For many shoppers, returning unwanted or defective items is a normal part of shopping. However, some are shocked to find that their return privileges have been revoked or put on “watch”. Across major retailers, companies are increasingly using sophisticated tracking systems to identify and blacklist customers they deem to be excessive or suspicious returners. Here’s how it all currently breaks down.

Why Do Stores Blacklist Some Returners?

Here are some common sense reasons why a store might flag a shopper:

Frequent Returns: Customers who return a high percentage of their purchases might be seen as abusing the system.

Returning Worn or Used Items: Known as “wardrobing,” this is when shoppers buy an item, use it, and then return it.

Returning Without a Receipt: Some stores track customers who repeatedly return items without proof of purchase.

Returning Stolen Items: Criminals attempt to return shoplifted goods for cash or store credit.

Suspicious Behavior: Some return bans result from algorithmic decisions based on shopping patterns that retailers consider risky.

PRO TIP: HOW TO AVOID GETTING BANNED

If you frequently return items, follow these tips to minimize the risk of being blacklisted:

Keep Your Receipts – Providing a receipt reduces the likelihood of being flagged.

Space Out Your Returns – Avoid making multiple returns in a short period.

Avoid Large or Frequent Returns – Returning multiple high-ticket items can trigger tracking systems.

Use Store Accounts or Loyalty Programs – Many stores offer more flexibility to loyal customers.

The Major Stores That’re Banning Some Returners Right Now

I’m trying to talk to someone from all of the stores mentioned below about getting banned or the threat of a ban.

I’ve talked to a few and included their stories below, but if you have personal experience with any of these stores, please contact me.

1. Target

Target monitors returns closely and has been known to ban customers who make frequent returns, especially without a receipt.

Customers who rely on Target’s return policy for non-receipt returns may eventually hit a limit.

Target’s Policy: Each non-receipted return is tracked and capped at $150 per year, per customer.

Common Reasons for a Ban: Frequent returns, excessive receipt-less returns, or high-value returns.

Tracking System Used: Target reportedly uses The Retail Equation (TRE) to analyze return data.

REAL LIFE EXAMPLE: TARGET GETTING STRICTER ON SOME RETURNS

I chatted with Tina from Stockton, CA, about her recent experience at a Target store.

She thought she had cracked the system with Target’s generous Cat & Jack return policy, which allows worn-out kids’ clothes to be returned within a year.

But after one too many trips to customer service with scuffed-up sneakers and worn leggings, she was politely warned that any future return of worn clothing were going to be denied.

The reality check made her rethink how often she was treating Target like a clothing rental service, and now she tries to pass down outgrown items instead of automatically returning them.

She said, “I thought I had an unlimited pass, but apparently, even Target has a limit—guess I’ll just donate their old clothing now.”

2. Walmart

Walmart has a decent return policy, but it also tracks customers to prevent return fraud.

In some cases, Walmart has banned shoppers from making any returns, even for defective items.

Common Reasons for a Ban: Frequent high-dollar returns, excessive non-receipt returns, or suspicious refund requests.

Tracking System Used: Walmart uses The Retail Equation (TRE) to track returns and flag unusual patterns.

Some customers report being banned after returning expensive electronics or multiple high-ticket items in a short period.

30% RETURNS COULD TRIGGER WALMART BAN

I talked with Theresa, a mom of 3 from Texas, who recently got her Walmart account banned for excessive returns.

Over the course of a couple years, she made around 250 online purchases and returned or canceled about 75 of those orders—sometimes because she changed her mind, other times because Walmart shipped her the wrong item.

One day, she logged into her Walmart account and was met with an unpleasant surprise: her account had been deactivated. Confused, she called customer service, only to be told that her high return rate violated Walmart’s return policy, and as a result, she was banned from making future returns. Even her Walmart+ membership had been revoked.

Frustrated, she tried to explain that many of her returns weren’t her fault—some items arrived broken, while others were out-of-stock substitutions she didn’t want. But Walmart stood firm. Her case was closed, and there was no way to appeal the decision.

3. Best Buy

Best Buy has a very strict 15-day policy for returns. Customers who frequently return items or cancel orders may find themselves restricted.

