We know that festive season, especially Chinese New Year tends to make consumers buy more and shop more. All of us here are consumers, we buy all kinds of services and goods. Therefore, we need to know how to be a wise consumer so that we do not fall victim to unscrupulous retailers who were taking advantage of our ignorance. Here are some tips for you consumers out there!

1. Avoid using credit cards to buy goods

When you buy using your credit card, you are actually adding to the cost of the product because you will have to pay interest to the credit card vendor. Plan your budget before you go shopping. Sometimes, you will forget what items you buy if you frequently use credit cards.

2. Make a shopping list before you go shopping

List down all the items that you need to buy to avoid impulse purchases. Buy the items that you need. Salespersons can be very persuasive and you will find it difficult to say, ‘No, thank you!’. The worst of all is that some retailers will do their best to lure you into buying their products.

3. Shop around 

You shouldn’t buy the first item you see. As a wise consumer, you should realize that you need to look through all the products available and compare their prices and promotions that they are having. Sometimes, some shops will provide discounts and special deals. You may find the same products going at a lower price at different outlets.

4. Try to buy in bulk

This is good because you make fewer trips out in the car. Hence, you can save your time and petrol. You should only buy as much as you need and the items can be used within their expiry dates.

5. Go down the aisle and search the shelves carefully

Look for items that are placed high or low on the shelves. Such items are often cheaper compared to higher-priced brand name products that are conveniently placed at the consumer’s eye-level. Many items that are over-priced often placed at the eye-level of the consumer.

I know some of you may think that these tips can only save you a few bucks, but believe me, after some time you will realize that you have actually saved a lot after practicing these tips. Being a smart consumer is not difficult, all you need to do is to make a few changes to change your shopping habits and practice self-control.