Millennial Money: A new set of shopping tips in the pandemic

Prior to March, shoppers would go to the mall or grocery store — without masks — and scout out the latest sales.

Now, shopping looks much different.

“The way consumers approach shopping has understandably changed as a result of COVID-19,” said Katherine Cullen, senior director for industry and consumer insights at the National Retail Federation, in an email.

“With stay-at-home orders and mandatory store closures, many consumers have utilized digital channels and tools in ways they may not have before.”

As how we shop changes (think mobile shopping and buying online, picking up in store), we have to adapt as shoppers, too.

The best prices and first available inventory go to consumers who are more than just shoppers. They’re also deal-hunting detectives and strategists.

Here’s how to shop smart in the midst of the pandemic.

PUT ON YOUR DETECTIVE HAT

While some in-demand products, such as hand sanitizer and toilet paper, have become easier to find after initial shortages at the onset of stay-at-home orders, items like disinfecting wipes still aren’t readily available.

To get a shot at any popular products, sign up for in-stock alerts, recommends Saoud Khalifah, CEO of Fakespot, an artificial intelligence platform that analyzes e-commerce transactions and online reviews.

If an item isn’t available, retailers typically offer a field to input your email address. You’ll get notified when the item is restocked and can jump on it right away.

Expand your search, too, advises Charles Lindsey, associate professor of marketing at the University at Buffalo School of Management in New York. He says the first wipes he was able to score were off the beaten path, not at a chain store.

“Diversify your consideration set in terms of the stores where you shop,”...