Common Reasons for a Ban: High-value returns, returning items missing accessories, or multiple returns within a short timeframe.

Tracking System Used: Best Buy has partnered with The Retail Equation (TRE) for return monitoring.

In some cases, customers have received emails or in-store notifications that they are no longer allowed to make returns at Best Buy.

REAL LIFE EXAMPLE: BEST BUY IS WATCHING YOU

I spoke with Eric from San Diego, CA about his recent “return experience” with Best Buy.

In recent years, he has leaned pretty heavily on Best Buy’s return policy for big tech purchases, especially when buying laptops for his college aged kids.

But after returning two laptops that didn’t meet expectations, a pair of headphones his son didn’t like, and a TV that was “too big for the wall” all within a few months, he was pulled aside at customer service.

A manager politely but firmly told him that his return activity was being monitored and that he could face restrictions if it continued.

“I wasn’t trying to abuse the system—I just have bad tech luck. But message received. I’ll think twice before ‘testing out’ another laptop,” he says.

4. Sephora

Sephora is another retailer that monitors return activity and may ban customers who return too often. Since makeup and beauty products are personal-use items, excessive returns raise red flags.

Common Reasons for a Ban: Returning used makeup, excessive online order returns, or frequent returns with no receipt.

Tracking System Used: Sephora uses internal data analytics alongside The Retail Equation (TRE).

Some customers have received notifications that they are no longer allowed to return items, even if they were legitimate purchases.

5. Home Depot

Home improvement stores like Home Depot also track returns, particularly on high-value items like tools, appliances, and electronics.

Common Reasons for a Ban: Frequent returns of high-dollar tools or items without receipts.

Tracking System Used: Home Depot reportedly uses The Retail Equation (TRE) and internal monitoring systems.

Customers making multiple high-value returns, even with receipts, have reported being flagged and banned from further returns.

REAL LIFE EXAMPLE: TREATED LIKE A SCAMMER

I spoke with DIYer Louis about his recent experience with The Home Depot.

After returning a few extra light fixtures, the wrong shade of paint, and a power drill he never ended up using, he was shocked when the cashier told him he couldn’t return anything else for 3 months—because he’d been flagged.

Even with receipts in hand, he felt he was treated like a problem customer and told his returns were “excessive.”

“I wasn’t flipping tools for profit—I just made some mistakes. But apparently, Home Depot has decided I’m a return criminal,” he says.

6. Lowe’s

Lowe’s has a return-tracking system that monitors high-value returns and customers who frequently return items without receipts.

Common Reasons for a Ban: Frequent no-receipt returns, abuse of the return policy, or suspected fraud.

Tracking System Used: The Retail Equation (TRE).

7. CVS and Walgreens

Pharmacy chains like CVS and Walgreens also track returns. Due to health and safety concerns, they have strict policies for returns, particularly on prescription medications, beauty products, and opened items.

Common Reasons for a Ban: Returning opened beauty or health products, excessive return frequency, or refund abuse.

Tracking System Used: Internal tracking combined with The Retail Equation (TRE).

Some shoppers have been banned after multiple returns of personal care items, even when unopened.

8. Amazon

Amazon, while known for its customer-friendly policies, has also been reported to ban accounts that make too many returns.

Common Reasons for a Ban: Excessive returns, returning high-value items frequently, or abuse of free returns.

Tracking System Used: Amazon uses internal analytics to track return behavior.

Customers who return a large percentage of their purchases have had their accounts flagged, restricted, or even permanently banned.

REAL LIFE EXAMPLE: BUSY MOM GETS THE DREADED EMAIL FROM AMAZON

I talked with Melissa, a busy mom from Austin, TX, who received an unexpected email from Amazon warning her about too many returns and the risk of account limitations.

The email said, “We’ve noticed an unusually high number of returns on your account. Please review our return policies to avoid potential account limitations.”

She hadn’t realized her frequent returns—mostly kids’ shoes, bad-fitting clothes, and impulse buys—were being tracked, though she did admit to returning about 25% off the stuff she bought.

The warning made her rethink her shopping habits, leading her to double-check sizes, read reviews carefully, and resist impulse purchases.

“Amazon basically told me, hey, cool it with the returns, or we might have to break up,” she says.

