Prices keep climbing on everything—groceries, clothes, even streaming apps. But paying full price isn’t required if you time your buys and know where to look. If you want to save more, wait for sales, use coupons, or watch for deals on things you buy often. Holding out for a better price on these everyday items really will add up.
Groceries
Ever wonder how your grocery bill got so high? Before you shop, take a quick look at what’s on sale and find any digital coupons your store offers. Pick up store brands when you can—they often taste the same for less.
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Hold off on buying favorites like cereal or coffee until they go on special, then buy extra. With a bit of planning, you’ll bring home everything you need without emptying your wallet.
Clothing
Don’t pay full price for basics or special pieces unless you really have to. Most stores drop prices when seasons change or during holiday sales. Outlet shops, clearance racks, and flash sale sites usually offer better deals if you wait. Even if a t-shirt seems affordable now, it often gets marked down even more—you could scoop up two for the price of one just by waiting.
Electronics
Big ticket can equal big savings—if you wait. Phones, laptops, Bluetooth headphones, and kitchen tools drop in price after new versions pop up, during Black Friday, or around major sports events. Certified refurbished models can save you loads, and stores like to throw out coupon codes, free shipping, or bundle deals if you’re willing to click around. Use a price tracker if you’re not in a rush.
Personal Care Products
Don’t rush to buy your favorite mascara or dry shampoo at full price. Drugstores usually have buy-one-get-one deals and plenty of coupons to stack for even more savings. Beauty stores drop regular discounts and send out reward promos, so keep an eye on your email before you refill your stash. Running low? Try using samples to get by until a real sale comes along.
Household Cleaning Supplies
It’s easy to burn through laundry pods and wipes, but there’s no need to pay full price. Big-box stores often have bulk deals, and there are always digital coupons from big brands. Stock up on things like toilet paper and paper towels during warehouse sales or set up a subscribe-and-save for extra discounts. Just double-check you’ll actually use everything—saving only works if nothing goes to waste.
Home Décor and Furnishings
You don’t have to spend a fortune to spruce up your space. Wait for holiday weekends—stores slash prices on pillows, rugs, and even furniture around major sales like President’s Day and Memorial Day. Look out for big markdowns when seasons shift or right after the holidays. For something different, check outlet shops or resale apps for deals you won’t find in regular stores.
Books, Magazines, and Stationery
Books are great, but there’s no reason to pay sticker price. Bestsellers often go on sale online and at discount stores, and many libraries hold bag sales if you wait. Magazines are cheaper in bundle packs or with a subscription instead of grabbing them at the checkout. Need supplies? Pick up notebooks, pens, and folders during back-to-school sales, not in the middle of your organizing spree.
Kitchenware and Cookware
If your baking dish breaks or your skillet finally gives out, don’t rush to replace it at full price. Kitchen shops offer big markdowns during holidays and major sales. Utensil and dinnerware sets usually drop in price after wedding season or when stores reset for a new holiday. Discount stores like Marshalls and HomeGoods also carry a wide variety of kitchen items at big discounts!
Children’s Items
Kids outgrow clothes and shoes in no time, so paying full price rarely makes sense. You can always find barely worn jeans or sneakers on clearance racks. Toys and games are everywhere before the holidays, but prices drop fast after Christmas and during summer sales. Stock up on school supplies in August when stores basically give them away—grab enough for the whole year while they’re cheap.
Fitness and Outdoor Equipment
You don’t have to pay full price for workout gear or equipment. Once the New Year’s rush fades, things like bike helmets and jump ropes drop in price. End-of-season sales clear out last year’s styles for much less. Sporting goods shops also slash prices before new trends or weather changes hit.
Automobile-Related Purchases
Car care costs add up fast—things like oil, wiper blades, cleaners, and floor mats can really hit your wallet. Auto parts stores offer rebates or coupon deals several times a year, so it pays to wait. Tires usually go on sale during back-to-school or spring, so hold off if you can. Bulk packs of car wash soap and air fresheners get steep discounts at warehouse clubs during promo events. Time your purchases to these sales and you’ll keep your car in shape for less.
Tips for Tracking Deals and Discounts
Save even more by setting up price alerts with shopping apps—they’ll let you know when something you want goes on sale. Join store email lists, even if it means a few extra messages, since that’s where most coupon codes show up. Follow brands on social media to catch last-minute flash sales. Deal forums and browser tools can help you find secret discounts you might miss otherwise.
Making a Shopping List to Avoid Impulse Buys
You might think you’ll remember what you need, but lists actually help you skip those just-for-fun purchases. Plan out what you need now and what can wait for a sale. Prioritize your “must-have” and “nice-to-have” items. It’ll make a huge difference in how much you spend.
Creating an Organized Shopping Calendar
If you’re really serious about saving, track annual sale events for everything from clothes to mattresses. Put reminders in your phone or planner for holiday weekends and Prime Day. Mapping these out keeps you primed for deals instead of paying too much because you shopped at the wrong time.
Utilizing Loyalty and Reward Programs
Almost every store runs some kind of points or rewards program. Sign up (for free) and stack rewards with coupons for double savings. Many programs send bonus offers on your birthday or as thank-you gifts after a big purchase, so don’t miss those easy wins.
When it’s Worth Paying Full Price
Sometimes waiting isn’t an option—like when you need snow boots before a blizzard or you’re picking up medicine. In those cases, paying full price makes sense. If a cheaper version doesn’t hold up or the item hardly ever goes on sale, spending more for quality or speed can be worth it. Save your bargain hunting for everything else and spend when it really matters.
Potential Risks of Waiting for Sales
Waiting for a sale isn’t always foolproof—items can sell out or get swapped for a newer model before you buy. If there’s nothing left, you don’t save anything. When you spot a solid deal or know you’ll use an item soon, it’s smart to buy ahead. Planning early saves you from scrambling and can actually protect your budget.
17 Essential Products You Could Live Without (And Save Big)
We’ve all been there—buying something because it’s labeled as “essential” rather than truly asking if it’s necessary. It’s easy to get caught up in grabbing things that promise ease or luxury, only to realize later they’re collecting dust. The truth? Many of these so-called essentials aren’t so essential, and skipping them can fatten your wallet faster than you think. Here’s a rundown of common items you could do without and what you can use instead. 17 Essential Products You Could Live Without (And Save Big)