Ever been drawn to an attractive shopping deal you couldn’t overlook? You may have been ensnared in one of the numerous sales pitfalls that retailers promote round the clock. If this has happened to you, you’re not alone. It’s quite typical to be dazzled by striking sales posters and be baffled by the intricate smallprint.
Looking backward, you might notice that purchases made during these bait times usually turn out to be less impressive than they initally seemed, cleverly persuading you to buy stuff or latch onto deals that eventually disappoint.
If your goal is to economize on your shopping, you need to equip yourself for avoiding these sales traps all year long.
Extended-Warranty Sales
Most people tend to be aware of this trap. When buying costly electronics or home appliances, you’re usually offered an extended warranty at the checkout. Contemplating future breakdowns of your expensive items, the warranty might seem reasonable despite its steep cost.
Nevertheless, these warranties are generally an unnecessary, high-priced addition, and turn into money down the drain. Rarely do the products you buy demand the sort of repairs provided by the warranty, and even if repairs are needed, they are mainly deemed ‘natural wear and tear’, or the warranty might have already expired before you claim it.
On top of this, most items come with a complimentary 1-year warranty covering similar repairs and replacements. So, before you splash out on add-ons, investigate what your product already offers. If you’re concerned about future expenses, set up an emergency fund.
BOGO (Buy One, Get One) Offers
As tempting as these offers are, they can lead to excess purchases of items you don’t actually need. Save money by buying only what you need, rather than simply because it’s on sale. Most of the time, you don’t even need more than one of the same item.
The ‘Trending’ Sales Pitch
Just because a sales associate pitches something as the ‘latest’ item, you’re not obligated to buy it. Typically, the items they suggest are highly priced and earn them a commission when sold. Always explore all your options before making any purchase.
Gift Card Traps
Gift cards are a simple solution when seeking gifts but beware – they often carry fine print regulations. These might include expiration dates and even deductions from the card if it isn’t used within a certain period. Furthermore, if you buy a card that functions like a debit card, fees might apply. A more reliable option would be to give cash or write a cheque, which don’t expire and can be spent at the recipient’s preference.
Over the Top Discounts
Discounts of 30%, 40% and even 50% off prices can whet any shopper’s appetite for a bargain, but exercise caution. Stores often inflate prices above the normal retail value, making these discounts appear more significant. Always remember to compare prices before you make a purchase and ensure savings are actual.
All considered, smart shopping requires vigilance of retailers’ tactics, a bit of research and awareness of traps. Even seasoned shoppers can be drawn into schemes designed for impulsive buying. Do share your own smart shopping strategies and elaborate on any sales pitfalls you’ve encountered.
