How to Spot a Real Deal
A practical method for telling genuine deals from fake discounts: know the normal price, compare like for like and resist urgency.
A real deal is a fair price on something you actually need or want. Everything else is marketing. Here is how to tell them apart.
Step 1: Start from need
Was this on your list before you saw the sale? If not, pause. The best saving is the purchase you do not make.
Step 2: Know the normal price
Track items you plan to buy so you know what they usually cost. See price-tracking habits.
Step 3: Compare like for like
Check the exact model number, size and version. Sellers sometimes offer slightly different variants so prices are hard to compare.
Step 4: Check the unit cost
For groceries and household goods, compare price per unit, weight or volume. Bigger is not always cheaper.
Step 5: Read the small print
- Return window and who pays return shipping
- Warranty differences between sellers
- Delivery charges added at checkout
- Subscription sign-ups hidden in the offer
Step 6: Sleep on it
If the deal is gone tomorrow, another will come. Real bargains on things you need show up again. Read whether to wait for a sale.
Red flags
- Countdown timers that restart
- Discounts that never end
- A reference price you cannot find anywhere
- Pressure to buy multiples
More on those in how to spot a fake discount.