9. Apple

Apple has a strict return policy for devices and accessories, and excessive returns may result in account restrictions.

Common Reasons for a Ban: Returning multiple Apple products within a short time, abuse of return periods, or returning used devices.

Tracking System Used: Internal tracking through Apple IDs and purchase history.

Some customers have reported being blocked from making future purchases after too many returns.

REAL LIFE EXAMPLE: APPLE IS BUCKLING DOWN

I talked with a Olivia, a college student from Georgia about her run-in with the return policy at Apple.

After exchanging an iPhone for a different color, returning an iPad she never used, and swapping AirPods that didn’t fit well—all within a 6 months—she got an unexpected warning.

A store employee pulled her aside and told her that Apple “closely monitors return patterns” and that she might be restricted from future returns.

“I wasn’t running a black-market Apple resale business—I just changed my mind a few times. But I guess Apple expects you to commit, no take-backs,” she says.

10. Nike

Nike has a policy that allows for returns within 60 days, but excessive returners have reported being banned from future returns.

Common Reasons for a Ban: Multiple returns in a short period, frequent exchanges, or suspected abuse of return policies.

Tracking System Used: Internal analytics and customer purchase tracking.

11. Victoria’s Secret

Victoria’s Secret tracks returns and may ban shoppers who frequently return lingerie, bras, or swimwear.

Common Reasons for a Ban: Returning high volumes of worn or unworn merchandise.

Tracking System Used: Internal data monitoring and The Retail Equation (TRE).

12. REI

REI is known for its generous return policy, but the company has also started banning customers who it believes abuse returns. The screenshot above is the exact email they’re sending those they feel have abused their policy.

Previously, REI had a legendary “no questions asked” return policy, but due to excessive abuse, they recently changed their policy and now track returns closely.

Common Reasons for a Ban: Excessive returns of used outdoor gear or clothing.

Tracking System Used: REI uses internal tracking systems and customer account purchase history.

Some REI shoppers have reported having their membership revoked after returning too many items, particularly expensive outdoor gear like hiking boots, tents, or bikes.

If REI believes you are using their return policy as a “rental program” (buying items, using them for a trip, and then returning them), they may permanently ban you from making future returns or even shopping at REI.

WHAT’S THE TIPPING POINT FOR REI?

I was recently included in a news story talking about REI returns. The gal that was the focal point of the story had been banned from making any more REI returns.

To give you an idea, since 2014 she spent about $11,000 on REI gear and had returned about $3,100 of that.

So after doing a little math, if you’re buying frequently from REI, and returning about 25%-30% of the stuff you buy, there’s a good chance you’re going to be getting the same “banned” email.

The Retail Equation (TRE): The Software Behind Return Blacklists

One of the most “controversial” return-tracking tools used by major retailers is The Retail Equation (TRE).

This software analyzes return patterns and assigns a risk score to each customer.

If a shopper’s return activity exceeds an unspecified threshold, they may be banned from returning items altogether.

How TRE Works:

Data Collection: TRE collects data from participating retailers every time a customer makes a return where they have to show their ID. This happens most often when making returns without a receipt or when you’re beyond the stores return window, which means you’re returning for store credit.

Pattern Recognition: It evaluates how often someone returns items, the value of the items, and whether a receipt was provided.

Scoring System: If a customer’s return behavior is flagged as excessive or suspicious, TRE may alert the retailer, leading to a temporary or permanent return ban.

TRE operates in secrecy, meaning consumers are often unaware that their returns are being tracked until they are banned.

PRO TIP: HAVE YOU BEEN WRONGLY BANNED?

Even customers who genuinely follow store policies can be blacklisted if their return habits trigger TRE software.

You have the right to request a copy of your return history from TRE to see what triggered the ban.

How to Request Your Report:

• Visit The Retail Equation’s website.
• Look for the Return Activity Report Request form and pick Online, Phone, or Email.
• Submit your request and review your history.

Ask the Reader: Have you wrongly been banned from making returns? What was the store and what was the final outcome? Let me know as I’m trying to get an account from shoppers for all the stores included in this article.

By Kyle James

Sam’s Club is a treasure trove of savings, but not all deals are obvious. To truly maximize your membership, or save on a new membership, you need to know the best-kept secrets that can help you save even more. These insider tips will absolutely change the way you shop at Sam’s Club forever.

