The Ultimate Guide to Shopping at Target

There's a number of reasons why Target has such a devoted following of shoppers. In addition to lots of weekly deals, the retailer also boasts a bevy of in-house brands, such as Good & Gather. And of course there's the Dollar Spot, which is a perfect place to snag seasonal items.

As great as the bull's-eye retailer can be, it's important to make sure you're getting the most benefits you can when shopping there. Below we've highlighted five Target hacks and shopping tips to help you shop like a pro, but be sure to check out our other Target guides, as well. You'll find the top categories to shop, info on Target's "buy now, pay later" options, and more.

5 Tips for Shopping at Target

1. Join Target Circle

Target Circle is the retailer's loyalty program, and it's a must for any regular bull's-eye shopper. You'll earn 1% when you shop at the store — you can redeem that amount at a future date — plus you get the opportunity to shop special deals every week. Additionally, Target will have special offers designed just for you and your shopping habits. You'll also receive a birthday gift in the form of 5% off a shopping trip.

2. Download the Target App

Another way to get more out of your Target experience is to download the app. Not only can you access your Target Circle offers when you sign in there, but you can also set up payment within the app and scan it at checkout, rather than having to worry about pulling out another card. Additionally, the app tells you about special Target online deals going on, and provides a simple way to browse the latest store ad.

Perhaps one of the best features of the app is that when you set your preferred store, the app will tell you if items are in stock and in what aisle you can find them — no more roaming around blindly trying to track something down!

3. Stock Up at the Right Times

Every week, Target has a few offers that let you earn an extra perk for stocking up on certain items. For instance, at the time of this writing, shoppers could score a $5 gift card when they purchased $20 worth of select beauty and personal care items.

As long as you need the products and are planning to stock up anyway, why not take advantage when this type of perk is available? It's not always related to practical items either — we also saw an offer for a $10 gift card with a $50 purchase of LEGO building sets at the time of this writing.

4. Use Pickup Services

Target offers a couple of methods of pickup, including in-store and drive-up services. With in-store pickup, you simply shop online at Target and place your order, and you'll receive a notification when it's ready to be picked up. Then you can head to your preferred store's service desk and grab your items.

SHOPPING NOW? Check out all the current Target deals!

Even better (in this writer's opinion) is the Drive Up option, which is Target's version of curbside pickup. You'll definitely need the app in this case, but once again, you do your Target shopping online and place your order, select Drive Up, and then wait for the notification that your order is ready. Once it is, you can use the app to let the store know you're on your way.

When you arrive, you'll be able to to let the store know you're there via the app, as well as provide details about your vehicle (style, color) so that the associate knows what to look for. A code will pop up on your screen that you'll have to show the associate, so they know they're delivering to the correct car. But the good news is you don't even have to lower your window — Target has made the process completely contactless. Once the associate confirms the code is right, they'll place your items in the backseat or trunk of your car, and that's it!

5. Buy With Your RedCard

Target's store card, called the RedCard, is a helpful bonus for any frequent bull's-eye shopper. You can opt to apply for credit or debit, and the differences between the two types of cards are minor. Either way, using the RedCard means you get 5% off purchases in-store and when doing your Target.com shopping, enjoy no annual fee, earn free 2-day shipping on thousands of items, and score more return time for purchases. You'll also receive access to RedCard exclusive extras, including special gifts, items, and offers. You could also earn early access to sales just by being a RedCard holder!

The only differences between the credit and debit options are that the latter will be linked to your existing checking account, and you'll also be able to withdraw up to $40 cash at checkout.

The Guides You Need for Shopping at Target

Here Are the Best Target Pet Supplies for Dogs and Cats

With a cute bull terrier as their mascot, it should come as no surprise that Target offers a wide array of pet products — especially for dogs and cats. If you're looking for items to buy for your furry friend, check out our guide to the best Target pet supplies. They include the following:

• Premium dog and cat food
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• Seasonal dog toys
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• Cat beds

How to Buy All of Your Easter Stuff at Target

The bull's-eye retailer has everything you need to celebrate Easter, from kids' Easter outfits, to baskets and candy, to the items for your holiday meal.

We give you a rundown of Target's Easter selection and offer tips for shopping it. Plus, we tell you about the clearance sales that usually arrive the day after Easter. You can expect to get up to 50% off right away on decor, accessories, and candy — just don't wait too long to shop!

18 Eco-Friendly and Sustainable Products at Target to Check Out

Target is one retailer that shines in making sustainable and eco-friendly products more accessible. For one thing, they've announced a Target Zero collection made up of items that are designed to reduce waste. But there's also a variety of eco-friendly and sustainable items at Target in general, including the following:

• Shampoo and conditioner
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• Laundry detergent
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• Toilet paper

5 Ways to Shop Target for Valentine's Day and Save

You don't have to spend a fortune to celebrate Valentine's Day. At Target, you can find whatever you need to make the red-and-pink holiday a happy one.

We look at ways you can shop Target for Valentine's Day and save. For example, you can browse gifts by recipient and budget, score candy deals when using same-day services, and check out the affordable offerings in the Bullseye's Playground section.

