Online vs Store Shopping: What’s The Best Option For You?

Here’s a mind-blowing fact that changed my shopping game forever: outlet stores mark up their online prices by an average of 15-20% compared to their physical locations! I discovered this little nugget during what I call my “great outlet investigation of 2023” – and boy, did it open my eyes to the wild world of outlet shopping strategies.

Look, I’ve been hunting for deals at outlet stores for over a decade now, and let me tell you, the difference between shopping online versus in-store is like comparing apples to… well, slightly more expensive apples. Understanding these outlet store secrets can literally save you hundreds of dollars each year, and trust me, your wallet will thank you later!

The Real Deal Behind Outlet Pricing Strategies

So here’s where things get interesting. Last summer, I was eyeing this gorgeous Coach purse at their outlet website for $280. Something felt off about the price, so I drove to the actual outlet mall – same exact bag was sitting there for $210!

The dirty little secret? Online outlet stores often inflate prices because they can. They’re banking on our laziness, basically. Physical stores have overhead costs, sure, but they also have immediate inventory they need to move. Plus, when you’re standing in a store, you can negotiate – try doing that with a website!

I’ve noticed this pattern across multiple brands. Nike outlets, Kate Spade, even kitchen appliance outlets follow this same playbook. It’s like they’re playing different games with the same merchandise.

My Epic Online Shopping Fails (And Wins)

Okay, confession time. I once bought what I thought was an amazing deal on outlet skincare products online – spent $150 thinking I was so smart. Two weeks later, my friend texted me a photo from the actual store showing the same products for $90. Ouch!

But here’s the flip side. Online outlet shopping absolutely crushes it when it comes to selection and convenience. I’ve found discontinued items online that were nowhere to be found in physical stores. Last month, I snagged a pair of designer jeans from Nordstrom Rack’s website that had been sold out everywhere else.

The key is knowing when to shop where. Online outlets are killer for hard-to-find sizes, seasonal clearance items, and when you’re dealing with brands that don’t have physical locations nearby.

Store Shopping: The Treasure Hunt Experience

There’s something magical about physically being in an outlet store that you just can’t replicate online. Maybe it’s the thrill of the hunt, or maybe it’s because I can actually touch and feel the quality of what I’m buying.

I remember this one time at a Premium Outlets location – I was casually browsing when I stumbled upon a rack of designer sweaters that were marked down 80%. The catch? They weren’t even listed in their online inventory. Store managers told me they often get exclusive merchandise that never makes it to the website.

Plus, you can try things on! I can’t tell you how many times I’ve returned online purchases because the fit was all wrong. When you’re in the store, you know exactly what you’re getting. No surprises when that package arrives.

The Hidden Costs Nobody Talks About

Here’s where online outlet shopping gets sneaky. Sure, that price looks great until you add shipping costs, potential return fees, and the dreaded “handling charges.” I’ve seen items that looked cheaper online end up costing more than the in-store price once all fees were added.

Physical stores have their own sneaky costs though – gas, parking fees at some malls, and let’s be honest, the temptation to grab lunch at the food court. But generally speaking, what you see is what you pay when you’re shopping in person.

Another thing that bugs me about online outlets? The return process is such a hassle. With store purchases, I can just walk back in and handle returns immediately. Online returns mean printing labels, repackaging, and waiting weeks for refunds.

Smart Strategies I’ve Learned the Hard Way

After years of trial and error, I’ve developed this hybrid approach that’s saved me serious cash. I research online first, then visit stores when possible. It’s like doing reconnaissance before the actual mission!

I also use store websites to check inventory before making the drive. Most major outlet centers have apps that show which stores have what you’re looking for. Game changer, seriously.

One more trick: I’ve found that calling stores directly often gets you better deals than their websites show. Store managers have more flexibility with pricing, especially on items that have been sitting around.

Pick Your Best Shopping Experience

The bottom line? Both online and in-store outlet shopping have their place in a smart shopper’s toolkit. I’ve learned to use online for research and rare finds, while hitting physical stores for the best prices and that hands-on experience.

Remember, these strategies work differently for different people and situations. What matters is finding the approach that saves you the most money while fitting your lifestyle. And hey, always keep those receipts – you never know when you’ll need to make a return!

Want to discover more money-saving shopping secrets and fashion finds? Check out our other articles at The Fashion Pick where we spill all the tea on getting the best deals without breaking the bank!