Shop Online Without a Membership

Believe it or not, you don’t actually need a membership to shop at Sam’s Club.

Non-members can shop online, though a 10% surcharge applies.

However, there’s a workaround—if a Sam’s Club member purchases a Sam’s Club gift card for you, you can use it to shop in-store without needing a membership.

PRO TIP: TOP NAME-BRANDS MAKE MANY MEMBER’S MARK PRODUCTS

Similar to the Kirkland brand at Costco, many name-brand manufacturers make the Member’s Mark in-house brand products for Sam’s Club.

They include the following:

• Batteries = Energizer
• Bottled Water = Niagara Bottling
• Jeans = Wrangler
• Dog Food = Purina
• Peanut Butter = Peter Pan (ConAgra)
• Cheese = Sargento

Decode Sam’s Club Price Tags to Know When to Buy

Big thanks to loyal reader Chris for shedding light on how to read price tags at Sam’s Club’s.

Here’s what you need to know to spot deals and clearance items like a pro.

Prices Ending in 1 (e.g., $8.71 or $125.01) = Clearance & Sale Items. It’s a clearance item and marked down for a final sale and typically represents a great deal.

Decode the Shelf Tag Letters

Look at the upper right-hand corner of the shelf tag, where a letter next to the item number provides key insights:

A = Active Item – A regularly stocked product.

N = Never-Out – Always expected to be in stock.

C = Canceled – Will no longer be carried. If it’s not already on clearance, markdowns are coming soon.

S = Seasonal – Available for a limited time, but may be restocked a few times before it’s gone.

O = One-Time Buy – Limited stock, one shipment only. If you want it, grab it now—it likely won’t be restocked.

Score Extra Discounts on Display Models

If an item’s shelf tag has a C (for Canceled) and it’s the last one in-store, ask a manager for a discount on the display model. You can often negotiate at least 20% off!

Watch the Date on the Price Sign

At the bottom of the price sign, you’ll find a date indicating when the sign was last printed. This is a great way to track markdowns and time your purchase for the lowest possible price.

Shoutout to Jenn for this super useful tip.

PRO TIP: SHOP ON A TUESDAY OR WEDNESDAY

Shopping at Sam’s Club on a Tuesday or Wednesday means fewer crowds, shorter checkout lines, and a more relaxed shopping experience compared to the weekend rush.

Midweek shopping also increases your chances of finding fully stocked shelves, especially for high-demand items like fresh produce, meats, and popular household essentials.

With a quieter store environment, you can take your time to compare prices, browse markdowns, and spot hidden deals without feeling rushed.

Score a Club Membership for 50% Off

Sam’s Club frequently runs promotions where new members get 50% OFF the cost of membership.

The current offer expires January 31st, 2025 and gets you a 1-year Club Membership for only $25 (50% off).

I’ll be sure to keep this article updated with the newest membership coupon.

Use the Scan & Go App to Save Time and Money

Sam’s Club members have a game-changing tool at their fingertips: the Scan & Go feature in the Sam’s Club app.

This app not only eliminates the hassle of checkout lines, but also unlocks exclusive digital discounts you won’t find at the register.

Here are the steps to make it happen:

1. Open the Sam’s Club App – Download and sign in with your membership.

2. Scan Items as You Shop – Use your phone’s camera to scan barcodes while adding items to your cart.

3. View Instant Savings – Some products have digital-only discounts that apply automatically.

4. Pay Instantly in the App – When you’re done shopping, complete your purchase with your phone.

5. Skip the Checkout Line – Show your digital receipt to an associate at the exit, and you’re on your way.

PRO TIP: USE SCAN & GO AT SAM’S GAS STATIONS

Members should definitely use the Scan & Go app for fuel purchases, making fill-ups faster and more convenient.

That means no more waiting in line at the pump or fumbling with your card at the payment terminal—just scan, pay, and fuel up effortlessly.

How to use Scan & Go for fuel:

1. Open the Sam’s Club App and select Scan & Go.
2. Choose “Fuel” when you’re at a Sam’s Club gas station.
3. Scan the QR Code on the pump to activate it.
4. Select your payment method and confirm your purchase in the app and start fueling.

