So many deals, so much time left in the holiday shopping season. How's a bargain hunter to know when a discount reaches the real-deal zone?

I found lots of tips in The Bargain Hunter's Guide to the Galaxy at WSJ.com. Consider this pearl of wisdom in deciding whether to snag that sweater now at 50 percent off, or hope it gets red-lined two days before Christmas:

"It's not until department stores sell fashion and accessories at 70% off, in general, that they're selling them at around the wholesale price they paid. After hitting that level, department stores often ship unsold goods to off-price stores such as Ross Dress for Less."

Other useful tips from the bargain-hunter's guide:

• Lots more designer goods are showing up these days at the likes of TJ Maxx. The selection at such discount stores is often better near wealthy residential areas or high-end shops.
• Off-price stores often stock up on Thursday and Friday to get ready for the weekend crowds, so think about swinging by on your way home from work on Friday night.
• Tourist areas often get more traffic and more merchandise. That could make the outlet malls in Orando a prime shopping destination. But be sure to factor in the price of gas.

Of course, if you pass up a fab dress at 50 percent off, there's no guarantee it'll still be around for the next round of mark-downs. So what it's worth depends on how badly you want it.

Any other tips to share?

-- Deal Diva Letitia