7 Ways to Save on Target Exercise Equipment

If you're a Target shopper, then you know you can get practically anything from the retailer, including a variety of exercise equipment. Whether you're seeking out a specific brand like Blogilates or don't even know where to start, Target exercise equipment often features great prices to help you kick off your new fitness routine. Check out our guide about how to save on Target fitness gear, including these tips:

• Shop Target's in-house brands
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• Join Target Circle
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• Look at the price per pound

Your Guide to Target 'Buy Now, Pay Later' Options

Target has partnered with Affirm and Sezzle to offer alternative payment methods that aren't traditional debit or credit cards. These "buy now, pay later" options make it easier for shoppers to stay on budget and pay at a pace that works for them, but not have to to wait to receive the products they need and want.

We go over when and how to use buy now, pay later at Target. Plus, we tell you about ways to save more when shopping there.

What to Expect From the Target Black Friday Sale

Target is one of the biggest stores for Black Friday because they sell such a wide variety of categories. Check out our guide on what to expect from the Target Black Friday sale, including the following:

• When the ad will release
• When the sale will begin
• What store hours will be

Your Guide to Shopping Disney at Target

Target has partnered with Disney since 2019 to open mini shops in select locations that offer a unique and interactive experience for bull's-eye shoppers. Considering their 2021 goal of more than 160 Disney at Target shops in place by the end of that year, the partnership is only growing.

These mini shops can be shopped in person, but Disney at Target is also available online for consumers who don't have one close by. Shop toys, clothing and accessories, books, movies, and more on your next bull's-eye run.

8 Tailgating Essentials to Buy at Target

However you prefer to tailgate — whether in the parking lot of your team's stadium or in the comfort of your own home — you'll need the right gear. Target has all the tailgating essentials you need and then some, from portable equipment to the groceries necessary to feed a horde of hungry fans. Get everything you need in one trip to the bull's-eye, including the following:

• Grills
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• Coolers
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• Generators

These Are the 18 Best Target Brands to Shop

Part of the love shoppers have for Target is based on their in-house brands. The bull's-eye retailer has dozens of these brands now, which offer everything from clothes, to home goods, to holiday decor. But which ones should you shop?

Our guide to the best Target brands gives you the lowdown, so you'll know what to fill your cart with on your next trip.

Your Guide to Shopping Target Kidswear

Whether your kids need uniforms or can wear whatever they want to school, Target has you covered with its in-house brands. They have styles to suit every kid's taste, at prices that are hard to beat. Our guide features helpful info on shopping Target kidswear, including these brands:

• Cat & Jack
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• Art Class
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• More than Magic

The 11 Best School Supplies to Buy at Target

Back to School season can be stressful for parents and kids. But Target can make it easier, thanks to its extensive selection of school supplies.

Check out our guide to the best Target school supplies to buy, whether you do your shopping long before the sales begin or during Target's Back to School event.

How to Shop a Target Patio Furniture Sale

Once you furnish your backyard with comfy patio furniture, you can spend long hours outside relaxing and entertaining. Plus, adding other items lets you round out your oasis and create a laid-back atmosphere you can enjoy year-round. You don't want to have to spend a fortune outfitting this space, though, and that's where Target comes in. Our guide offers tips for shopping all kinds of backyard items, including:

• Patio furniture and fire pits
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• Grills
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• Gardening supplies

How to Shop Apple at Target: Get the Best Deals on the Devices You Want

If you aren't visiting the electronics section at your local Target store, you might be missing out. That's especially the case if you're a regular user of Apple products.

Whether you'd like to get a new iPhone from Target, an iPad, or an Apple Watch, check out our guide on how to shop Apple at Target. We go over the kinds of items you can find, the deals you can expect, and the best time of year to buy these products.

What to Buy at Target: 10 Things Not to Miss When You Shop

It's easy to stop by Target for one or two things, then end up leaving with a cartful of items. With affordable prices, exclusive brands, and nearly anything you might need, the bull's-eye retailer is an easy 1-stop shop. But while it can be tempting to stock up on everything, there are some items you absolutely shouldn't miss. Our guide goes over these must-haves, including:

• Online health and beauty brands
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• Good & Gather food
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• Dollar Spot items

How to Shop and Save on Target Bedding Sets

Bedding is another item to land on our list of must-buy products at Target. It's because the retailer offers such a huge variety of sizes, patterns, materials, and colors.

While waiting for white sales in January can be a good way to find discounted bedding, Target is always a good bet. The bull's-eye retailer already has excellent prices on bedding — prices that get even better when Target online sales roll around. Check out our guide to learn more.

When Do Target Christmas Decorations Go on Sale?

Seasonal decorations are always worth checking out at Target. And the store makes it easy, separating items both in-store and online into their own category. We usually recommend waiting until after the holiday to buy Christmas decorations, but if you shop at Target, you can stock up earlier. Check out when Christmas decorations go on sale at Target to see the best prices and kinds of items you can expect, including:

• Prelit trees
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• Lights
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• Ornament kits