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1. Beware of price-gouging.
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Catching sight of a double-digit markdown in price can often make it pretty hard to pass up a deal. But experts say some retailers might be generating some artificial savings.
Fortunately, there’s a way to avoid getting duped. “To spot this dirty marketing trick, check current prices for the product you have your eyes on in the days or weeks before the sale,” Melissa Cid , a consumer savings expert at MySavings.com, tells Best Life .
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2. Certain deals are invite-only.
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3. Some deals could be better during other times of the year.
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Prime Day might be an easy way to score deals, but it’s certainly not the only sales event that stands out on the calendar. And according to Rob Weisberg , president of consumer analytics company Inmar Intelligence , deals can often be better at other times depending on the product.
“Prime Day is known for tech and electronics discounts, but Black Friday and Cyber Monday often offer competitive deals—especially on a wider range of products,” he says. “Some product categories, like clothing and seasonal items, may have better discounts during end-of-season clearance sales.”
Instead of rushing to buy, Weisberg says to consider timing purchases “strategically based on your needs and the typical sales cycles for the products you’re interested in.”
4. Prime Big Deal Days are not Black Friday.
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Many major sales events try to claim supremacy with their availability of deals. However, it’s important to remember that the number of discounts available on Prime Days still vastly pales compared to other marquee shopping events on the calendar.
“While it’s going to serve as the kickoff to the holiday shopping season, it’s important to note that this is not Black Friday,” says Ramhold. “It might be a sort of preview and have some deals that could return again for Black Friday, but this event won’t replace the big shopping day in November.”
5. Returns can become an issue.
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While we always hope to avoid them, returns can be a concern during major shopping events like Prime Day because the rush to get deals may lead to impulse purchases. That’s why experts suggest using extra caution before you check out.
“It’s essential to understand the return policies of each individual retailer,” Weisberg says. “Review the return window, return shipping costs (if any), and any restocking fees that may apply. Some products like electronics may have specific return policies or restocking fees, so be aware.”
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6. Not everything will be on sale.
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Fortunately, a little preparation can also help you limit overbuying. “Before Prime Day begins, make a list of items you genuinely need or have been wanting to purchase,” says Weisberg. “Savvy shoppers should monitor prices of items they intend to purchase before Prime Day to confirm they are indeed getting a good deal.”
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7. The event is Prime-member exclusive.
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