KARACHI, Oct 9: In countries like ours where price hike is crashing through roof, it really pays to be a smart shopper. The Eid shopping season is about to start, and being a smart shopper would mean buying more goods with the same amount of money and hence more joy and satisfaction.

These days it takes more than bargain-hunting to get the best deals. When you enter a market of clothes, shoes, jewellery or whatsoever, don't rush and take the time to be a smart shopper, and save lots of money.

The following tips might help you become a smart shopper and squeezing a juicy deal: Plan your spending and avoid impulse buys; advertised items are not necessarily the cheapest; to avoid crowds, do not shop after work, on paydays, or just before holidays; buy items before you run out of them; know the sales cycle in your area; just because an item is on sale, doesn't necessarily mean it is a good deal for your family; if you won't use it, don't buy it; due to volume discounts, larger stores are generally cheaper than smaller ones; your emotions affect your shopping. Be careful of the “I deserve it” mentality.

A smart shopper should buy at the end of the season and stock up when prices are low. A smart shopper should also shop alone. Other individuals will only help fill your shopping cart.

Know your prices, keep a price book, and compare, compare and compare. This is how your price book helps you.

It should be remembered that the larger is not always cheaper. Smaller also is not always cheaper. And beware of fancy packaging, as you have to pay more for it.

Remember the “Rule of Three”: If an item has three different ways it can be used, you will not be wasting your money. On golden rule, bargain hard. Try not to pay full price. For this purpose you have to shop defensively.

You are not getting something for nothing, so when paying hard earned money fully try to be satisfied with the deal. Do complain if it is genuinely warranted.

The smart buyers always decide how much they can spend, and stay within those limits. They take the time to shop around. Some retail items can be found in discount, outlet or warehouse stores.

Look for a good sale. Be willing to wait for an off-season sale, when necessary. Ask friends and family members for product referrals. They can help you find the best product for the best price.

Inspect products carefully before buying. Check for quality and durability. When in doubt, stick to reliable brand names. Check warranties carefully. Make sure you understand the policy. Make sure you understand extra charges, like delivery.

When in doubt, delay your purchase. A week's time will give you a fresh perspective. Remember that the cheapest buy is not always the smartest buy. Avoid compulsive buying. Avoid buying something just because it's on sale.

A golden rule of the smart shoppers is 'think before you buy!' Ask yourself `Do I need this item?’ Will it fit into my budget? Spending only Rs100 a week on things you don't need will cost you Rs4,800 in a year.

As a smart buyer try to find out all you can about a product before you buy it. Read about the product. Talk to people who own the product.

Ask the salesperson to show you how the product works. See if the product really does what the commercials say it does.

Don't be pressured into acting immediately or without the full information you need. Never give out your credit card number or personal, financial or employment information unless you know with whom you are dealing. Keep a record of any delivery that was promised.

If merchandise is damaged, contact the company immediately, and report any fraudulent activity to your nearest police station if you are not afraid of talking with policemen. —PPI