### Table of Contents
– Avoid products sold and shipped by third parties
– Any deal that seems too good to be true…probably is
– Impulse buys: Just say ‘no’
– Last, but not least: Stay away from Ring camera deals
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## Avoid products sold and shipped by third parties
When shopping on Amazon during Prime Big Deal Days, it’s important to be cautious about purchasing products sold and shipped by third-party sellers. While many of these sellers are legitimate, there is also a significant number of counterfeit or scam products being sold. To minimize the risk of getting scammed or buying fake items, it is safest to stick to products that are sold and shipped by Amazon directly.
According to a report by CBS News, the prevalence of counterfeit products on Amazon has become a concerning issue. However, Amazon does offer some protection through its “A-to-z Guarantee” in cases of fraud or counterfeit items. To ensure that you are purchasing directly from Amazon, check the product page and look for the indication that it “Ships from Amazon.com” and is “Sold by Amazon.com”.
By sticking to products sold and shipped by Amazon, you can benefit from Amazon’s refund and return policies, as well as their reliable customer service.
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## Any deal that seems too good to be true…probably is
During Prime Big Deal Days, it’s common to come across deals that seem too good to pass up. However, it’s important to exercise caution and not be swayed solely by the discounted price. Before making a purchase, consider cross-checking the sale price with the manufacturer’s website to verify the original MSRP (Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price). This is because Amazon sometimes inflates the original price to make the discount appear more significant.
In addition to checking the manufacturer’s website, it’s also a good idea to compare prices at other retailers such as Walmart, Best Buy, and Target. These retailers often match or beat Amazon’s offers, ensuring that you are getting the best deal available.
To help you determine if a deal is genuinely good, you can use price-tracking websites like camelcamelcamel. By entering the Amazon listing into their search bar, you can see the price history of the product over weeks, months, or even years. This information can give you a better understanding of whether the discount is as impressive as it seems.
For example, let’s take a look at a Rockland luggage set that was on sale for $97.26 during a previous Prime Big Deal Days. While it appeared to be 56% off the $219 MSRP, camelcamelcamel revealed that it had been consistently priced around $90 to $100 for a long time. This sheds light on the true value of the discount and helps you make a more informed purchasing decision.
Similarly, let’s consider the Apple AirPods Pro 2, which were discounted to $189.99 (from $249) during Prime Big Deal Days. While this may seem like a great deal, camelcamelcamel shows that the AirPods 2 are regularly discounted to this price. In fact, they have reached their all-time low of $168.99 during previous Prime events. By waiting a bit longer, you might be able to snag an even better deal.
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## Impulse buys: Just say ‘no’
One common pitfall during sales events like Prime Big Deal Days is falling prey to impulse purchases. Just because something is on sale doesn’t mean you need to buy it. It’s crucial to resist the temptation and carefully evaluate whether the item is something you genuinely need or want.
While the allure of dirt-cheap products like Echo Pops may be hard to resist, it’s essential to consider whether you truly need a new smart speaker. Impulse purchases often lead to buyer’s remorse, as highlighted by a Google survey that found nine out of ten respondents had experienced regret from impulse purchases. Additionally, 42% of respondents regretted buying something solely because it was on sale.
To avoid buyer’s remorse, take a moment to reflect on whether the purchase aligns with your needs and priorities. Remember, it’s better to save your money for items that truly add value to your life rather than succumbing to the fear of missing out.
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## Last, but not least: Stay away from Ring camera deals
While Prime Big Deal Days often feature numerous deals on Ring home security equipment, we advise against purchasing any of these products if you value your privacy and the privacy of your neighbors. Ring, an Amazon-owned brand, has faced several controversies related to security and data handling issues, including questionable partnerships with law enforcement agencies.
Although Ring discontinued the tool that allowed police to request footage without a warrant, there are still concerns about the brand’s overall commitment to privacy and data security. For those reasons, it’s wise to avoid Ring camera deals and explore alternative options for home security systems.
In summary, when shopping on Amazon during Prime Big Deal Days, be cautious of third-party sellers, critically evaluate seemingly great deals, resist impulse buys, and stay away from Ring camera deals if privacy is a priority.
By following these guidelines, you can shop wisely and make informed purchasing decisions that align with your needs and values. Happy shopping!
