic of in-store browsing during a sale—you’ll often find treasures where others didn’t bother to look.
1. Hidden Clearance Locations
Many stores have those unmarked clearance aisles tucked away. Explore the ends of aisles or behind bulkier displays.
2. Reading Price Tags for Future Markdowns
Some price tags include dates or color codes that indicate when they’ll potentially get marked down again. Use this insider knowledge!
3. Asking About Additional Discounts
At some stores, employees can apply “manager specials” to select items. The worst they can say is no!
4. Store-Specific Markdown Schedules
Stores like Target reportedly stick to discount routines (e.g., toys on Thursdays, electronics on Mondays). Bookmark these days!
5. Rain Check Policies
Is something sold out but still on sale? Ask if the store offers rain checks. You might still be able to enjoy the savings when they restock.
Maximizing Savings
The ultimate clearance wins come when discounts meet already-existing deals.
1. Combining Clearance with Coupons
There’s no better feeling than watching your total crash with coupon application at checkout.
2. Store Rewards Programs
Sign up for every free rewards program! I once earned $10 store credit to use on top of clearance.
3. Credit Card Rewards Optimization
Use your cashback credit card for all purchases to sneak in extra savings.
4. Bundle Deals and Bulk Buying
Even on clearance, stores may promote bundles. Stock up on non-perishables or essentials for a much lower unit price.
5. Price Adjustment Policies
If you buy something and it drops further within a window, you can sometimes get the difference refunded.
Storage and Organization
Clearance shopping isn’t truly smart if items end up forgotten or wasted.
1. Storing Items for Next Year
Invest in good bins or vacuum-sealed bags for seasonal items to ensure they look perfect a year later.
2. Inventory Management Systems
I track my clearance finds with simple spreadsheets, so I remember what’s already waiting for my next holiday season.
3. Protection From Damage
Store fragile décor with bubble wrap or dividers to prevent breakage.
4. Storage Space Optimization
Get creative with under-bed storage or those unused closet corners.
5. Labeling and Cataloging
Label everything! Knowing what’s in each bin will prevent duplicate purchases.
Strategic Planning
Having a plan makes everything easier—even clearance shopping.
1. Building a Clearance Calendar
List major sales events and seasonal transitions for timely deal-hunting.
2. Creating a Shopping List
Go in knowing what you’re looking for to avoid aimless buying.
3. Setting Price Targets
Know your thresholds for “great deals” versus “meh discounts.”
4. Budget Allocation
Allocate each paycheck beforehand to avoid purchasing guilt afterwards.
5. Long-Term Saving Strategies
Plan purchases for seasons ahead. I’m already eyeing outdoor furniture clearance for next summer.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
We’ve all had regrets after overspending, but these tips help you avoid falling into common traps!
1. Buying Just Because It’s Cheap
It’s tempting, but money spent on unnecessary items is still wasted.
2. Missing Return Windows
Always save receipts and set reminders for clearance purchases you’re unsure about.
3. Overlooking Damage
Check items closely—clearance racks sometimes hold slightly damaged goods.
4. Improper Storage Leading to Waste
Failing to store items properly can ruin even the best deals. Protect your savings by protecting your finds.
5. Over-Buying Perishables
Be realistic about how much of one sale item you’ll use before it expires.
Looking Ahead
Clearance hunting isn’t just a one-time event—it’s a smart, year-round habit.
1. Planning for Next Season
Think long-term. Scoring discounts on winter coats in spring feels amazing come next November!
2. Building a Year-Round Strategy
Learn when categories usually go on clearance and create a personalized shopping calendar.
3. Creating Shopping Calendars
Track annual clearance events plus store routines. It keeps you ahead of the curve.
4. Tracking Historical Prices
Track previous sale cycles so you know the best time to snag deals.
5. Setting Deal Alerts
Apps like SlickDeals and DealNews notify you when items drop in price.
Simple Cents!
- Start Early: Shop mid-week mornings to beat the crowd.
- Use Tools: Price tracking apps and cashback portals double your savings.
- Plan Ahead: Create a future shopping list and stick to it.
- Mix It Up: Combine clearance, coupons, and loyalty perks.
- Protect Your Finds: Proper storage prevents waste and keeps you prepared.
Clearance Finds, Financial Wins!
Clearance shopping doesn’t have to be overwhelming—it can actually be a lot of fun when you’ve got the right strategies in hand. By timing your purchases, using digital tools to track and stack deals, and planning ahead with a clear game plan, you’ll save big and shop smarter. Remember, every dollar saved adds up, bringing you closer to your financial goals. So go ahead, try out these tips, and enjoy the thrill of snagging amazing bargains without breaking a sweat. Happy shopping—and happy saving!
