3 Tricks to Saving Money at Target During the Holidays

Many people struggle financially during the holidays because they feel compelled to spend more money than they can comfortably afford to part with. The last thing you want is to close out the season with a pile of credit card debt, though. Doing that could make it so you're starting off 2024 on a very stressful financial note.

As such, it's important to shop strategically, which partially means focusing on retailers that are known for their competitive prices. Target is certainly one of them. And during the holiday season, you may find that the big-box giant has its fair share of discounts on offer.

But there are additional steps you can take to carve out money to save in the course of your Target shopping. Try these if you want to limit your spending as much as possible.

1. Shop after Cyber Monday

Many people do a lot of their holiday shopping over Thanksgiving weekend -- the period between Black Friday to Cyber Monday. But it can often work to your benefit to shop after that weekend.

The reason? If there's an excess of a given item, it may get marked down further, giving you the best price of the season. In fact, another tactic that could work to your advantage is shopping just a few days before Christmas. This move can be risky if there are specific items you want to buy. But if you're flexible, you might snag some last-minute bargains.

2. Take advantage of Target's price-matching policy

Target has introduced a generous price-matching policy for the 2023 holiday season. All items purchased between Oct. 22 and Dec. 24 are eligible for a price adjustment if you spot a price that's lower than what you paid. All you need to do is ask for your money back and show proof of your purchase as well as the lower price available.

If you're buying gifts at Target in the coming days, keep tracking prices even after you've brought them home. If a given price goes lower, you can request an adjustment in a store by bringing your original receipt. You'll also need to show proof of a lower price, which could come in the form of a printed ad or website screenshot.

For a price adjustment for online orders, you can start an online chat with customer service on Target's website or call 800-591-3869.

3. Use your Target RedCard for added discounts

The Target RedCard comes in credit card and debit card form. But no matter which one you have, you can save 5% on your Target purchases -- both in stores and online -- by swiping that card.

If you don't have a Target RedCard yet but expect to do a fair amount of holiday shopping at Target in December, you may want to apply as soon as possible. As an added bonus, your card will give you access to free two-day shipping on Target.com. That may come in handy if you end up having to order some Christmas gifts at the last minute.

Shopping at Target this season could help you tackle your holiday gift list in a relatively affordable fashion. But use these tips so you're able to enjoy added savings -- and increase your likelihood of closing out 2023 debt-free.