Sales can be exciting—but not all discounts are as good as they seem. Retailers often use clever tactics to make deals look more appealing than they actually are, and without careful attention, it’s easy to pay more than you should. Whether it’s during Black Friday, holiday shopping seasons, or a surprise “flash sale,” knowing how to spot fake discounts can help you avoid marketing traps and make truly smart purchases.
Here’s how to shop smarter and spot fake discounts before you check out.
1. Know the Real Price Before the Sale
Why it matters:
Many retailers inflate the “original price” right before a sale to make the discount seem bigger.
How to protect yourself:
- Track the item’s regular price weeks in advance.
- Use price history tools like CamelCamelCamel (for Amazon), Honey’s Droplist, or Google Shopping’s price tracker.
- Save screenshots or notes of regular prices if you’re planning ahead for major sales.
Tip:
If the item was “50% off” but has never actually sold at full price, you’re not saving as much as you think.
2. Be Wary of “Up to X% Off” Claims
Why it matters:
Sales often advertise “up to 70% off” to lure shoppers, but only a few items may actually be that deeply discounted.
What to look for:
- Check the discount on the specific item you want, not just the headline percentage.
- Look for asterisks (*) or small print explaining exclusions.
Tip:
Focus on the actual price you’ll pay—not the marketing language around it.
3. Compare Prices Across Multiple Retailers
Why it matters:
Sometimes a “sale” price at one store is actually higher than a regular price elsewhere.
How to compare quickly:
- Use Google Shopping, ShopSavvy, or PriceGrabber to search for item prices across retailers.
- Open multiple tabs to check competitors’ listings before purchasing.
Tip:
Factor in shipping costs and taxes when comparing prices for a true apples-to-apples comparison.
4. Watch Out for Limited-Time Pressure Tactics
Why it matters:
Countdown timers and “only 2 left!” messages are designed to trigger impulse purchases without giving you time to think.
How to stay calm:
- Check whether the same “flash sale” resets daily—if so, it’s likely a constant marketing tactic, not a real urgency.
- Research if the product is commonly discounted—some “limited time” deals are available year-round.
Tip:
If you need to act quickly, set a strict budget ahead of time so you don’t overspend under pressure.
5. Check for Bundled Deals That Aren’t Actually Deals
Why it matters:
Sometimes bundling items together inflates the total price rather than saving you money.
What to watch for:
- Calculate the individual prices of each item in the bundle.
- Decide if you actually need all the items included.
Tip:
A bundle is only a bargain if you planned to buy everything included—or would happily use it all.
6. Read Reviews Before You Buy
Why it matters:
Sometimes items are deeply discounted because they’re low-quality, older models, or being cleared out for a reason.
How to vet your purchase:
- Look for independent reviews on sites like Wirecutter, Consumer Reports, or YouTube.
- Be cautious with products that have few or no verified reviews.
Tip:
An amazing price isn’t worth it if the product won’t meet your needs or won’t last.
7. Scrutinize the Return Policy
Why it matters:
Deep discounts can sometimes come with strings attached, like final sale restrictions or complicated return processes.
What to check:
- Can you return or exchange the item if needed?
- How long is the return window?
- Are there restocking fees?
Tip:
If the return policy feels overly restrictive, think twice—especially for big-ticket purchases.
8. Use Price-Matching When Available
Why it matters:
Many retailers will match a competitor’s lower price if you ask—even during sales.
How to use it:
- Find the competitor’s price and proof (screenshot or website link).
- Contact customer service or ask at checkout if price matching is available.
- Know the retailer’s price-matching policy ahead of time.
Tip:
Some stores, like Best Buy and Target, offer limited-time holiday price match guarantees—take advantage if available.
9. Don’t Assume Higher Discounts Always Mean Better Deals
Why it matters:
A bigger percentage off doesn’t always mean bigger savings—it depends on the starting price.
Example:
- 30% off a $500 item saves you more money than 50% off a $100 item.
Tip:
Focus on the final price relative to the item’s true value, not just the percentage.
10. Trust Your Gut
Why it matters:
If a deal feels too good to be true, it often is. Scams and counterfeit goods are more common during major sale periods.
How to stay safe:
- Stick to reputable retailers.
- Be cautious of unfamiliar websites offering extreme discounts.
- Verify website authenticity before entering payment information.
Tip:
Look for HTTPS in the web address and check customer reviews about the site’s reliability.
Sales are exciting—but not every “deal” is a true bargain. With a little research, some smart comparison shopping, and a sharp eye for marketing tactics, you can separate the genuine savings from the sales hype. Focus on buying what you truly need, knowing the real value of what you’re purchasing, and resisting pressure to rush into decisions.
Smart shopping isn’t just about finding the lowest price—it’s about making sure you’re actually getting the best value. Trust your instincts, stay informed, and enjoy the real wins when they come your way.
