Top ten money-saving shopping tips (for men)

WIth the new John Lewis store open and Christmas just around the corner, men are facing a double whammy.

Research by Confused.com shows that men are paying an additional 26 per cent on top of what they should be for life insurance, all because they don't shop around for the best deal.

Men could learn a lesson or two from women when it comes to shopping around, but it's not just shopping for insurance where men are lagging, they could also do better at buying gifts, clothes and everyday items.

To give the chaps a helping hand, Confused.com asked money-saving shopping expert, Penny Golightly, to put together the top 10 shopping tips for men to help them prepare for hitting the stores and getting the best deals. Here they are:

1. Make a list

Whether you are shopping for groceries or going to a department store, it's essential to create a list as it makes it much harder to get sidetracked or forget anything vital. This is your main priority when approaching shopping!

2. Set a budget

Before any shopping takes place it's a good idea to work out how much money you have to play with; what you can afford and what's a reality. Once you've decided your budget it's imperative that that you work within it and don't stray as you could be caught out paying far more than you bargained for.

3. Pick your moment wisely

Never go shopping when you’re really hungry, sleep deprived or stressed. You’ll end up buying none of the things you originally set out to get.

4. It’s okay to haggle

Negotiation is part and parcel of all good business dealings when it comes to getting a better deal. You'd be surprised, but being personable, friendly and forthright can often result in significant discounts.

5. Ask for more

Always ask for extras to be thrown in with your purchase, as they will rarely say no. For example, when buying expensive electrical goods ask them to throw in some free connection cables. If you don't ask, you won't get.

6. Bring a buddy

A second opinion is always good when shopping, so pick someone who’s not afraid to weigh up the pros and cons and tell you like it is. Your buddy shouldn’t be a yes-man and should be someone that will help you find and choose the best deals available.

7. Cynics of the world unite

If an online deal looks too good to be true, it often is. Trust your instincts and find out more about a company and its offer before you hand over your credit card details. Use consumer review websites to gauge customer service, customer satisfaction and general standards of reliability.

8. Research pays

If something catches your eye, make sure to take some time comparing prices online before stepping out of your front door. This research is essential as not only will it help you get a good idea as to what different offers are out there, it will help your wallet as well.

9. Get appy

If you have a smartphone or tablet there are loads of handy money-saving apps out there to help you, most of which are free. Kelkoo Mobile, ShopSavvy (android), iHotUKDeals and Vouchercloud are all good for when you're on the go.

10. One last check

When shopping online make sure to check for related voucher codes, special offers, free gifts and cashback. You will be very surprised how even a two-minute Google search could save you some serious money in the long run.