3 Ways to Make the Most of Your Next Target Trip

Many people love shopping at Target because the selection is vast, the products are great, and the prices are usually pretty reasonable. But Target isn't exactly a discount retailer, so you won't necessarily save money in the course of your shopping unless you go in with a plan. Here are a few steps you can take to maximize your next Target visit -- and avoid leaving with a credit card tab you're uncomfortable with.

1. Get a RedCard

The Target RedCard comes in three forms -- credit card, debit card, and reloadable gift card. No matter which type you choose, you get the major benefit of saving 5% on your Target purchases. And there are no annual or monthly fees associated with your Target RedCard account.

Now, if you already have credit card debt, you may not want to apply for the credit card version of the Target RedCard. But if you shop at Target on a regular basis, then it could pay to apply for the debit or reloadable version for that 5% discount.

2. Join Target Circle

Target Circle is Target's rewards program. Signing up is free, and you'll earn 1% back on your Target purchases that you can redeem later on for future purchases. In fact, you get a full year to use the rewards you earn from Target Circle, and you'll be privy to occasional bonus offers that could allow you to earn extra points on the items you buy.

3. Make a list before you shop

There's a running joke that it's impossible to visit a Target store without spending a minimum of $100 on purchases in the process. But actually, it's not such a funny joke.

Target's vast selection can easily lead to overspending. And if you're already in debt, that could force you deeper into that hole, which isn't what you want.

Even if you aren't carrying debt at present, you don't want to risk racking any up in the course of shopping at Target. So to avoid that, go in with a list. Figure out exactly what you're looking to buy and stick to the items you've identified -- even if a number of sale items happen to catch your eye while you're loading up your cart.

Remember, Target puts items on sale all the time. So if you pass up an opportunity to buy something discounted during your next Target run, you can rest assured that another opportunity is apt to present itself in the future -- perhaps when you're in a better place to afford extra purchases.

Target is a fan favorite for sure, but it's important to shop there strategically. It pays to utilize these tips not just for your next Target trip, but for pretty much every visit you make to the store.

And remember, these tips apply to online Target shopping, too. You have the potential to fall into some of the same traps when you shop on Target's website, so make those lists and sign up for the right programs ahead of time to reap as much savings as you can.