Insider Hints for the Target Store in Carmel, Indiana

The Target store located at 15160 North Meridian St. is by far my favorite place to shop in Carmel, Ind. The store is clean and bright, the cashiers are friendly and they have a great selection of stylish merchandise. Though Wal-mart is directly across U.S. 31/Meridian Street, I go to Target whenever I can. It's much cleaner, much less noisy and much easier to navigate. With a few insider hints, it can become even easier.

Getting a Great Parking Space

Although parking at the Target in Carmel is generally not a problem during the week, it can mean a decent hike on weekends. But if the parking lot looks like there's a sold out Colts' game going on, don't worry - just check out the small side lot on the east side of the building (or right side, if you're facing the front of the building). It's right by the door, and it often gets overlooked. The main parking lot itself is nice, too - it has security cameras and shopping cart corrals placed strategically throughout the lot.

Start Your Shopping Experience Right

When you first enter the store, the carts (of course) are directly by the doors. But don't just grab one and speed away. You can save time and money by taking a few moments to look around. The current sales ads are posted in a glass case on the wall immediately to the right upon entering. If you don't already have an ad with you, take a moment to look over all of the money-saving offers for that week. Also, the restrooms are right by the ad posting. If you or your little ones need to use them, now is the time to do it to prevent inconvenient trips to the front of the store later. Complimentary scooters are available next to the restrooms for shoppers who have difficulty walking. The cafeteria is also right by the entrance, so you can grab a quick snack, beverage or slushie to make your shopping experience more enjoyable. If the kids are hungry or you're short on time, the Target cafeteria in Carmel offers a $2 combo with your choice of hot dog or chicken fingers and a drink. Also, be aware of their grocery section to your left beyond the registers - although it is not technically a Super Target, the grocery area has more variety than you might think.

Find the Clothes You Want at the Best Prices

Many women, including myself, shop at Target for their trendy and inexpensive selection of clothing. If you go straight upon entering the store, the women's clothing will be the first thing you'll encounter after the cafeteria on your right. Running front to back, the clothing selections are as follows: seasonal, junior styles, trendy, business casual, maternity and plus sizes. So, if it's May and you're looking for a swimsuit, they'll be right up front. The clearance racks are visible from the main aisle and can be found against the side walls in the women's section. If you have the time, you can find some really good deals here. When I was pregnant, my favorite pair of jeans came from the Target in Carmel - for only $4! The fitting room is in the back right-hand corner of the store at the end of women's clothing, so feel free to try anything you're not sure about on before purchasing.

Use the Price Scanners

If you're purchasing a clearance or sale item, save yourself time at the register by verifying the price at one of the many user-friendly price scanners throughout the store. Unfortunately, this is likely the only way you'll get an answer to your question before you reach the cash register - sales associates can be difficult to find throughout the store. You might find the item in question is more - or less - than you thought it would be.

Be Aware of the Flex Section

The "flexible" section of the store is at the back left-hand corner. Seasonal items can be found here, including displays in the corner itself. In April, this is where you'll find the hottest patio furniture, adorable kids' gardening accessories, swimming pools, picnicking accessories and more. This is also where clearance items can often be found (usually behind the toys). This is your best bet for finding post-holiday clearance. Many other clearance items, such as toys, are in the departments with the merchandise and are marked - so look out for the big red tags!

Keep Your Options Open for a Quick Check-Out

The registers at this target run in two rows, the front row of registers (closest to the front of the store) and the back row of registers (closest to the store itself). Most people don't pay much attention, and they line up at the back registers. But if you look a little further to the front row of registers, you're likely to find a shorter wait or no wait at all. The Express Lanes are at the far end of the front row.

With these helpful hints, the Target Store in Carmel can become the easiest place you shop, as well as your favorite. With stylish clothes, innovative products, fresh last-minute groceries and a great atmosphere, it's hard not to love shopping there. So, shop like a pro - and have a great time doing it!