Not every deal is a winner, but with the right outlet store shopping tips, you can spot real savings and walk out feeling like you struck gold.
Pepaw loves a good outlet-store adventure because it mixes bargain hunting with a little mystery. Pepaw has spent years learning the rhythms, tricks, and patterns of outlet shopping, and now he’s sharing the strategies that save him the most money.
Understand How Outlet Pricing Really Works
Pepaw always reminds folks that outlet stores fall into two categories: “true outlets,” which sell overstock, last season’s items, or returns; and “factory stores,” which manufacture lower-cost versions specifically for outlets. Both can offer great deals, but you need to know which one you’re walking into.
True outlets often offer the biggest markdowns because you’re buying items originally intended for full retail. Factory stores still provide discounts, but Pepaw checks the tags carefully. Sometimes, the prices aren’t much different from those at regular sales at traditional stores.
He says, “It’s still a deal, but only if it beats what you’d pay anywhere else.”
Explore Pepaw’s Checklist for Comparing Online Deals Like a Pro for insights on outlet vs. retail sales.
Shop Clearance Sections Inside the Outlet Itself
Most shoppers walk into an outlet and assume everything on the floor is already discounted. Pepaw heads straight for the clearance racks at the back of the store, where markdowns get stacked on top of the outlet pricing. This section often features the best finds, including last-season shoes, kitchenware, coats, luggage, and bedding, all marked down 40–70% off outlet prices.
Pepaw checks for color-coded tags, as many outlet chains use color systems to determine the depth of the discount. A quick glance at the weekly signage reveals which colors offer the biggest savings.
He also inspects items closely for flaws. A tiny scratch is fine; a broken zipper or chipped cookware? No thanks.
To help you decide, see Why Pepaw Swears by Buying Generic (and When to Skip It) for shopping tips.
Know the Best Times to Shop Outlet Stores
Pepaw always plans his outlet trips around the markdown cycle. Weekday mornings are ideal because shelves are freshly stocked, and crowds are minimal. Holiday weekends, especially Memorial Day, Labor Day, and Black Friday, bring the biggest blowout sales, but Pepaw recommends going early to snag the top-tier deals before they’re picked over.
He also loves shopping off-season. Winter coats in spring, patio décor in fall, or boots in summer. These are all deeply discounted because the stores want them sold quickly. Pepaw says, “Off-season buying is how you win the outlet game.”
When stores prepare for inventory resets, prices drop even further. Pepaw chats with staff to learn when those dates hit. They’re usually happy to share.
For extra bargain stops, don’t miss Pepaw’s Favorite Stores for Hidden Clearance Finds.
Compare Prices Before You Celebrate a “Deal”
Not every outlet price is truly a bargain, so Pepaw checks retail values before making a purchase. There are pros and cons of outlet stores to consider. A quick online search shows whether the outlet deal actually beats the cost of the same or similar item sold by discount chains.
Pepaw stays especially alert when it comes to clothing and shoes. Factory versions may appear identical to retail items, but they often utilize different materials and construction methods. He checks stitching, soles, zippers, and fabric weight to make sure the quality matches the price.
He reminds folks that a deal isn’t a deal unless it saves you money and gives you something that lasts.
