Veteran Walmart employee reveals 5 shopping secrets to save money: 'It's easy savings, just takes asking'

Groceries and daily expenses somehow account for one of the major recurring expenses. We purchase products little by little, thinking it’s not much to pay for, but when we actually account for them, we realize we have spent a lot. However, this can be avoided or reduced if shopping for groceries is done smartly and frugally. A nine-year veteran who works at Walmart spilled the beans on how to achieve frugality and save those dollars when shopping at the store, per Go Banking Rates. These 5 tips can greatly change the numbers on your bill and it doesn’t get simpler. 

1. The clearance aisle is the way to go

You might be shopping at the clearance aisle, but did you know there’s more you can save depending on when you shop at those sections? The employee revealed, “Serious deals emerge every Tuesday when those aisles transform into hidden bargain goldmines.” They added that there are “yellow stickers ending in ‘5’ or ‘0’ marking deepest discounts.” If you want to save more, be observant of this little fact. “It’s like a special savings event happens weekly if you just know when and where to look,” the veteran noted. These can apply to home items, clothing and more. 

2. Mobile coupons are a life-saver

Walmart is giving you great prices, but looking at their digital efforts to lure you is worth a shot. The Walmart app offers many discounts and other offerings better suited to your taste. “The Walmart app is a goldmine for savvy shoppers. Activate push notifications there for clearance events, flash sales and exclusive mobile coupons,” the worker said. They noted that many deals are not always exposed in-store and could be a catch if you have the app. “It’s your ticket to deals and discounts right in your pocket,” they added. 

3. Price match always

No store wants you to run off to their competitors because you get a better price. Walmart does price matches as long as you show proof. So it doesn’t hurt to do a little research before you can go on your shopping spree. “Walmart’s price matching can be a secret weapon. Just show proof of the same in-stock product priced lower at a local brick-and-mortar competitor and they’ll adjust your previous charge,” the employee explained. This price matching can also be done using Amazon. “It’s easy savings — it just takes asking,” they said. 

4. Check ‘rollback’ discounts 

To many stores’ luck, shoppers see a discount tag and purchase almost immediately. The veteran worker noted that this could be a costly mistake. They mentioned that the yellow “rollback” discount tags “are not all created equally.” “Make sure to still compare supposed sale prices against previous pricing and competitor retailers to ensure you’re getting the best deal," they cautioned. Just a little more awareness and you save a couple of dollars, quite a deal. 

5. Off-peak hours are your friend

No shopper wants to indulge in crowded stores with items sold out and a crazy atmosphere. It turns out that shopping off-peak hours are also pocket-friendly. The employee suggested, “Want to shop in peace? Avoid weekends and evenings — the store is much calmer then.” Shopping with clarity helps you move through aisles in peace, giving you a better gauge of prices and even the time to ask for an employee’s assistance with a deal. “It’s incredibly smooth shopping once the after-work rush clears,” they noted.