How to Score the Best Deals Online After the Holidays

Although the 2021 holiday shopping season is in the past, it doesn’t necessarily mean you should curb your spending as the new year gets up and running. In fact, January is one of the best times of the year to score deals online. 

As you scour the internet in search of deals, here are five tips you can use to your advantage:

1. Search for Sales

This is where it all starts. You know what you’re shopping for and a basic idea of how much you want to pay. But what you don’t know is what type of deal you’re able to score. This is where your research skills come into play.

Many of the most popular brands — along with those flying under the radar — have big sales after the holiday season. They do this for many reasons, ranging from liquidating old products to attracting new buyers in the new year. 

It’s simple. If you’re not looking for sales, you probably won’t find sales. And that’ll lead you to pay full price when you don’t have to.

2. Use Coupon Codes

A simple coupon code is often the best way to score a deal online. And that holds true at any time of the year.

At DealDrop, we collect and share the best coupons, deals, and promo codes for thousands of brands. Examples include:

• 50% off your next purchase
• Free shipping
• Buy one get one free
• Buy and save $10
• Get 25% off + free shipping

With more than 80% of consumers regularly using coupons, you’re in the minority if you don’t do the same. Retailers are well aware of this, so they do their best to circulate coupons and discount codes to engage buyers and boost sales. 

Tip: Retailers often release updated coupon codes when the calendar changes to a new year. This makes January one of the best months for saving.

3. Comparison Shop

Neglecting to comparison shop can result in you paying more money for the same or lesser item — and that’s not a mistake you want to make. With the power of the internet, it only takes a few extra minutes to comparison shop.

For example, if you’re in the market for a new Dell computer, there’s no shortage of retailers to consider. Will you get the best deal shopping directly on Dell.com? Could you save money by purchasing through a retailer, such as Target?

Do your best to find the same item for sale at three to five retailers. Make note of the retail price at each store, as well as any available coupon codes. This will give you peace of mind when it comes time to complete your purchase.

4. Ask About Price Matching

This goes along with point #3 above. Comparison shopping may lead you to find the same item priced differently at multiple retailers. So, if you have a preferred store that’s charging a higher price, here’s what you should do.

• Contact the customer service department (live chat is most convenient)
• Provide proof of the competitor’s lower price
• Ask them to price match (or beat the deal)

Some stores actively promote price matching while others don’t say anything about it on their website. However, if you make mention that you’ll buy from a competitor, there’s a good chance the person you’re speaking with will step in to win your business.

Remember this: It doesn’t cost anything — outside a few minutes of time — to get an answer. You never know if a company will price match until you ask.

5. Stay Active on Social Media

Do you follow your favorite brands on social media? Do they often share information on product sales or announce flash sales?

Make a list of your favorite brands and follow them on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram. Even if you don’t come across any after-holiday deals, it’s still a great way to stay current with product releases, company news, and other important details.

Final Thoughts

Even if you spent a lot of money during the holiday season, there’s still a good chance you’re in the market for a few items in the new year. If that sounds familiar, the five tips above will put you on the right track to getting what you want at the most affordable price.

Do you often find yourself in the market for after-holiday deals? Would you add any other tips to this list?