Alright, travel enthusiasts and credit card reward maximizers, gather ’round! As your dedicated deal detective, I’ve unearthed a potentially MASSIVE opportunity to stock up on travel essentials and everyday items at rock-bottom prices, all while racking up those valuable credit card points or cashback rewards.
The Hunt Begins: Walmart’s Online Clearance Section
I’m talking about Walmart’s online clearance section. Now, I know what you might be thinking: “Walmart? Clearance? Sounds… pedestrian.” However, before you dismiss this as irrelevant, allow me to explain why this is potentially FAR more lucrative than it initially appears, especially when combined with the right credit card strategy.
Walmart’s online clearance often features a seemingly random assortment of products, from electronics and clothing to home goods and, yes, even travel-related items. What makes it a goldmine is that the discounts can be surprisingly deep, frequently reaching 50%, 70%, and even 90% off the original retail price. Moreover, you can often find brand-name items, not just generic substitutes. This is not to say that everything will be useful to you, but it might be useful to others, and reselling is an option for many.
Sorting for Savings: Unlocking the Potential
The key to success in navigating Walmart’s online clearance is the “Sort by Savings” option. Don’t waste your time scrolling aimlessly through pages of items with only a few cents shaved off. Instead, head straight to the products with the most significant percentage discounts. This immediately focuses your attention on the deals with the greatest potential for profit, whether you’re buying to use, gift, or even resell.
To begin, go to Walmart.com, navigate to the clearance section, and be sure to sort by the highest percentage of savings. This strategy alone will significantly streamline your search. Additionally, use the filter options to narrow down the products you are looking for by category. It is important to note that this is a national deal, and the items will most likely be available to anyone within the United States.
What Treasures Await? Potential Travel-Related Finds
Now, what kind of travel-related treasures might you unearth? While the exact inventory constantly fluctuates, based on my personal experience with scouring these types of deals, here are some categories to keep an eye on:
* Luggage and Travel Accessories: Keep an eye out for discounted suitcases, carry-on bags, packing cubes, travel pillows, luggage scales, and portable chargers. Even if you don’t need them immediately, a high-quality suitcase at 75% off is always a good investment for future trips. You can also keep them in storage for emergency or disaster relief. * Electronics: Discounted headphones (noise-canceling are a traveler’s best friend!), portable Bluetooth speakers, universal travel adapters, and even e-readers can frequently appear in the clearance section. I personally never travel without noise-canceling headphones, and a good pair can make even the most cramped airplane seat bearable. * Outdoor Gear: If you’re an adventurous traveler, keep an eye out for deals on camping gear, hiking backpacks, water bottles, portable stoves, and other outdoor essentials. * Clothing: Clearance clothing racks often feature travel-friendly items like moisture-wicking shirts, lightweight jackets, comfortable walking shoes, and quick-drying pants. * Personal Care Items: Look for travel-sized toiletries, sunscreen, insect repellent, and first-aid kits. Stocking up on these essentials when they’re heavily discounted can save you a bundle in the long run. These are also great to donate if you will not use them.
Maximize Your Rewards: The Credit Card Connection
Okay, so you’ve found some fantastic deals. Now, let’s amplify the savings with a strategic credit card play. This is where things get truly exciting.
First and foremost, you need to decide if you would prefer to accumulate credit card points or cashback. I love my credit cards and personally prefer accumulating credit card points because I find I get more value out of them than cashback, but that may not be the case for you.
* Choose the Right Card: Select a credit card that offers bonus rewards on online purchases or at Walmart specifically. Many cards offer increased cashback or points on online spending, while others may have rotating categories that include Walmart at certain times of the year. * Consider Welcome Bonuses: If you’re not already committed to a specific rewards program, consider opening a new credit card with a generous welcome bonus. Meeting the spending requirements through your Walmart clearance purchases is a fantastic way to unlock those extra rewards. * Take Advantage of Shopping Portals: Always check if your credit card issuer or airline/hotel loyalty program offers a shopping portal bonus for purchases made at Walmart. These portals can provide additional points or cashback on top of your regular credit card rewards.
To further illustrate, let’s say you find a luggage set on clearance for $50 (originally $200!). If you use a credit card that earns 5% cashback on online purchases, you’ll earn $2.50 in cashback on that purchase. Furthermore, if you go through a shopping portal that offers 2x miles on Walmart purchases, you’ll earn additional airline miles or hotel points. It may not sound like a ton, but it will add up, especially if you are buying products that you were planning on buying anyway.
A Word of Caution: Due Diligence is Key
While these clearance deals can be incredibly enticing, it’s essential to exercise caution and do your due diligence before making any purchases.
* Compare Prices: Just because something is on clearance doesn’t automatically mean it’s the lowest price available. Take a few moments to compare prices on other websites or in local stores to ensure you’re truly getting the best deal. * Read Reviews: Before committing to a purchase, especially for electronics or travel gear, take a look at online reviews to get a sense of the product’s quality and reliability. * Check Return Policies: Familiarize yourself with Walmart’s return policy to ensure you can return the item if it doesn’t meet your expectations. * Be Mindful of Spending: It’s easy to get caught up in the excitement of finding great deals and overspend. Set a budget before you start browsing and stick to it. Remember, the goal is to save money, not rack up debt. * Double Check Product Condition: Clearance items may sometimes be products that have been returned, but the website should explicitly state that the product is refurbished. This does not mean it is not in good condition, just be aware and temper your expectations.
My Personal Strategy: How I’m Using This Deal
As your travel-hacking guru, I never recommend anything I wouldn’t personally use myself. So, here’s how I’m planning to leverage this Walmart clearance opportunity:
* Stocking Up on Travel-Sized Toiletries: I always hate paying full price for travel-sized shampoos, conditioners, and lotions. I’ll be scouring the clearance section for deals on these essentials to replenish my travel kit. * Replacing My Aging Luggage Scale: My trusty luggage scale has seen better days. If I can find a discounted replacement, I’ll snag it without hesitation. * Gifting Opportunities: I’m always on the lookout for potential gifts for friends and family. Clearance items can be a great way to find thoughtful presents without breaking the bank. * Using My Travel Credit Card: I plan to use my Chase Sapphire Preferred card to make all of my purchases, as it earns 2x points on travel and dining. I find these are the easiest to redeem, and I get great value out of them when redeeming them for luxury travel.
Don’t Miss Out: The Clock is Ticking
Clearance deals are often fleeting, and popular items tend to sell out quickly. I highly recommend checking out Walmart’s online clearance section sorted by savings as soon as possible to see what treasures you can unearth. Remember to combine these deals with a strategic credit card play to maximize your rewards and savings.
Happy hunting, and may your travels be filled with adventure, savings, and unforgettable experiences! Let me know in the comments below if you found any amazing deals! I’d love to hear about your success stories.