Also, some Sam’s Club locations offer exclusive Scan & Go fuel discounts, so keep an eye out for extra savings.

Take Advantage of Tire Services at Sam’s Club

Sam’s Club offers free tire repair to all active members, regardless of where the tires were purchased.

So whether your tires came from Sam’s Club or another retailer, take advantage of this valuable perk.

You get lifetime tire repair services for all types of tires, as long as the tire has at least 2/32 inches of tread remaining and is deemed repairable.

Tire repairs at most shops range anywhere from $20 to $30 per repair, meaning that even a single flat tire could make your Sam’s Club membership pay for itself.

In addition to free tire repair, Sam’s Club provides other complimentary auto services to help you maintain your vehicle:

Air pressure check – Properly inflated tires improve gas mileage and ensure a smoother ride. Stop by Sam’s Club for a free air pressure adjustment.

Tread depth check – Worn-out tires can be dangerous, especially in wet or icy conditions. Sam’s Club will measure your tread depth to ensure your tires are safe to drive on.

Battery check – If your car is slow to start, Sam’s Club offers free battery checks to assess whether your battery is in good condition or needs replacement.

PRO TIP: HAVE A WALMART GIFT CARD COLLECTING DUST?

Maybe you don’t shop often at Walmart. Or perhaps you often forget to use your gift cards.

If you have unused Walmart gift cards laying around, get them in your wallet and use them the next time your shopping at Sam’s Club.

Yes, Walmart owns Sam’s Club. Yes, your Walmart gift cards will work at Sam’s.

Sam’s Club Unofficial 7-Day Price Protection Policy

Sam’s Club does NOT have an official price adjustment policy that guarantees refunds for price drops within a specific timeframe.

BUT….many members have reported to me that often receive a price adjustments within 7 days of purchase, this practice is subject to the discretion of individual clubs.

But I’m here to tell you that YOU HAVE NOTHING TO LOSE by trying. This works especially well if you plan to buy high-ticket electronics or appliances that you may return later.

If a price drops shortly after your purchase, and a price adjustment is not honored, consider returning the item and repurchasing it at the lower price.

With that said, employees don’t want to deal with a “return and rebuy” situation and will often give the price adjustment on the spot, especially if you’re persistent.

PRO TIP: TAKE ADVANTAGE OF SAM’S RETURN POLICY

Their return policy is pretty darn good and worth understanding.

You get unlimited return days on the majority of products they sell.

Plus, I was told by an employee that they give you an “unofficial” lifetime warranty on Member’s Mark items that lets you return it for a full refund whenever you want, no questions asked.

Ask the Reader: What not completely obvious Sam’s Club savings hack did I miss? Let me know in the comments. 

By Kyle James

Savvy shoppers know that not every purchase at Target is a good deal. Some items offer excellent value, while others are better bought elsewhere. Thanks to the help of a dozen Target employees, I take a deep dive into the best and worst things to buy at Target.

First…let’s talk about the 10 BEST things to buy at Target…

1. Home Decor

Target’s home decor section is a treasure trove for anyone looking to spruce up their living space on a budget.

In particular, their in-house brands like Threshold, Opalhouse, and Hearth & Hand with Magnolia offer stylish, high-quality pieces at reasonable prices.

“Home decor clearance on our in-house brands is the best at the end of each season, usually in late January, July, and October,” says Tina, a friendly Target employee I chatted with. “Also, always check the end caps of aisles—that’s where we put most of the markdowns.”

PRO TIP: USE TARGET CIRCLE REGULARLY

Target’s free loyalty program, Target Circle, offers personalized deals, coupons, and 1% back on purchases.

Regularly check the app for discounts on items you’re planning to buy.

2. Generic and Store-Brand Products

Target’s private labels, like Good & Gather, Up & Up, and Market Pantry, are known for their quality and affordability.

These brands often match or exceed the quality of national brands but cost significantly less.

“Honestly, just go for the Target brands,” says Emily, a Target employee. “Good & Gather, Up & Up—they’re basically the same as the name brands, but your wallet won’t hate you for it.”

