Poll: Most women consider themselves bargain shoppers

YONKERS, N.Y. — More than three-quarters of women regard themselves as bargain hunters, a new national poll featured in the May issue of ShopSmart magazine found.

For these women, saving money and the thrill of deal are the prime motivators, according to the poll, which was conducted by the Consumer Reports National Research Center. Among 1,010 female adults ages 18 years and older, 76% considered themselves bargain hunters, with 10% noting they enjoy the challenge of finding the best deal. Additionally, 65% of women typically opt to purchase items when there is a sale, versus buying items at full price.

But while 40% bargain shop because of a limited budget, and one-quarter of women noted they hate to overspend, more than 4-out-of-5 women (83%) still would search for a bargain if money was no object.

When it comes to savings, coupon usage is widespread, with 91% of those surveyed disclosing they use coupons to get a better deal. Among these respondents, 51% print coupons from the Internet, 29% use competitor coupons and 11% use coupons directly off their cell phone.

So where are these women shopping for the best deals? The top go-to locations named by respondents were mass merchandisers, dollar stores and discount stores.

The news comes at the heels of reports that disclosed looming food and gas prices this summer.