Hey there,
Ever have one of those stretches where time just... disappears?
That’s been me lately. Between helping my daughter with her school project (why do 5th-grade volcanoes still erupt?), checking in on my neighbor’s cat while she was away, and trying to finally organize the avalanche that is my email inbox, I blinked, and ten days passed.
I wasn’t planning to pause, but life has a funny way of tossing little moments at you, one after another. And while I wouldn’t trade those moments, I did miss sitting down to share a few of my favorite tricks with you.
So today, I’ve got a good one: How I saved 40% on a Target trip without touching a coupon. Not even one of those peel-off shelf stickers. Let’s get into it.
“Just a Few Things…”
It started like most of my Target trips—innocent intentions, reusable bag in hand, a short list in my phone. I was running in for laundry detergent and toothpaste.
But a few aisles later, I had a cart with dish towels (cute ones I definitely didn’t need), snacks for the kids, a new water bottle (again), and a throw pillow that whispered, “Take me home.”
At checkout, I did what I always hope I remember to do: I opened the Target app. I noticed a $10 off $50 Circle offer, plus 15% off on household essentials, and I was paying with my RedCard, which gives an extra 5% off.
No clipping, no searching—just a little scroll, a few taps, and $23 off my total.
Not bad for someone who forgot to even check the list she came in with.
Here’s How the Stacking Works
This isn’t a fluke. Target’s system actually rewards this kind of casual savvy. Here’s how I do it:
Target Circle Offers – These are in the app and rotate weekly. I scroll through before I shop (or even while I’m in line). Tap “Save” and they apply automatically at checkout.
Dollar-Off Deals – Spend $50, save $10. Spend $25, save $5. These often show up under “My Offers” and can be used with product-specific Circle deals.
RedCard Perks – This gives 5% off everything, and yes, it stacks with the above two. Even clearance items.
Occasional Manufacturer Coupons – These pop up in the app too, and can layer on top of Circle offers.
No spreadsheets. No highlighters. Just a phone, two minutes, and a little intention.
I know we all have different spending habits and budgets, but I think we all want the same thing: to feel like we’re getting something extra—without having to hustle for it.
That’s what this trick gives me. A little high-five at the end of my Target run. And a little more in my wallet for the next one.
👉 Click your favorite! I’ll share the top pick in an upcoming issue—plus a few reader stories!
What’s Next?
Next time, I’ll share how I earn Target gift cards just for buying stuff I already need. Like toilet paper, shampoo, and snacks my family pretends they’re “saving for later” (but never do).
Talk soon,
Rachel Carnelle
P.S. Here’s the volcano we made 🌋👩🔬—what do you think? Be honest… it’s got that real 5th grade energy, right? 😄 Drop your thoughts in the comments below.
