If you are in Florida on Spring Break this week and you’re looking to do some shopping, there are a few places you definitely need to check out and a couple places you should avoid!
Orlando Premium Outlets is a MUST STOP if you want to do some discount shopping. They have two locations in Orlando and a great selection of stores at both including Forever 21 (my fav), Crocs, Gap Outlet, Loft Outlet and more. Most of them are cheaper than just hitting up your local mall, but don’t buy expensive items on impulse! If you have a smart phone, download a bar scanner app like “Barcode Scanner” by ZXing Team for Androids and use it to scan the bar code of pricey items to check out the prices online. It has saved me from overspending dozens of times! Just 30 secs or less of research will show you quickly if you can get it cheaper online.
If you are in Orlando and want to grab some souvenirs, some of the gift shops are absurdly priced and have a horrible selection. Best thing to do is head to Kissimmee for your gift shopping because almost all of the gift shops in Orlando are way overpriced. I found at least three great gift shops on the W Irlo Bronson Memorial Hwy / 192 in Kissimmee. Head south, out of Orlando on 535 until you reach 192 and go left (East). There are numerous gift stores up there, a great Flea Market with discount bags, jewelry, tees and more as well as a huge Goodwill store too!
Not all Outlet Malls are actually a bargain. They say “outlet” but they are fake! One place you should avoid shopping is Lake Buena Vista Factory Outlet Stores in Kissimmee, right outside Orlando near Disney World. Everything is full price, nothing is a bargain and they have extremely small and limited sale sections.
If you want more shopping suggestions or want me to check out specific stores while I’m in the Orlando area, leave a comment and let me know!