Are Amazon Prime Day Deals Worth It? 5 Key Factors to Consider

Some items are also cheaper at other times of the year. Furniture and kitchen appliances tend to be cheaper around Labor Day, while game consoles and toys tend to cost less around the holidays, McGrath said.

2. It’s a good time to stock up on essentials

While many people take advantage of sales like Prime Day for big purchases like a TV, it can be a good time to stock up on smaller essentials.

“Amazon gets a lot of buzz for its tech deals and big-ticket items, but it also has more boring, convenient deals on things you need to stock up on, like groceries and basics,” McGrath said.

She also pointed out that Amazon is offering Prime Day deals on services like Amazon Fresh, its grocery delivery service. Even if it’s not time to shop yet, taking advantage of some Prime Day deals could save you money, she said.

3. Watch out for flash deals and Amazon coupons

Look out for flash deals, special offers that only last for a limited time (and are more likely to sell out). McGrath recommends adding your Prime Day items to the “Save for Later” section of your cart. This allows you to keep an eye on prices without accidentally buying items too early.

If you’re looking for an item but the price still seems too high, McGrath recommends at least going to the product page to see if there are any coupons available. She once looked at a vacuum cleaner that was $100 off, but after visiting the product page, she noticed another $100 off coupon for Prime members.

“You really have to look for a lot of those little extra efforts,” she said.

4. Other retailers get in on the action

Amazon isn’t the only retailer offering sales this week, so comparing prices at other stores can be a way to make sure you’re getting a good deal.

“Every retailer under the sun is going to have sales right on top of Prime Day,” McGrath said.

Big-box retailers like Target and Walmart as well as smaller retailers have been offering sales and promotions this month. Like Prime Day, Walmart and Target’s sales also require a membership to their rewards programs, Walmart+ and Target Circle, respectively. Like Amazon Prime, Walmart+ offers a 30-day free trial and then costs $98 per year. Target Circle membership is free.

5. Avoid impulse purchases. More sales are coming

Prime Day lasts two days. That can create a sense of urgency, leading some shoppers to make impulse purchases. But if you weren’t planning on making a big purchase, don’t feel pressured to do so just because an item is on sale.

Other major seasonal sales are just around the corner, and many stores will be offering discounts on higher-priced items. McGrath also said Amazon tends to repeat deals, especially for its own products, around Black Friday.

Editor’s Note:Amazon is among NPR’s financial supporters.