Finance Writers Reflect on Their Biggest Regrets: Lessons from Prime Days Gone By

Amazon’s Prime Day is a hot topic this summer, stretching from July 8 to 11. Every year, I watch the excitement build, but often feel a bit let down once the sale is over. It’s not always the deals that disappoint me; sometimes it’s how I shop. Temptation and FOMO (fear of missing out) get to me, and I know I’m not alone.

I chatted with a few personal finance experts about their biggest Prime Day mistakes. Here’s what they shared.

Cordless LED Table Lamp

Amanda Barroso: “I jumped on a lamp that looked cute online. It stopped charging after an hour. It wasn’t on my shopping list, but my friends were sharing similar finds everywhere. I missed the return window, so now it’s just waiting to be donated.”

Unplanned Extras

Lauren Schwahn: “I was excited to buy a Yoto Mini audio player for my son’s birthday and got a bundle at a discount. But while browsing, I added on hair clips and pajamas I didn’t need. That extra $25 could’ve been spent better. One clip broke after three uses!”

Expensive Soundbar

Tommy Tindall: “During last year’s Prime Big Deal Days, I bought a Sonos soundbar for over $700. I needed a new speaker, but that was way too much to spend on impulse. I returned it almost immediately. Lesson learned!”

What They Learned

Amanda: “Just because an influencer loves something doesn’t mean it’s worth it. Now, I make sure to check if the item is sold by Amazon for easier returns.”

Lauren: “A sale shouldn’t be the reason to buy. If it’s not on my list, it doesn’t belong in my cart. I’ve had too many quality issues with things I bought on a whim.”

Tommy: “The excitement can cloud your judgment. I regret spending that much. I won’t let sales pressure me into overspending again.”

Avoiding Regrets This Prime Day

Many of us experience buyer’s remorse. Here are some tips based on our experiences:

• Don’t shop just for a sale. If you don’t need anything, it’s okay to skip the sales.
• Create a shopping list. If you decide to check out the deals, have a plan. This can help reduce distractions on the sale day.
• Set a budget for impulse buys. If you want to explore, limit how much you can spend on unplanned items.
• Research products carefully. Look at descriptions, reviews, and return policies. Stick to reputable brands to avoid scams.

With a little bit of planning, you can enjoy the bargains of Prime Day without regretting your choices. Happy shopping!

The article Finance Writers Share Regrets From Prime Days Past originally appeared on NerdWallet.

Source link

personal finance, shopping