PRO TIP: TARGET BRANDS HAVE A 1-YEAR RETURN POLICY

The Target return policy stipulates that all of their store brands come with an extremely generous 1-year return policy.

3. Seasonal and Holiday Items

Whether it’s Halloween costumes, Christmas decorations, or back-to-school supplies, Target’s seasonal section is well-stocked with unique and affordable items.

“After Christmas, our holiday decor goes on clearance, starting at 50% off and eventually dropping to 70% or even 90% off,” shared a Target employee. “If you want the best selection, shop right after Christmas, but if you’re looking for the biggest savings, wait a few days into January.”

PRO TIP: SHOP CLEARANCE AND END CAPS

Target’s clearance items are often tucked away on end caps (the shelves at the ends of aisles). These sections can be a goldmine for heavily discounted items.

4. Clothing and Accessories

Target’s apparel offerings have significantly improved over the years. With brands like Universal Thread, A New Day, and All in Motion, you’ll find stylish, comfortable, and affordable clothing for the whole family.

“The clearance rack is a goldmine,” says an employee I chatted with from the apparel department. “Keep an eye out for yellow or red clearance stickers on tags—these often indicate multiple markdowns, and the lower the last digit (e.g., $9.98 vs. $9.99), the closer the item is to being fully discounted.”

5. Beauty and Personal Care Products

The beauty section at Target is a goldmine for affordable and effective products. They carry a mix of drugstore staples and premium brands, including an expanding selection of clean and cruelty-free options.

“Kristin Ess products are a customer favorite,” said Maria who restocks beauty products. “Many people come here specifically for those because they’re salon-quality but really inexpensive.”

6. Baby Essentials

Parents love Target for its reliable and affordable baby products. From diapers and wipes to baby food and gear, Target’s baby section is stocked with trusted brands and competitively priced store-brand alternatives.

“The best way to save is to watch for Target’s gift card promotions,” according to an employee I talked with. “We often run deals like spend $100 on diapers and wipes, get a $20 gift card.”

PRO TIP: CAR SEAT TRADE-IN COUPON

Twice a year, Target hosts car seat trade-in events where you can bring in old or expired car seats and receive a 20% coupon.

The coupon can be used in-store or online for a new car seat, stroller, travel system, or other select baby gear.

Exact dates may vary, so keep an eye on Target’s website, app, or social media for announcements.

7. Kitchenware

If you’re looking to upgrade your kitchen without breaking the bank, Target is an excellent place to shop. Brands like Made By Design and Room Essentials offer functional and stylish kitchen tools, cookware, and dinnerware at affordable prices.

“Kitchenware goes on clearance at the end of each season, especially after big holidays like Thanksgiving or Christmas,” says Sarah, a Target employee. “Check the clearance end caps in the kitchen section, and don’t forget to look for sales on Target-exclusive brands like Threshold or Hearth & Hand.”

PRO TIP: DON’T FORGET ABOUT A PRICE MATCH

Target’s price match policy allows you to get the best price if you find a lower price at select competitors. Always check online before making a big purchase.

8. Electronics and Tech Accessories

Target frequently runs promotions on electronics and tech accessories, making it a good spot to snag deals on items like headphones, smart home devices, and gaming accessories.

“Always check for clearance deals on end caps near the electronics section,” shares Alex, a Target employee. “We also mark down display models or older versions when new ones come in—just ask a team member about open-box deals.’”

PRO TIP: LOOK FOR APPLE PROMOS

Be sure to keep an eye on Target’s weekly ad for gift card promotions, things like “Buy an Apple product and get a $50 gift card”  are fairly common.

9. Books and Board Games

Target’s book section often features bestsellers and exclusive editions at discounted prices. It’s also a great place to pick up board games and puzzles, especially during sales or with Target Circle offers.

“The exclusive editions are a big draw,” says an associate from the entertainment section. “People often come here for special covers or bonus content.”

PRO TIP: TIMING MATTERS

Target’s markdown schedule varies by department, but many items are marked down on specific days of the week.

For example, electronics are often discounted on Mondays, while clothing sees markdowns on Tuesdays.

10. Groceries

While not the cheapest grocery store, Target’s food section can be a convenient option for pantry staples, snacks, and frozen foods.

