How to Avoid Overbuying
As some of you prepare for back to school, we may find ourselves wandering around Target thinking, “hey, what did I come down this aisle for anyway…”. If cutting down on clutter and saving money is something on your list this year, here are some tips for avoiding overbuying.
Have lists of what you need- This might be a no-brainer, but always have your list handy and let it guide what areas of the store you go to.
Have lists of what you already have- I call these “don’t need” lists. I find this practice to be so helpful, especially if you buy kids sizes in advance when you find a deal. I may have learned this lesson after inadvertently buying three pairs of size 6 toddler shoes because I didn’t have any shoes in that size yet (oops!). Having a list (I use the Google Keep app, in which you can share lists with others) has really helped me to track what I have already and what I am looking for so that I do not buy duplicates or buy something that I don’t really need.
I have also found “don’t need” lists to be a helpful starting point when starting a new season or buying anything in bulk. Example- at the beginning of a new season, write out a list of what you think you need in a wardrobe for you or a child. Maybe for Summer you think you need- 6 pairs of shorts, 2 pairs of capris, 4 dresses, 2 swimsuits, 10 t shirts. Then see what you have and where you fall short and keep the lists handy. This method can help you when you find an adorable t-shirt, but see that you already have 10 t-shirts, so another shirt wouldn’t be worn enough.
Continuing with this example, I know that if I have too many t shirts for my daughter, she won’t wear them all and they will only contribute to a packed drawer that will keep getting messy whenever she rummages through it. Having t-shirts on my “don’t need” list will stop me from buying the adorable t-shirt I found because it will remind me that I really have enough already.
If you’re trying not to spend, remove the temptation:
Unsubscribe from store emails.
Find alternatives to window shopping. Do you ever want to go to Marshall’s or Target just to see what they have? No? Just me? ;)
Make an agreement with yourself that you will stick with your lists.
Before buying an item, ask yourself these questions:
What do I already own that looks like/functions like this item? i.e. Do I really need this?
How will I use this item in the next two weeks (month, or season)? i.e Make sure that this is something you will use and not something that will languish in a closet and be forgotten (for seasonal items, ask how you will use it in the season). You may find a great deal on a pair of ski goggles, but if you haven’t skied in five years and don’t have a ski trip booked, you may want to reconsider the purchase for now.
If the item is on sale, would you pay full price for this item? If not, take a moment to consider whether this is an item that you need or whether the draw is more about getting a good deal.
Is this item an impulse purchase or located near the register? i.e. beware the amazing power of marketing and product placement!
Do I need this today? If not, maybe take a picture of the item and decide that if you still want it tomorrow or in three days or in a week, you can come back for it.
Don’t Be Afraid to Bring it Back
If you have made a purchase that you now regret, don’t be afraid to return it. It can be a pain, but will get your money back in your pocket and the item back on the shelf for someone else to use it. Note- Pay attention to return policies, they seem to be getting tighter and tighter!
On a related note, if you are buying something that you may want to return, know what your return plan is and make sure it is actionable.
Rely on other resources
Your local library
Books
Magazines
Some libraries have a way to “check out” physical items like cooking pans, tools, artwork, etc.
Check out the Boston Public Library, where you can join to get access to many online resources, like e-books
Post on local Facebook groups to borrow an item
Only need an electric drill for one project? Ask a local group or email friends to borrow one.
Join forces with neighbors or friends
Get together with neighbors to purchase larger, more seldom used items. Example: we own a snowblower with four other families on our street. No one has a giant area to snow blow, but we would all appreciate a snowblower for faster snow removal. By sharing one, we cut costs and save storage space.
