I love shopping. Canberra, Australia’s capital, is not only a hub for politics and culture but also offers some great shopping opportunities. From high-end boutiques and specialty shops to local markets and shopping malls, Canberra has something for every taste and budget.
Discover new places and experiences
However, as with any city, finding the best prices can be a challenge, especially if you’re not familiar with where to shop or how to snag a bargain. Having spent quite a bit of time shopping in Canberra, I’ve picked up some useful tips and tricks on how to find the best deals. Whether you’re after fashion, souvenirs, or something unique, this guide will help you make the most of your shopping experience in Canberra, without breaking the bank.
1. Shop During Sales Seasons
One of the best ways to get incredible deals in Canberra is by shopping during the key sale seasons. Australia has two major sale periods that offer steep discounts: End of Financial Year Sales (around June and July) and Post-Christmas Sales (late December to early January). These sales cover everything from fashion and electronics to home goods and furniture, with discounts reaching up to 70% in some stores.
I’ve had some of my best shopping experiences during these times, especially at large shopping centers like Canberra Centre and Westfield Belconnen. Retailers are eager to clear out inventory, so you’ll find fantastic deals. For fashion lovers, this is the perfect time to grab designer clothes at a fraction of the price. Make sure to check the sale dates ahead of your visit and plan your shopping around them to maximize savings.
2. Visit Canberra’s Local Markets for Unique Finds
Canberra is home to several vibrant local markets, where you can find everything from handmade goods to locally-produced food and art. I love visiting markets because they offer something unique, often at more affordable prices than in the high-end shopping centers. Some of my favorite markets include:
- The Capital Region Farmers Market: Held every Saturday morning at Exhibition Park, this market is perfect for picking up fresh produce, artisanal food products, and unique crafts. The prices here are typically lower than in supermarkets, and the produce is often fresher.
- Old Bus Depot Markets: Located in Kingston, this indoor market is a great spot for finding local art, handmade jewelry, vintage clothing, and unique homewares. The prices are reasonable, and you’re supporting local artisans and small businesses.
Shopping at these markets not only gives you the chance to pick up unique souvenirs but also ensures that you’re getting great value for your money. I always find something special to bring home when visiting these markets, and the experience of supporting local creators adds to the joy of shopping.
3. Use Discount Voucher Websites
If you’re planning to shop at some of Canberra’s larger retailers or online stores, it’s worth checking out discount voucher websites before making any purchases. Websites like Groupon and Cashrewards regularly offer discount codes and cashback deals for popular brands and stores in Canberra.
Before I buy anything, I always search for discount vouchers or cashback options on these platforms. It’s saved me a significant amount of money, especially on items like clothing, beauty products, and dining experiences. You can easily sign up for these services, and the discounts can often be applied directly when you check out at your favorite stores.
4. Shop at Factory Outlet Stores
Factory outlet stores are another fantastic way to find discounted goods in Canberra. These stores typically sell brand-name products from previous seasons, and you can score high-quality items at lower prices. I always make a point to visit the Canberra Outlet Centre when I’m in town. Located in Fyshwick, it’s home to several outlet stores offering discounts on well-known Australian and international brands like Nike, Adidas, Cotton On, and Sass & Bide.
The discounts can range from 30% to 70% off, which is fantastic for anyone looking for high-end fashion at a fraction of the price. It’s always worth checking the outlet’s website before visiting, as they often have special promotions or seasonal sales.
5. Take Advantage of Student Discounts
If you’re a student, make sure to take advantage of the numerous discounts available to you in Canberra. Many stores, restaurants, and entertainment venues offer student discounts, especially if you show a valid Student ID or use a student discount program like Student Edge or UNiDAYS. For example, Book Grocer and JB Hi-Fi offer discounts on books and electronics, respectively, while The Coffee Emporium and Muffin Break offer student deals on food and drinks.
