Before you click ‘buy’, here are some Amazon ‘Prime Day’ tips
Attempt to temper proclivity to shop and overspend, experts say
NEW YORK — Amazon’s “Prime Day” is back, and so is the temptation to shop and overspend on stuff you don’t need.
The made-up holiday, first held in 2015, has become one of Amazon’s busiest shopping days, offering discounts on gadgets, TVs and other goods. But it’s also a way to get more people to sign up for its $119-a-year Prime membership.
Prime Day is actually happening on two days: July 15 and July 16. Here are some tips for navigating the sales holiday:
PLAN AHEAD: To cut down on impulse purchases, write down what you want ahead of time and set a spending limit, says Ross Steinman, a professor of psychology at Widener University in Chester, Penn.
Much of what is on sale is kept a secret until the event, but you’ll be able to browse deals ahead of time on Amazon’s app, the company says.
Sara Skirboll, a shopping expert at deals site RetailMeNot, recommends setting up a “Wish List” on the Amazon app and allowing it to send notifications.
SLOW DOWN: Before you buy, give yourself some time to think about whether you actually need the items you’re eyeing.
PRIME WORKAROUND: The deals are only for Prime members. But if you’re not a member, Amazon offers a 30-day free trial when you sign up. Just remember to set a calendar reminder to cancel the subscription.
SHOP AROUND: Walmart, Target and eBay plan to offer their own online discounts during Amazon’s Prime Day event. So make sure to search around.
PRICE HISTORY: Use price tracking websites to see how the price of an item has changed on Amazon over time. It can help you see if you’re really getting the lowest price.
“Just because something is on sale, doesn’t mean it’s a great deal,” says Skirboll.