Save Money ...Shop Smart

Save money and don't get frustrated.
It's better to give and not be peeved. Marshall Loeb or Marketwatch writes: Many of us inadvertently let retailers dictate when we go shopping, by waiting for special offers, promotional codes and coupons. But when you have a gift list, keeping up with sales dates for multiple items can be an exhausting obligation.
If you dread the holiday stampede and would like to make gift-giving more rewarding for yourself Consumer Reports has a list of five things to make shopping as hassle-free as possible:
Be proactive.
Don't wait to hear about sales. Retailers usually offer discounts on just a few productes anyway, so the chances are slim that you will stumble on a discount for something on your list. Instead, plan your buying and shop early in the day, as well as in the season. Morning crowds tend to be light, sales assistants more attentive and retailer Web sites more inclined to feature special discounts. In ht e event that you do find a sale you like, buy as soon as you can. Sales are first-come, first-serve, and "hot" gifts might be in shorts supply.
Compare before buying.
One of the most aggravating side effects of hurried shopping is when you have just purchased a product and then find it at a lower price. Even if you return it and get a refund, you won't be compensated for the lost time and legwork. Instead, do price comparisons ahead of time using shopping "bots," such as BizRate, DealTime, Google Product Search or Shopzilla. Be sure to sort by product price when searching.
Go online to save big.
In addition to price comparison, Web sites such as FatWallet.com and Dealtalker.com provide advance information about sales at stores and online merchants. Along with Web sites like CouponCabin.com and Coolsavings.com they also feature downloadable coupons plus discount or promotional codes.
Get a gift receipt.
Otherwise, a recipient who decides to exchange an item might be issued a gift card or store credit for the lowest price the item ever sold for. You'll also need the receipt for warranty service.
Take advantage of free shipping.
Many retailers offer it as an incentive to buy online, so if you are shopping on the Internet, it pays to do so early. Consumer Reports estimates that the deadline for free shipping from major retailers will expire around Dec. 18.
Hope these tips will make your shopping experience a money saving one..and less hectic. Happy Shopping!!!!