Even if you’re not a student, it’s always worth asking stores if they offer any discounts. Some businesses may have unadvertised deals, especially if you’re paying in cash or shopping in bulk.
6. Check Out Thrift Stores for Hidden Treasures
For those who love vintage finds, secondhand shopping in Canberra can be an absolute goldmine. The city has a range of op shops (thrift stores) that sell everything from clothing and accessories to furniture and collectibles. Some of my favorite secondhand stores include Vinnies and Salvos Stores in various parts of the city.
I’ve found some amazing bargains in these stores—everything from high-quality secondhand clothes to unique home décor items. The best part is that you can often get items at a fraction of the cost compared to buying them new, and it’s a great way to reduce your carbon footprint while shopping sustainably.
7. Compare Prices Online Before Shopping
Before heading out to the shops in Canberra, I always recommend comparing prices online. Platforms like PriceGrabber and Shopbot allow you to compare prices from multiple retailers for the same product. This is particularly helpful for electronics or gadgets, where prices can vary greatly.
Online comparison tools help you find the best deal, and in some cases, you may find that it’s more affordable to buy the item online, especially if there’s a promotion or free shipping option available. Just be sure to factor in delivery costs and times before making your final decision.
8. Check for Loyalty Programs and Membership Discounts
Many stores in Canberra offer loyalty programs that reward repeat customers with discounts, exclusive offers, and points that can be redeemed for future purchases. For example, David Jones and Myer both offer loyalty programs that give you access to exclusive sales and promotions. I’ve saved quite a bit of money by signing up for these programs and regularly checking my points balance.
Additionally, if you shop at specific retailers often, it might be worth looking into credit card programs or store memberships that offer cashback or further discounts on purchases.
9. Visit Canberra’s Shopping Malls During Off-Peak Hours
While Canberra’s major shopping malls like Canberra Centre and Westfield Belconnen can get busy, visiting during off-peak hours (typically weekdays, especially in the mornings or late afternoons) can lead to a much more relaxed shopping experience. Plus, many retailers offer in-store promotions or flash sales during these quieter times.
Another benefit of visiting malls during off-peak hours is that you’ll have more time to browse and take advantage of any additional sales assistants who may be available to help. During busy weekends, it can be harder to get assistance, and certain items may sell out quickly.
10. Sign Up for Store Newsletters and Alerts
One of the best ways to stay ahead of sales and special promotions in Canberra is by signing up for newsletters or email alerts from your favorite stores. Many shops send out exclusive offers, early access to sales, or notifications about new arrivals. I’ve often received discount codes or flash sale notifications just by being on a store’s mailing list.
For example, stores like The Iconic, General Pants Co., and Zara offer great deals and early access to sales through their email subscriptions. Additionally, platforms like TheFork and Eventbrite not only offer restaurant deals but sometimes have information on local events, festivals, and pop-up markets that feature exclusive discounts.
Best Platforms for Booking Travel and Shopping Deals in Australia
When planning a trip to Canberra, it’s not just about shopping. You’ll also need to secure your accommodation, transportation, and other experiences. Here are some platforms that I highly recommend for booking:
- Booking.com – Ideal for booking hotels, apartments, or even unique stays in Canberra. With competitive prices and a variety of choices, you can find great deals.
- Expedia – A great platform to book flights, hotels, and activities, especially if you’re planning your trip in advance.
- Skyscanner – A helpful tool for comparing flight prices to Canberra from anywhere in Australia or abroad.
- Visit Canberra – For exploring local events, activities, and tourism packages that will help you maximize your Canberra trip.
Canberra is a fantastic city for shopping, offering a wide variety of options for every taste and budget. By using these tips, you’ll be well-equipped to find the best deals in town while enjoying everything the city has to offer. Whether you’re hunting for unique souvenirs at the local markets or taking advantage of a seasonal sale at one of the major shopping malls, these strategies will help you save money without missing out on any of the exciting shopping experiences Canberra has to offer.
