Millions of people shop at Walmart every week, but many walk past savings opportunities without even realizing it. From hidden markdown clues to overlooked services and free perks, there are plenty of ways to stretch your budget if you know where to look.
While Walmart employees see these tips every day, they’re easy for the average shopper to miss. Before your next trip, keep these insider shopping secrets in mind; they could help you save money, discover extra benefits, and make the most of every visit.
Learn to Read Walmart’s Price Tags
A Walmart price tag can reveal more than just the cost of an item. Prices ending in .97 are often regular markdowns, while items ending in .05 or .01 may indicate deeper discounts, with .01 frequently signaling a final clearance price before the product disappears from the shelves.
Visit the Bakery Early for Markdowns
Fresh bakery items that didn’t sell the previous day are often discounted rather than thrown away. Shopping early gives you the best chance of finding reduced-price bread, donuts, pastries, and other baked goods before they’re gone.
New Parents Can Claim Free Baby Samples
Expecting parents can take advantage of Walmart’s baby registry program, which includes a complimentary welcome box. Depending on availability, it may include items such as diapers, bottles, wipes, formula samples, and other baby essentials.
Save Money Through Walmart’s Pharmacy
Walmart’s pharmacy offers a selection of generic prescription medications through its low-cost prescription program. Many eligible medications are available for as little as $4 for a 30-day supply or $10 for a 90-day supply, depending on the prescription.
Compare Prices Before You Check Out
Before heading to the register, it’s worth checking whether the item costs less on Walmart’s website. In some situations, online prices may be lower than in-store pricing, potentially helping you save even more.
Don’t Overlook Great Value Products
Walmart’s Great Value brand has built a reputation for offering quality products at lower prices. While manufacturing varies by product, many shoppers are pleasantly surprised by how comparable certain Great Value items are to national brands.
Refurbished Electronics Can Stretch Your Budget
Buying certified refurbished electronics is one way to save on expensive technology without purchasing used from an individual seller. Walmart’s online marketplace offers refurbished phones, tablets, computers, and televisions that are inspected and typically include a limited warranty.
Take Advantage of Grocery Delivery
If your schedule is packed, Walmart’s grocery delivery service can save valuable time. Instead of spending an hour shopping, you can have groceries delivered directly to your door in many areas.
Related: 8 Grocery Purchases That Frugal People Avoid Whenever Possible
Employees Receive More Than Just a Paycheck
Walmart employees receive shopping discounts, and long-term team members may qualify for additional benefits. Those who meet the company’s eligibility requirements can even earn a lifetime employee discount after many years of service.
Small Savings Add Up Over Time
Many of Walmart’s best money-saving opportunities aren’t advertised throughout the store. Paying attention to clearance tags, checking online prices, using pickup services, and taking advantage of available programs can add up to significant savings over the course of a year.
