5 ways to save during sales

Sultan waits for electronics sales every year. He has marked the days for UAE events such as GITEX, and online sales by retailers that offer discounts. He uses the discounts to upgrade his phone, buy new devices for his family and staff, and times his purchases to save more. Globally, research shows that 56% consumers spend money on essentials during sales, while 64% spend on gifts.

Here are 5 tips to make sure you spend smart during sales.

1. Would you have bought it anyway?

A good test for shopping during sales and discount events is to ask yourself whether you would have bought the product even without a discount. This protects you from unnecessary shopping.
If you don’t buy what’s on offer, you will save 100% instead of only the discount value.

2. Wait a while:

Smart shoppers rarely indulge in impulse shopping; instead they wait for a week or more before they decide to buy. If it’s online, let it sit in your cart until the impulse to buy fades or you decide you need the item.
Keep track of what’s on offer so that you can include it in your shopping plans for the month. Do product discovery in your own time, not when you are already at the store.

3. Use your right to return:

The fact that it is easy to return is one of the draws that retailers use to attract customers. If you don’t like something, or it doesn’t match your lifestyle, or you have serious buyer’s remorse about it, don’t hesitate to return it.
Check the return policies at the retailer on each item you pick up. If it’s not included in returns, go back to step 1 and 2.

4. Combine your rewards:

Take time to look at offers and rewards on your cards and shopping apps. Is there a discount code waiting to be used? Will you make bigger savings if you use one payment method versus another?
Use family groups and other methods to boost your rewards.

5. Research real prices:

Many products may be marked down from a higher base, or be sold in combos with other products that you don’t even need.
Research shows that 48% shoppers have used or plan to use GenAI in their shopping journey.
Use whatever tools you can to check whether the discount is genuine.
You can time your shopping to match the year-round sales calendar in the UAE to make the most of deals.

Have your say…

What are your top tips for shopping smart? Join the moneysmart community to share your secrets!

Disclaimer: The information provided in this communication does not constitute financial, legal, tax, medical, or other specialized advice, an offer, or a solicitation for an offer. The content provided is not intended to be a substitute for the counsel of a qualified professional who is aware of your specific circumstances, facts and individual needs. Before making any decision or taking any action, you should consult with your own independent, qualified, and licensed professional advisor. You are solely responsible for all decisions, actions, and results based on your use of the information provided. We expressly disclaim any and all liability for any actions taken or not taken based on any of the contents of this communication.