10 Super Easy Ways to Save the Most Money at Target

Target has a reputation for stylish finds and solid loyalty perks. But if you're only shopping with your RedCard and calling it a win, you're potentially leaving a lot of savings on the table. The truth is that some of the best ways to stretch your budget at Target don't necessarily involve coupons or complicated workarounds.

Try these Target shopping hacks to get more for your money without changing your shopping habits. These strategies could help you save (no extra effort required).

You can combine Target Circle deals with manufacturer coupons (both paper and digital) for double savings. These discounts stack automatically when you check out, meaning you can save twice on a single item. Just scan your Target app and hand over your coupon at checkout. These discounts apply automatically, so you don't have to do anything fancy to qualify.

Always check the endcaps and Dollar Spot bins before heading to the checkout. Red clearance tags signal serious markdowns, sometimes as much as 50% off or more, and they can apply to everything from home goods to baby gear. Plus, the Dollar Spot carries seasonal items and small household staples that are cheaper than what you'd find in the rest of the store.

Target's price-matching policy could save you money with just a quick search. If you find the same item for less on a qualifying competitor's site (or even on Target.com), you can request a price match at the register or through customer service. No receipt is necessary for the adjustment, and it only takes a minute.

The Target app isn't just for convenience. You can use it to spot hidden deals that aren't always apparent at the store. While you shop, scan barcodes to uncover in-app promotions that aren't marked on the shelf. You can also use it to track sales cycles, especially on seasonal items, so that you can make your purchases at the time of the biggest discount.

Target frequently releases promo codes on its own website, and many of them work both online and in-store. You can use these discounts during checkout for extra savings, even if that item is on sale or has a Target Circle offer. Just search for the current codes before you're buying. It only takes a second, and you could potentially save quite a bit.

Target typically follows a steady markdown cycle. For example, electronics and baby gear often drop on Mondays, while apparel and home goods are normally mid-week, and beauty and auto items are released later. You're more likely to find deeper clearance discounts if you shop these items around these days. Sometimes, these discounts can be as high as 70% off.

Target often offers gift cards when you purchase select items. For instance, you may be eligible to receive a $15 gift card when you buy $50 in home essentials. These promos typically stack with sales and Target Circle savings, turning purchases you may be making already into future credits. Keeping an eye on weekly ads or in-app alerts can reveal opportunities to get this "bonus money."

Switching from name-brand to Target-owned labels (including Good & Gather, Threshold, and Archer Farms) can offer significantly lower prices for a very similar product. Target's in-house brands are designed to provide reliable quality without the name-brand markups. While it can vary from product to product, in many cases, loyal Target shoppers often find they're not sacrificing anything (and pocketing the difference instead).

Target is great at pulling you in with stylish displays (we see you, Dollar Spot). But staying disciplined and shopping with a list can help prevent unplanned spending. It isn't saving money if you didn't ned the discounted item to begin with, after all. So, take a second before picking out a cute mug or candle to put in your cart. You might find you don't really need it.

Target offers trade-in options for electronics and even car seats. This lets you turn items you no longer need into Target gift cards for future savings. For instance, you could trade in an old car seat to earn a 20% off coupon toward a replacement. This is a practical way to save on essentials you'd be buying anyway, without adding much effort to your regular shopping run.

Target makes it easy to save money on essentials with these innovative, low-effort strategies. Each tip offers an easy way to stretch your dollar during a typical Target run, so you can continue shopping at the store you love for less. 

Also, be sure to bring one of your best cash back credit cards when shopping to maximize your rewards even more.