It’s Prime sale time, so before I start sharing some of the things I use and recommend, let’s talk about how to actually SAVE money during one of these big online sales.

Because something being on sale does not automatically make it a bargain.

First — NEEDS before WANTS.

I keep a running list of things we need or things I know I’ll need to replace. A sale is a good time to check that list and see if any of those items have actually dropped in price.

And yes, I compare prices.

But I also consider the REAL cost of shopping.

If something is a couple of dollars cheaper at a store 15 or 20 miles away, am I really saving money after I use gas to get there? What about my time? And here’s another one — am I going to walk into that store for one $12 item and walk out $47 later because I saw three other things I suddenly “needed”?

Sometimes ordering the item and having it show up at my door really IS the frugal choice.

A few of my rules for shopping big online sales:

• Start with things you already planned to buy.
• Compare the sale price with other stores — don’t assume the big red SALE sign means it’s the cheapest.
• Look at the price per unit when buying household supplies or groceries.
• Don’t buy a six-month supply just because it’s cheaper if you don’t have the cash or space for it.
• Consider gas, travel time and the temptation of going into a store when comparing prices.
• Stock up on things you KNOW your household uses when the price is genuinely good.
• Replace things when needed — don’t “upgrade” perfectly good stuff just because the new version is on sale.
• Give yourself permission to buy nothing.

And my biggest rule?

A want at 40% off still costs money. A need at 40% off saves money.

I’ll be highlighting some things during the sale that I personally own and use — things that save me money, save me time, or simply make running this household easier.

But I’m never going to tell you that you NEED something just because it’s on sale.

The goal isn’t to get the most stuff out of Prime Day.

The goal is to get the most out of the money you were already going to spend.

Some of the links I share will be affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission if you purchase through them, at no additional cost to you.