PICTURE: PEXELS/RON LACH
Seasonal sales can be a great opportunity to save money on clothes, homeware, beauty products and other essentials. But attractive discounts can also make it easier to buy things you don’t actually need.
Also see: Tips for shopping second-hand clothing
A big ‘50% off’ sign doesn’t automatically mean you’re getting a good deal. Shopping smarter means knowing what you need, checking prices and understanding your consumer rights before you spend.
Here are some simple ways to make the most of seasonal sales without overspending.
Make a shopping list
Before browsing the sales, write down what you actually need.
Check your wardrobe, kitchen, bathroom or home first. This can help you avoid buying duplicates or products that will simply sit unused.
A list also makes it easier to stay focused when retailers use promotions to encourage impulse purchases.
Set a budget
Decide how much you can comfortably afford to spend before you start shopping.
Separate essential purchases from things you would simply like to have. Once you’ve reached your limit, resist the temptation to keep shopping just because you see more discounts.
The goal is to save money rather than spend more money because something is on sale.
Compare prices
Don’t assume the biggest discount is automatically the best deal.
Check prices at different retailers before making a purchase, particularly for more expensive items. The National Consumer Commission (NCC) has warned consumers to remain vigilant about misleading selling practices and says consumers should be given accurate information when making purchases.
Look beyond the advertised percentage and compare the actual selling price.
Be careful with “buy more, save more”
Deals such as “buy two, get one free” or “spend more to receive a discount” can encourage you to purchase more than planned.
Ask yourself whether you would still want the additional items if there were no promotion. Saving money on something you don’t need isn’t really saving.
Also see: A guide to the dos and don’ts of online shopping
Check the quality
A lower price shouldn’t mean ignoring quality.
Look at materials, features, ingredients, warranties and customer reviews before buying, particularly when purchasing products you expect to use for a long time.
The NCC has recently taken action against suppliers over issues including inadequate product information, poor-quality goods and misleading practices.
Understand the return policy
Before paying, check whether the retailer allows returns or exchanges and what conditions apply to sale items.
This is particularly important when shopping online. The NCC and Consumer Goods and Services Ombud highlighted returns, refunds, misleading advertising and third-party sellers among consumer concerns in e-commerce.
Also remember that a retailer’s advertised “no refunds” policy does not automatically override statutory consumer protections. In June 2026, the NCC reported a case in which a supplier’s “no refunds” and “no returns” notices were found to limit consumers’ rights under the Consumer Protection Act.
Don’t shop just because it’s on sale
One of the easiest ways to overspend during a seasonal sale is to buy something simply because the price has been reduced.
Ask yourself:
- Would I buy this if it wasn’t on sale?
- Do I need it?
- Do I already own something similar?
If the answers aren’t convincing, consider leaving it behind.
Watch out for pressure tactics
Limited-time offers and countdowns can create a sense of urgency.
Don’t allow a ticking clock to push you into a purchase you haven’t properly considered. Take a moment to check the price, product details and terms of the promotion.
The NCC’s consumer protection framework specifically aims to prohibit unfair marketing and business practices and promote responsible consumer behaviour.
Also see: 15 Wardrobe Essentials Every Woman Needs for Effortless Style
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