Factory outlet shopping is fast becoming a must-do for Europe travellers. Goh Hwee Leng shows you 7 ways to hunt down the deals

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Timing: IF you are able to be flexible with the timing of your visit to the outlets, best is to go during the week as you don't have to contend with the local weekend crowds. And, of course, summer is always a lot busier than winter. Most outlets follow the two changes of seasons in fashion, meaning if you go in January, you'll find mostly winter wear which won't be of much use if you live in the tropics. So get your timing right.

Patience: Be prepared to trawl. You'll be surprised at the treasures you can dig up going patiently through racks. It's the time spent browsing that elicits the best bargains. So allow yourself plenty of time at the outlets. Ideas: Don't go with a rigid idea of what you want - that's not what designer outlets are about. Allow yourself to be open to ideas.

Selection: Separate your shopping thoughts into 'classics' and 'one season wonders'. If you're not confident with mixing looks, stick to classics - a well-cut black jacket will last for years, and can easily be teamed with something in season.

Tax refund: Some shops offer a tax refund service, so try to take advantage of it because it'll mean extra discounts. Check with the store (usually there would be a 'Tax Free Shopping' sticker on the front window) and they'd be able to help you fill out the documents. Usually you'll need to spend a minimum amount (eg in France it's 175 euros) in the same store on the same day to receive a tax refund.

Prices: Use the lower prices to buy up a grade. If that cashmere sweater you've always wanted is now the same price as a lambswool, you can afford it!

Exchange: Always try things on. You're not likely to make another trip back to the shop to make an exchange (that taxi ride will eat into any discount which you might have had). And even if you are able to return, don't expect to be able to exchange for the same item in a different size a few days later as stocks are normally limited in numbers and sizes.

Shops: Try out shops you wouldn't normally think of going into. Sometimes you find the best bargains where you least expect them.