Costly Mistakes Shoppers Make (And How To Avoid Them)

Jan 17, 2023 Personal Finances

Shopping – either for needs or wants – is likely something you do frequently. Be aware of these six costly errors shoppers make and how to avoid them.

Whether you’re buying clothes, groceries, or products just for fun, shopping is likely something you do frequently. You may shop online or visit stores in person, but in the end, you’ll exchange your money for the items you want and need.

Making mistakes as you shop is common, and can literally cost you. Whether it’s spending too much on the things you don’t need or paying too much for essentials, the numbers can add up. Here are six costly errors shoppers make and how you can avoid them.

Six Costly Mistakes

Buying Just Because It’s On Sale

Stores love those flashy 70% and 80% off signs, and so do shoppers. And while those deep discounts can be compelling, buying just because an item is on sale is a big mistake. If you need it and it’s on sale, great; if not, leave it where it is.

Overspending To Rack Up Credit Card Rewards

Buying everyday purchases with credit cards is a great way to rack up rewards, but spending too much to grab additional points won’t do your budget any good. The credit card companies want you to overspend, and it’s up to you to disappoint them.

Failing To Track Your Spending

From everyday groceries to dinners out to the occasional splurges on fancy clothes, knowing how much you’re spending is essential.

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Falling For The Checkout Line Trap

Whether you’re shopping for groceries, clothes, or something else, you’ll spend some time in the checkout line. Stores know that, and they try to entice you to throw additional items in your cart. Falling for the checkout line trap could be costly, so keep your wallet in your pocket and your eyes on your cart.

Not Checking Prices Online

One of the great things about shopping online is that price checks are just a tap away. Spending a little time checking prices online before buying in store is a great way to spend less.

Not Keeping Your Receipts

Hopefully, every item you purchase will work flawlessly and you’ll never have to initiate a return. But if you need to return a defective item, having your receipts handy will make the process easier. Not keeping your receipts is a big mistake, so keep them somewhere safe in case you need them.

Summary

Shopping is no doubt necessary, but it can also be fun. Whether it’s the grocery store, online, the shopping mall, or somewhere else, avoiding the mistakes listed above can help to make your shopping a more enjoyable experience.

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