Delaware tops list of America’s biggest bargain hunters this holiday season

Delaware is home to America’s biggest bargain hunters this holiday season, with 85 percent considering themselves one.

A nationwide poll of 5,000 adults who celebrate Christmas found 70 percent of those in the Blue Hen State like finding festive deals – specifically when buying gifts (59 percent), chocolates (33 percent), and food (26 percent).

While 43 percent have bought holiday presents strategically this year, to maximize their balance of loyalty points.

Kentucky narrowly took second place, typically spending four-and-a-half hours each week searching for bargains.

And Mississippi came third with 83 percent seeing themselves as a bargain hunter.

It also emerged 64 percent of those in Mississippi dread having to buy anything at full price – with 73 percent of residents from Kentucky also feeling that way.

A spokesperson from Virgin Red, which commissioned the research, said: “Everyone loves a bargain, so it’s interesting to see which states came out on top.

“It’s the best feeling when something you have been looking at for a while becomes discounted, or when you can redeem loyalty points to make a special experience or milestone trip a reality.”

The research also found using loyalty programs was among the nation’s favorite way of saving money around the holiday season (38 percent).

With the average American signed up to three different schemes to help their cash go further.

But as many as 40 percent have accrued loyalty points they haven’t yet redeemed – estimated to be worth as much as $546.

With 55 percent planning to save up for something big, rather than spending points as soon as they receive them.

However, 43 percent base many of their everyday purchases on whether they can get some sort of reward from their spending.

Others like comparing prices online before buying (49 percent) and taking advantage of free delivery offers (41 percent), according to the research carried out through OnePoll.com.

The research also found 56 percent are worried about the cost of the holidays this year, and 83 percent are trying to be savvy due to the ongoing high prices in the US.

The spokesperson from Virgin Red added: “With rising prices and tighter budgets, it’s great to see shoppers getting creative.

“Loyalty programs with travel perks are a great place to start as you can literally turn your everyday spending into incredible experiences and it seems like many Americans are now catching on.”

TOP 10 BARGAIN LOVING STATES:

1. Delaware
2. Kentucky
3. Mississippi
4. Virginia
5. Arkansas
6. South Carolina
7. Maryland
8. Tennessee
9. Colorado
10. Pennsylvania