In Pennsylvania, shopping is just easier - and a lot of fun. Make it even better by brushing up on your shopping savvy. Here are 20 ways to shop smarter all across the Commonwealth.

1. Big Bargains. Bargain hunters will be impressed with how many factory outlets can be found in nearly every region of the state. Find out where to go by seeing our Unbeatable Bargains shopping trips.
   


2. Big Savings. Check out our special coupons search. This search tool allows you to look for money-saving offers at Pennsylvania destinations.
   


3. Just Big. Did you know that Pennsylvania is home to the largest mall on the East Coast? Plan for an extra long getaway to take it all in when you visit The Plaza and Court at King of Prussia.
   


4. Tax-Free School Clothes. No sales tax on clothing makes PA a great back-to-school shopping destination. Use our store search to find a store, outlet or mall with the latest styles.
   


5. What's in season? Are you planning a shopping trip during the autumn or winter months? Be sure to visit FallinPA.com or WinterinPA.com to learn how to make the most of these gorgeous times of year.
   


6. Stay Over. Look for travel packages based on a shopping theme. Berks County, home of the V.F. Factory Outlets, for example, offers Girlfriends Getaway, with specially arranged accommodations and store discounts.
   


7. Read up. Before shopping, look through magazines and circulars to see prices. A little research goes a long way in knowing when you've found a good deal.
   


8. Extra, Extra! When you find a really good buy, stock up! Especially with simple household items, such as drinking glasses, towels, candles, pillows, blankets, etc. It's always nice to have replacements on hand for these common items.
   


9. Coupons, anyone? If you're headed to a mall, such as Capital City Mall, check out the mall's web site before you go - sometimes they offer coupons online.
   


10. Only in PA. Many things are made right here in Pennsylvania. Crayola Crayons and Hershey's Chocolate to name a few. Why not go to the source? Take an insightful factory tour and take home some unique souvenirs. Visit FactoryToursinPA.com.
    


11. Mid-Winter Madness. When it's cold outside, the winter sales at malls are dynamite! Catch the great sales at places such as The Galleria or The Outlets at Hershey.
    


12. Look Up and Down. On store shelves, the more expensive items are often placed at eye-level. Be sure to look for alternatives that may be sitting on the higher and lower shelves.
    


13. Stay on Budget. Before you go out for a day of shopping, calculate the maximum amount you can spend that day. You will be able to spend more reasonably if you set a comfortable limit and keep it in mind as the cashiers hand you the receipts.
    


14. New to You. It may take a little extra planning, but visiting antiques shops or flea markets instead of a local mall is worth it. You can find a beautiful piece of the past to call your own, and have fun treasure hunting while you're at it. Visit AntiquinginPA.com to learn more.
    


15. Make Room. Check your car before leaving and make space for taking home your new buys. The same goes for your suitcase - pack light and save room for your new outfits!
    


16. Be a Preferred Customer. Sign up at your favorite store for offerings like mailing lists or frequent-shopper cards. Along with discounts and coupons, the store will keep you abreast of upcoming sales and give you an edge on the latest merchandise.
    


17. Make It Last. Always check for a warranty, especially with electronics and products that will need to endure heavy use.
    


18. Back First. Good bargain shoppers know to start at the back of the store and work their way to the front. It may be hard to resist the new seasonal line-up at the entrance, but the real deals are to be found further inside.
    


19. The Early Bird. Don't wait to hear Jingle Bells to begin your holiday shopping. Fall festivals, such as those in Bedford and Clarion, often have good craft shows. Colorful Pennsylvania hills and mild weather are the perfect setting for outdoor shopping.
    


20. Local Assistance. Finally, when traveling in Pennsylvania, stop at the PA Welcome Centers to find your bearings and get the scoop about local shopping hot spots.