How to Save Money on American Girl and Bitty Baby Dolls

My daughter requested an American Girl Bitty Baby doll for Christmas this year. I know the dolls are very high quality, but they also come with a fairly high price tag. I have a few ideas of how you can get the girl in your life the doll of her dreams without going out of your budget.

When purchasing the doll, consider getting a second hand doll. There are tons of gently used Bitty Baby and American girl dolls on Ebay.com and Craigslist.com. With Ebay, you can buy the doll and have it shipped to your door. With Craigslist, you could save on shipping and buy the doll locally. You may also want to check children's consignment shops, or ask around your neighborhood. If you are really looking for a budget doll, there are some very low priced ones on Ebay that children have played with a lot or that may have some slight damage like staining to the body. I opted to buy a used doll in excellent condition. I purchased my daughter a gently used Bitty Baby doll. It was the exact one she wanted with her matching hair and eyes for about half the cost of a new doll. The doll is in such wonderful shape that no one would ever know it was second hand.

If you don't like the idea of purchasing a second hand doll, think about purchasing the doll new. Americangirl.com often has special offers like free shipping when you spend a certain amount. On Black Friday 2010, they offered a selection of items for fifty percent off. If you purchase the doll new, you might be able to buy secondhand accessories for it on Ebay or craigslist.

Are you looking for an even less expensive option? American girl sells smaller versions of their dolls. These miniature versions make great collectibles for a fraction of the price. Or if brand is not important to you, you can consider knock off brand dolls. Target.com sells a similar doll called "Our Generation." The dolls are similar in size to the American girl dolls and have a whole load of moderately priced accessories sold in Target. Another great knock off doll are the ones sold in Joann Fabrics and Michael's Craft stores. The dolls do not have much furniture and those types of accessories, but the craft stores sell a ton of clothes. One benefit of buying at these types of craft stores is that they often have a high value coupon for forty percent off, allowing you to save even more!

No matter where you get your American Girl Doll or Bitty Baby doll, your child is sure to love it! There is something special about having a favorite doll.