October 28, 2025

When a "Deal" Isn't a Deal

Savings Budgeting

We’ve all been there — heart pounding, cart ready, convinced we’ve stumbled onto the bargain of a lifetime. Whether it’s a “limited-time offer,” a “buy one get one” (BOGO) deal, or a “massive clearance event,” retailers are masters at making us feel like we need to act fast or lose out. But, not every deal is what it seems to be. Some discounts are cleverly disguised marketing tactics that trick you into spending more than you planned — or more than you need to.

Let’s break down how to spot a deal that’s not really a deal and how to shop smart without falling for the hype.

1. Compare the actual original price – not the “original” price they show you

One of the oldest tricks in the book is inflating the “original” price to make the sale price look more impressive. A shirt listed as “Originally $89.99, now $29.99!” might never have actually sold for $89.99. Retailers sometimes set artificially high list prices just to make the discount seem bigger.

How to spot it: Use price-tracking websites or browser extensions like Honey, CamelCamelCamel (for Amazon), or PriceGrabber to see the item’s actual price history. If it’s always been sold for around $30, that “sale” isn’t special at all.

2. Watch for “fake urgency”

Phrases like “Only 2 left!” or “Offer ends in 2 hours!” are designed to create panic and push you into buying on impulse. But many of these warnings are automated and reset daily or vary based on your browsing behavior.

How to spot it: Leave the item in your cart for a few hours or even a day. If you get a reminder email with the same price — or even a better one — it’s not as urgent as the retailer made it sound. Be wary of countdown timers, especially if they reset every time you visit the site.

3. Check the unit price

Bulk and multi-pack deals can be deceiving. “5 for $5!” sounds great until you realize the single item is $1 anyway. Worse, the bundle sometimes costs more per unit than buying individually.

How to spot it: Always check the unit price (per ounce, per item, per liter, etc.). It’s often printed in small text on the shelf label or can be calculated manually. Sometimes, buying smaller quantities actually saves money — especially if you’re not going to use it all before it expires.

4. Know the return policy

Deep discounts often come with strict return rules — or none at all. If an item is “final sale,” you may be stuck with something that doesn’t fit, doesn’t work or doesn’t meet your needs.

How to spot it: Always check the fine print before you buy. If the return policy is confusing, missing or unreasonably short, that “deal” could cost you more in the long run.

5. Beware of BOGO (Buy One Get One) offers

BOGO deals can be great — but only if you actually need both items. Some retailers inflate the price of the first item, so you’re not really saving as much as you think.

How to spot it: Do the math. If two shirts cost $50 under a BOGO deal, but one shirt is regularly $25, you didn’t actually save anything. It’s also a good idea to ask yourself if you’d still want the item without the deal.

6. Avoid falling for free shipping thresholds

Free shipping offers are powerful motivators, but they can encourage you to spend more just to hit a qualifying minimum amount. Spending an extra $15 on things you didn’t plan to buy just to save $6 on shipping isn’t actually a smart move.

How to spot it: Calculate whether it’s cheaper to pay for shipping than to buy something you don’t need. Sometimes, choosing store pickup is free and more convenient anyway.

7. “Limited Edition” doesn’t always mean better

Slapping “limited edition” on a product makes it feel exclusive, even if it’s just a regular item in different packaging. This label often justifies higher prices without delivering additional value.

How to spot it: Look at the product ingredients, specs or size. If it’s nearly identical to the regular version — just with a new label or seasonal design — it’s likely a marketing gimmick.

A true deal benefits you, not just the store. It’s something you wanted or needed, at a fair price, with no strings attached. So the next time a deal seems too good to be true — pause, check the facts and ask yourself: “Is this a smart buy, or just a shiny distraction?” Your budget will thank you.