Best (and worst) items to buy at big box stores – KENS5

“I often find that the prices of the partnership items are cheaper than the actual original brand,” said Trae Bodge, smart saving expert of TrueTrae. “If you are someone who really wants a new pair of Levi’s, you could go to Walmart and buy the Levi-Walmart partnership and save money.”

Decorative items are also a good buy.

“You can find lots of nice vases and fake flowers and mirrors and things like that, that are decorative, stylish and cool, but also very reasonably priced,” said Bodge.

Scratch furniture off your list.

“The quality doesn’t tend to be there, in my opinion,” said Bodge. “They do tend to look really nice and stylish, but in my experience, they do tend to fall apart sooner rather than is ideal.”

Say no to TVs.

“The deals just aren’t comparable to what I’ve seen at other places like say Best Buy or Amazon,” Bodge said.

Also, pass on electronic accessories like HDMI cables, phone cases and laptop bags.

“You’re better off shopping online,” Woroch said. “Amazon, eBay, those sites really have the better prices for the electronic accessories.”

Avoid gift cards.

“Order gift cards online because they are sites like Gift Card Granny, for instance, that offer discounts on gift cards,” Bodge said. “You should always check to see if you get some savings when you’re purchasing those gift cards rather than buying them at full retail value at your favorite big box store.”

No matter what you decide to buy, use your smartphone and a price comparison app to see if another retailer offers a better price. Then ask for a price match.

…

Consider doing curbside pickup, too. Sometimes stores will offer a coupon for choosing that option.