Walmart is known for its wide range of products at competitive prices, making it a go-to destination for many shoppers looking to save money. However, even at a store known for its low prices, there are numerous strategies you can employ to maximize your savings. Whether you’re shopping for groceries, clothing, electronics, or household items, here are some tried-and-true tips to help you save money at Walmart.

1. Utilize the Walmart App

The Walmart app is an essential tool for any savvy shopper. It offers a plethora of features designed to help you save money. Here’s how you can make the most of it:

• Price Checking: Use the app to scan barcodes and check prices, ensuring you’re getting the best deal available.
• Digital Coupons: The app frequently offers exclusive coupons that you can apply directly to your purchases.
• Store-Specific Deals: Find out about deals and discounts available at your local Walmart store.

2. Take Advantage of Walmart’s Price Matching Policy

Walmart’s price matching policy can be a powerful way to save money. If you find a lower price on an identical product from a competitor, Walmart will match that price. Here’s how to use it effectively:

• Research Competitors: Before heading to Walmart, check prices on websites like Amazon, Target, and other major retailers.
• Keep Proof Handy: Bring proof of the lower price (such as a screenshot or printed advertisement) to show at checkout.

3. Shop During Sales and Clearance Events

Timing your shopping trips to coincide with sales and clearance events can result in significant savings. Keep an eye out for:

• Black Friday and Cyber Monday: These annual events offer some of the deepest discounts on electronics, toys, and more.
• End-of-Season Sales: Shop for clothing and seasonal items at the end of their respective seasons when prices are slashed to make room for new inventory.
• Weekly Rollbacks: Walmart frequently rolls back prices on various items. Check the weekly ad for these special discounts.

4. Buy Generic or Store Brands

Walmart’s Great Value and Equate brands offer high-quality products at a fraction of the cost of name brands. Consider switching to these store brands for items such as:

• Groceries: From canned goods to snacks, Great Value products can help you cut your grocery bill.
• Household Items: Equate offers affordable alternatives for health and beauty products, cleaning supplies, and more.

5. Use Walmart’s Savings Catcher

Although Walmart discontinued its Savings Catcher program in 2019, similar features are integrated into the Walmart app. By scanning your receipts, the app can compare the prices you paid with those of local competitors and refund you the difference if a lower price is found. This automated price-matching ensures you always get the best deal.

6. Buy in Bulk

Purchasing items in bulk can lead to significant savings, especially for non-perishable goods. Walmart offers bulk sizes of:

• Groceries: Snacks, canned goods, and pantry staples.
• Household Items: Toilet paper, paper towels, and cleaning supplies.
• Personal Care Products: Shampoo, soap, and toothpaste.

7. Take Advantage of Walmart’s Free Services

Walmart provides several free services that can help you save money:

• Free Two-Day Shipping: Orders over $35 qualify for free two-day shipping, saving you money on delivery fees.
• Walmart Pickup: Shop online and pick up your order in-store for free, avoiding shipping costs altogether.
• Free Assembly: Many Walmart locations offer free assembly for items such as bicycles and furniture, saving you time and money.

8. Use Cash Back and Rewards Apps

Cashback and rewards apps can help you earn money back on your Walmart purchases. Popular options include:

• Ibotta: Earn cashback on groceries and other items by scanning your receipts.
• Rakuten: Receive cashback when you shop online through the Rakuten portal.
• Fetch Rewards: Scan receipts to earn points that can be redeemed for gift cards.

9. Shop Smart with Walmart Credit Cards

Walmart offers two credit cards that can help you save money:

• Walmart Rewards Card: Earn 5% back on Walmart.com purchases, 2% back on in-store purchases, and 1% back everywhere else.
• Walmart Mastercard: Offers similar rewards with the added benefit of being accepted anywhere Mastercard is accepted.

10. Sign Up for Walmart+

Walmart+ is a subscription service that offers several benefits designed to save you time and money:

• Free Delivery: Enjoy free delivery from your local store on orders over $35.
• Fuel Discounts: Save up to 10 cents per gallon at participating fuel stations.
• Mobile Scan & Go: Skip the checkout line by scanning items with your phone as you shop.

11. Look for Hidden Clearance Items

Walmart often has clearance items that aren’t always marked clearly. To find these hidden deals:

• Scan Barcodes: Use the Walmart app to scan item barcodes. Sometimes, items are cheaper than their displayed price.
• Check End Caps: Clearance items are often placed on end caps (the displays at the end of aisles).

12. Utilize Walmart’s Layaway Program

During the holiday season, Walmart offers a layaway program that allows you to pay for items over time without incurring interest. This can be a great way to manage your budget while still securing gifts and other seasonal items.

13. Join Walmart’s Email List

By signing up for Walmart’s email list, you’ll receive notifications about special deals, promotions, and discounts directly in your inbox. This ensures you never miss an opportunity to save.

14. Buy Refurbished Electronics

Walmart offers refurbished electronics at significantly lower prices than new items. These products are tested and certified to ensure they work like new, providing great value for your money.

15. Shop at Walmart Neighborhood Markets

Walmart Neighborhood Markets are smaller stores that focus primarily on groceries and household essentials. Prices at these locations can sometimes be lower than at larger Walmart Supercenters, offering another way to save on everyday items.

16. Stack Coupons with Rollbacks

Combining manufacturer coupons with Walmart’s rollback prices can result in substantial savings. To do this effectively:

• Collect Coupons: Use websites, newspapers, and the Walmart app to gather coupons.
• Check Rollbacks: Look for items on rollback and apply your coupons to maximize savings.

17. Buy Seasonal Items After the Season Ends

Purchasing seasonal items like holiday decorations, garden supplies, and summer gear after the season ends can lead to significant discounts. Stock up on these items when they go on clearance to save money next year.

18. Participate in Walmart’s Trade-In Program

Walmart’s trade-in program allows you to exchange old electronics, such as smartphones and tablets, for Walmart gift cards. This can be a great way to save money on new purchases.

19. Use Walmart’s Auto Care Center

Walmart’s Auto Care Centers offer competitive prices on automotive services like oil changes, tire rotations, and battery replacements. Taking advantage of these services can save you money compared to other auto service providers.

20. Shop with a Plan

Impulse buying can quickly blow your budget. To avoid this, always shop with a plan:

• Make a List: Create a shopping list of what you need and stick to it.
• Set a Budget: Determine how much you can afford to spend before you start shopping.
• Avoid Shopping When Hungry: You’re more likely to make unnecessary purchases when you’re hungry, especially in the grocery section.

Conclusion

Saving money at Walmart involves a combination of smart shopping strategies and taking advantage of the various tools and services the retailer offers. From using the Walmart app and price matching to shopping during sales and utilizing free services, there are numerous ways to make the most of your shopping experience. By implementing these tips, you can stretch your budget further and get the best value for your money every time you shop at Walmart.