How to Become a Smarter Shopper

How often do you go shopping, whether in store or online, and only buy the items you had planned to get? If you’re like most people it’s pretty rare. Stores, restaurants, and online shopping sites all have gimmicks and tricks to get you in the door and to spend more money once you’re there. Money magazine recently posted an article that shares 27 tricks that stores use to get you to spend more. When you recognize them for what they are, you’ve got a better chance of fighting them off and sticking to your plan.

You receive an email from your favorite store with a discount that is only good this week or maybe even today only! You head to the store and grab the large shopping cart conveniently waiting for you out front as you enter. As you walk up and down the wide aisles, you see sale signs, clearance items and try a few free samples as you shop. You hear cool music, and see bright colors that grab your attention. You pause, confused why you can’t find what you came here for then realize they’ve re-arranged the store, again. As you search for the items on your list a few things catch your eye and end up in your shopping cart.

Sound familiar? There were at least 12 sneaky attempts to make you spend more money in that single shopping trip. And online shopping can be even worse: has free shipping if you spend a certain amount ever made you spend $10 more just to get the $7.95 shipping for free?

Getting wise to these tricks and gimmicks can help reduce temptation to buy things you don’t need and help you become a more savvy shopper. Make a list, stick to it, and when you pick up that item that isn’t on your list – now you know why so you can put it right back down.

Need help staying on track with your spending? BrightDime’s budgeting tools and coaches can help.