How to Survive a Trip to the Mall
There's nothing to fear about a trip to the mall—as long as you plan ahead and shop smart.
Up next in Buying, Spending, & Shopping Tips (19 videos)
Don't head to the mall or click "add to my shopping cart" without checking out the buying, spending, and shopping tips in these Howcast videos.
You Will Need
- A shopping list
- Coupons and sale printouts
- Comfortable clothes and shoes
- A backpack, snacks, and water
- A debit card or cash
- Valet parking
Steps
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Step 1
Make a list
Before you go, make a list of everything you need to get.
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Step 2
Research coupons and ads
Go online to research coupons, bargains, and sales. Bring copies of advertised deals, including price matching, and make sure coupons apply to in-store sales.
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You may be able to find better deals online than you can in the store—in which case, stay home and save yourself the trip.
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Step 3
Dress comfortably
Dress comfortably in layers, and wear shoes that'll survive hours of standing and walking.
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If it's cold out, leave your heavy winter coat in the car. You won't need it in the mall, where it'll just weigh you down.
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Step 4
Consider valet parking
Consider paying for valet parking. It may be worth a few extra dollars to avoid the hassle of an inconvenient spot and a long walk.
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Step 5
Wear a backpack
Wear a nearly empty backpack, and bring only the essentials: your wallet, keys, coupons, phone, some water, and a snack. Stow smaller purchases in your backpack as you go to keep your hands free.
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Step 6
Make heavy purchases last
Save your heaviest purchases for the end, so you won't be loaded down while you shop.
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Step 7
Work your way down
In a multilevel mall, most people start on the bottom and work their way up. Avoid the crowds by doing the opposite.
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Step 8
Stay smart at the food court
Eat smart at the food court by staying away from sugar and grease. Drink water and keep your energy up by combining lean protein and healthy carbohydrates.
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Step 9
Use your debit card
Use cash or your debit card. You'll be more likely to stay within your means, and you won't pile on the credit card debt.
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Step 10
Go it alone
Unless you have a devoted friend who you shop well with, go it alone and stick to your list. When you're solo, you can stay on track and get the most out of the mall.
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The West Edmonton Mall in Alberta, Canada, has its own water park and is home to the world's largest indoor wave pool.