“The best way to save is to use Target Circle,” says Amanda, a Target employee. “There are always discounts on pantry stuff, fresh produce, and even meat. Also, check for buy-one-get-one-free deals and gift card promotions, like ‘Spend $50 on groceries, get a $10 gift card’.”

And now the WORST things to buy at Target…

1. Furniture

While Target’s furniture is stylish and affordable, the quality can be hit or miss.

“Our furniture is great for decoration,” says a store associate. “But for long-term or heavy use, customers might want to look at specialized furniture stores.”

2. Fresh Produce and Meat

Target’s grocery section is convenient, but its fresh produce and meat are not always the best value.

“Our selection is smaller,” says a grocery associate. “It’s better for quick pickups than for stocking a full freezer.”

PRO TIP: SIGN-UP FOR THE RED CARD

The Target RedCard gives you 5% off every purchase, free shipping on most online orders, and an extended return period.

If you’re a frequent shopper, the savings can add up quickly.

3. Fitness Equipment

Target is often not the best place for fitness equipment because the selection is limited and the quality often sucks compared to items from dedicated fitness retailers.

Expert advice on choosing the right gear is usually lacking too.

“Target’s fine if you just need a yoga mat or some light dumbbells,” says Emily, a Target employee. “But if you’re trying to build a legit home gym, you’re gonna want to go somewhere that actually knows fitness gear.”

4. High-End Electronics

While Target offers decent deals on smaller tech items, it’s not the best place for high-end electronics like TVs, laptops, or cameras.

“Target’s not really the place for high-end stuff,” says Josh. “We don’t carry a lot of the premium models, and the prices are usually the same as everywhere else—just without the perks. We’re better for mid-range stuff or when we have a good deal.”

PRO TIP: LOOK FOR OPEN BOX DEALS

Target often discounts open-box or slightly damaged items, particularly in electronics and furniture. These items are usually in good condition and can save you a significant amount.

Also, you can often negotiate the price on these items and ask for an additional 15% discount. Most managers want this stuff out of the store and are willing to work with you on the price.

5. Toys

Target’s toy section is fun to browse, but the prices are not always competitive.

“Honestly, Target’s toy prices aren’t that great most of the time,” says Amanda. “You can usually find the same stuff cheaper online or during big sales at other stores. Plus, we don’t always have the best selection, especially around the holidays when things sell out fast.”

6. Tools and Hardware

Target’s selection of tools and hardware is limited and often priced higher than stores like Lowe’s, Home Depot, or Harbor Freight.

“If you’re buying tools at Target, you’re probably just desperate,” jokes Mike. “We’ve got a hammer, a screwdriver, and maybe some duct tape.”

PRO TIP: DON’T FORGET TO STACK COUPONS

Target allows you to stack manufacturer coupons with store coupons and Target Circle offers. Combine these with your RedCard discount to maximize savings on a single purchase.

7. Jewelry

While Target’s fashion jewelry is affordable and trendy, its fine jewelry offerings are not the best value.

“Our jewelry is great for casual wear,” shares a jewelry department worker. “But for special occasions, customers tend to shop elsewhere.”

8. Specialty Kitchen Appliances

Target’s prices on specialty kitchen appliances, like espresso machines or stand mixers, are often higher than those at warehouse clubs or online retailers.

“We carry the basics,” says a team member. “But for high-end appliances, people often shop online or at specialized stores.”

PRO TIP: ALWAYS SHOP AFTER CHRISTMAS

Holiday-themed merchandise is ALWAYS heavily discounted at Target in the days following Christmas making it a great time to shop.

Stock up on decorations, candy, and other seasonal items for next year at up to 90% off.

9. Pet Supplies

While Target carries a decent variety of pet products, they’re not always the most cost-effective option or have the best selection.

“I’ve heard that online stores have better deals,” says a pet supplies associate. “But people like the convenience of grabbing items here.”

10. Party Supplies

Target’s party supplies are convenient but often more expensive than discount retailers like Dollar Tree or Dollar General.

“We hear this from customers occasionally,” says an employee from the seasonal section. “But our selection is good if you’re already here shopping.”

Ask the Reader: Do you agree or disagree with these good and day buys? Let me know in the comments what I missed.

By Kyle James