Five most common Cyber Monday shopping mistakes as expert reveals top tips to get the best deals
On Cyber Monday, millions of Americans buy online for the holidays, but a money-saving expert has identified some frequent pitfalls to watch out for.
In addition to offering valuable advice on how to get the best prices, the expert described five Cyber Monday shopping blunders.
Cyber Monday is the largest online shopping day of the year and was first observed in 2005. It takes place on the Monday following Thanksgiving.
According to Adobe Analytics, consumers are predicted to spend a record $13.2 billion today, which is 6.1% more than they did the previous year.
However, consumers who intend to spend a lot of money on Christmas sales should exercise care.
The CEO of the online discount site Wethrift and money-saving guru Nick Drewe has identified frequent Cyber Monday buying blunders and how to prevent them.
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Falling for Dynamic Pricing
According to Drewe, shops frequently employ algorithms to modify their rates depending on a number of variables, such as the demand for a product, the time of day, and even your location.
In order to combat volatile pricing, the expert recommended employing price tracking tools that provide price history or checking prices at various points during the day.
Additionally, Drewe suggested utilizing a VPN to see if product prices differ by region.
2. Misunderstanding Programs for Loyalty
Additionally, the money-saving guru advised Cyber Monday consumers to carefully review their loyalty program restrictions.
Many people believe that Cyber Monday offers may be used to stack loyalty points or awards, but this isn’t always the case.
During significant sales events like Cyber Monday, some loyalty programs might not allow customers to accrue points on drastically discounted items or utilize points to make purchases.
3. Believing Every Product Review
Product reviews play a significant role in the decision-making process for many customers, but fraudulent evaluations are becoming more widespread, particularly around significant sales occasions.
The expert advised looking for thorough evaluations that address both advantages and disadvantages and using resources like Fakespot to determine whether a review is genuine.
Additionally, he suggested exercising caution in the event of an unexpected surge in excessively favorable evaluations just prior to Cyber Monday.
4. Ignoring Warranty Modifications
The cost-cutting expert then suggested that Cyber Monday consumers, particularly those buying expensive things, study the warranty information before making a purchase.
Drewe noted that warranty terms might have changed as a result of Cyber Monday offers.
Even for damaged items, some retailers may charge customers for return shipping, while others may give shorter guarantee periods on sale items.
5. Ignoring the Need to Match Prices
Last but not least, a lot of Cyber Monday consumers make the error of forgetting that some stores provide price matching.
If you prefer to buy at a particular store but find a lower price elsewhere, Drewe advised asking about price matching.
He pointed out that some stores even promise to surpass rivals’ prices by a specific percentage.
SHOPPING SECRETS
The cost-cutting specialist also offered some important pointers for obtaining the greatest Cyber Monday offers.
- Mobile Shopping
For a seamless Cyber Monday shopping experience, Drewe recommended a few simple ways to optimize your phone.
To make sure they see the most recent prices, customers can start by deleting the cookies and cache in their browser.
The financial expert also suggested updating shopping apps ahead of time, pointing out that many businesses provide mobile users early access or app-only discounts.
Additionally, by enabling speedy checkout using payment methods like PayPal or Apple Pay, customers can lower the chance of losing out on time-sensitive discounts.
Cyber Monday Statistics
- Shoppers spend $12.4 billion on Cyber Monday each year
- 200.4 million Americans shopped during Cyber Week in 2023
- US buyer activity increases 512% on Cyber Monday compared to an average day
- 88% of the top 50 online retailers offer Cyber Monday deals
- The average American plans to spend $650 between Black Friday and Cyber Monday
Origin: Exploding Subjects
Additionally, Drewe recommended being disciplined while activating push alerts for well-known retailers.
To avoid impulsive purchases brought on by alerts, shoppers might make a wishlist before to browsing for Cyber Monday offers.
2. Devices and Electronics
Drewe advised concentrating on previous year’s models to get the best bargains on gadgets like computers, TVs, and cellphones.
He pointed out that while older models are still quite competitive with newer versions, they can be reduced by between 20% to 40%.
However, devices from the current generation might only receive a 5%–10% discount.
To make sure you are getting a real deal, Drewe also advised figuring out the prices of the various items in package deals.
3. Subscriptions to Digital
Cyber Monday buyers should take advantage of discounts on digital subscriptions, including streaming services, productivity software, and online learning platforms, the money-saving guru suggested.
He pointed out that a lot of services provide significant savings of up to 50% on annual plans.
Before committing to the digital membership, he advised reading the terms and conditions carefully and being wary of auto-renewal traps, particularly if it’s a multi-year agreement.
Drewe also suggested setting a reminder to cancel before to the renewal date and being aware of the entire post-discount pricing.
The specialist noted that certain services might only provide a one-year discount, so customers should consider long-term expenses when choosing a service.
4. Smart Home Appliances
Drewe pointed out that Cyber Monday frequently offers steep discounts on smart home gear.
Given the prevalence of price matching, he advised evaluating prices across several retailers.
Additionally, customers can look for bundles, which may be more affordable than purchasing products one at a time.
In order to guarantee that new gadgets will work with their current smart home configuration, the cost-saving expert also suggested that buyers take compatibility into account when making purchases.
5. Online Games
Finally, Drewe advised Cyber Monday customers to take advantage of the huge discounts on digital games.
He pointed out that the Steam Autumn Sale usually includes Cyber Monday and offers massive discounts of at least 50% off a variety of PC titles.
To find out if the Cyber Monday pricing is the best, the expert suggested using price tracking software.
During this time, customers can think about purchasing yearly memberships to services like Xbox Game Pass or PlayStation Plus, which are frequently offered at their lowest cost of the year.
“Preparation is essential for a good Cyber Monday shopping experience. Drewe said, “Use price tracking tools, read the fine print, and avoid being pressured by time-limited deals.”
“A deal is only good if it’s for something you’ve been wanting to buy or actually need.” To get the most out of Cyber Monday, stay focused, research, and shop wisely.
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Dollar Tree is offering $1.25 holiday cups for 80% less than Walmart, so shoppers searching for a deal should go there.
Additionally, take advantage of a little-known application for wool dryer balls—they’re 50% off on Black Friday.
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