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"The first thing is to find the right store, like Daffy's, TJ Maxx or Marshall's, and then actually go into the clearance rack, because that's where the true bargains are," said bargain shopper Gina Scalia.
Good Housekeeping says you can increase your savings by combining a store sale with a print coupon, Web code or other type of discount.
"Go to Google and type in the store name that you're looking for and 'coupon code.' You'll come up with lists and lists of sites. www.Retailmenot.com is one of my favorites. There's also www.couponcabin.com and www.couponmountain.com," said Good Housekeeping's Kelli Grant.
Make it a point to find out when you're favorite stores mark down their merchandise.
"Just ask a store employee. This is not state secrets here. For the most part, they're going to tell you, 'hey, we've got a sale that starts Thursday.' If you come in Thursday morning, you get first crack of it," said Grant.
Look for the best deals at thrift stores on Monday and Tuesday. That's because most donations are dropped off on weekends.
For the best deals at thrift stores, shop in high-income zip codes where you're more likely to find well-known brands at a fraction of the cost.
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