Shopping

Price and Timing

• Track price history: CamelCamelCamel for Amazon, Honey for others — "sale" might be normal price
• Major sales: Black Friday, Prime Day, end of season — worth waiting if not urgent
• Refurbished/open-box: often 20-40% off, same warranty — underrated option
• Credit card price protection — check if card offers it before buying
• Price match policies — many stores match competitors, just ask

Comparison Framework

Two good options? Pick the one easier to return.

Red Flags

• Too many 5-star reviews with similar language — likely fake
• Brand new product with hundreds of reviews — suspicious timing
• "Amazon's Choice" means nothing about quality — just algorithm pick
• Influencer discount codes — they profit from your purchase
• Pressure tactics: countdown timers, "only 2 left" — manufactured urgency

Return Policy Awareness

• Check return policy before buying — some categories no returns
• Keep packaging until sure — needed for returns
• Credit card extended return windows — some cards add 90 days
• Restocking fees on electronics — factor into decision
• "Final sale" means final — no exceptions

Category-Specific Guidance

• Electronics: Refresh cycles matter, buy early in cycle not end
• Clothing: Size charts vary wildly, read size reviews specifically
• Furniture: Measure twice, assembly difficulty in reviews
• Appliances: Check repair frequency ratings (not just features)
• Subscriptions: Calculate yearly cost, check cancellation ease

Post-Purchase

• Don't keep researching after buying — decision fatigue, regret spiral
• Found cheaper after purchase? Many stores price-match within window
• Problem with product? Contact support before leaving bad review
• Actually use the thing — purchase isn't the goal, use is