22 Things You Should Never Buy Full Price (And How to Save Big!)

Saving money is always a win, but it starts with knowing when to hold off on paying full price. Many items are frequently discounted or bundled with promotions, giving you a chance to spend less without compromising quality.

Retailers often mark up prices knowing that some consumers will buy immediately, while others wait for deals. Learning when and where to look for discounts can make a significant difference in your spending habits.

A 2024 study by McKinsey & Company highlights that 76% of consumers are actively trading down, meaning they are opting for lower-priced goods, delaying purchases, or seeking better value in their shopping habits. 

This shift shows that people are becoming more cautious about where their money goes. With prices on everything from groceries to electronics rising, knowing how to shop wisely has never been more important.

In this article, we’ll highlight 22 items that you should never pay full price for. You’ll learn when to buy these products, what sales to look out for, and insider tips to save money on everyday purchases. 

Are there any products you never pay full price for? Which of these tips do you already follow? Let us know in the comments!

Electronics (Laptops, TVs, and Smartphones)

Electronics are notorious for fluctuating prices throughout the year. Retailers slash prices during big sales events such as Black Friday, Cyber Monday, and back-to-school promotions. 

Waiting just six months after the release of a new smartphone or laptop model can also save you hundreds of dollars. Tech enthusiasts may want the latest gadget, but for most consumers, the previous version works perfectly well. 

Comparison sites like CamelCamelCamel help track price drops and alert you to the best deals.

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Designer Clothing and Handbags

High-end fashion brands are known for hefty price tags, but savvy shoppers know when to look for discounts. Seasonal sales, including post-holiday events, can offer significant markdowns. 

Outlet stores and online consignment shops are also great places to find designer items for less. Brands frequently reward loyal customers with exclusive sales, so signing up for email alerts is worth it. Fashion doesn’t have to break the bank when you time your purchases right.

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Furniture

Furniture retailers often hold sales during January and July to clear out old stock and make room for new collections. Holiday weekends like Memorial Day and Labor Day are also great times to find deep discounts. 

Buying floor models can be another cost-effective option, as these pieces are often heavily marked down even if they have minor imperfections. Don’t be afraid to negotiate, especially at independent furniture stores. A little effort can lead to significant savings.

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Mattresses

Mattresses are one of the most marked-up retail products, but there’s no reason to pay full price. Major sales happen during Memorial Day, Labor Day, and Black Friday. Retailers often run promotions that include free accessories like pillows or mattress protectors. 

Many online retailers offer better deals than brick-and-mortar stores and come with risk-free trial periods. Knowing when and where to shop can save you hundreds on this essential household purchase.

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Cars (New and Used)

Timing is everything when buying a car. Dealerships are more likely to negotiate prices at the end of the month, quarter, or year when they need to meet sales quotas. The end of a model year is also a prime time for discounts as dealerships try to make room for new inventory. 

Before stepping into a dealership, research prices on platforms like Kelley Blue Book and TrueCar. Being informed and patient can help you secure the best deal.

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Holiday Decorations and Supplies

Holiday decorations come with inflated prices during the season, but waiting until January can lead to massive discounts. Stores slash prices by as much as 75% as they clear inventory for the next holiday. 

Stocking up early on wrapping paper, lights, and ornaments can save you time and money when the holiday season rolls around again. Keep an eye on clearance sections, where hidden gems are often available for next to nothing.

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Jewelry (Especially Engagement Rings)

Jewelry, particularly engagement rings, sees significant markups during peak seasons like Valentine’s Day and Christmas. Shopping during non-peak periods is a smart way to save. 

Wholesale jewelers often provide better prices than traditional retailers, and they may even offer custom design options at lower costs. Understanding the 4 Cs (cut, color, clarity, and carat) will help you make informed choices. Timing and research are key to getting the best value.

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Gym Memberships

Joining a gym in January may seem tempting with all the promotions targeting New Year’s resolutions, but you’ll often get better deals during the summer months when memberships dip. 

Many gyms are willing to negotiate membership fees, especially if you commit to a longer-term plan. Don’t forget to ask about waiving initiation fees. Check if your employer offers any wellness benefits, which can reduce your overall gym expenses.

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Plane Tickets

Airfare prices can be unpredictable, but they follow certain trends. Booking domestic flights one to three months in advance and international flights two to eight months ahead can help secure lower fares. 

Tuesdays and Wednesdays are often the cheapest days to book and travel. Fare comparison tools like Google Flights and Hopper can alert you to price drops. Flexibility with travel dates and destinations can lead to substantial savings. 

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Hotel Stays

Hotel rates fluctuate based on demand, with weekends and holidays typically being the most expensive times to book. Planning your stay during off-peak seasons or mid-week can save you a considerable amount. 

Price comparison sites such as Booking.com and Hotels.com often offer lower rates and special promotions. Many hotels also provide discounts for memberships like AAA or military service. 

Loyalty programs are worth joining, as they frequently reward repeat customers with free stays or exclusive perks.

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Books and Textbooks

Brand-new books and textbooks come with steep prices, but alternatives abound. Opt for digital versions, which are usually more affordable. Used book stores and online platforms like ThriftBooks and eBay often have titles at a fraction of the original cost. 

Renting textbooks through services like Chegg can save students hundreds each semester. Library memberships are also invaluable, offering free access to countless titles, audiobooks, and even eBooks.

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Event Tickets (Concerts, Sports, and Theater)

Event tickets can come with high prices, especially when purchased directly from primary sellers. Waiting until closer to the event can sometimes yield discounted last-minute offers. Resale platforms such as StubHub and SeatGeek often provide competitive pricing. 

For major events, buying during the pre-sale phase can also secure better rates. Checking for group discounts or package deals is another way to cut down on costs.

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Baby Gear

Babies outgrow gear quickly, making it impractical to pay full price for items like strollers, cribs, and clothing. Gently used products from consignment shops and online marketplaces often look and function as if they were new. 

Major retailers frequently offer baby registry completion discounts, providing a percentage off remaining items. Seasonal sales are also common in the baby products category, allowing parents to stretch their budget further.

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Kitchen Appliances

Small and large kitchen appliances often see their best discounts during Black Friday, Cyber Monday, and holiday weekends. New models are released in the fall, making September and October the ideal time to find markdowns on older versions. 

Warehouse clubs and clearance sections are great for spotting deals. Buying appliances as part of a package can also lead to additional savings. Be sure to check for rebate offers as well.

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Subscription Services (Streaming and Magazines)

Subscription fees can quickly add up, but they don’t always have to hit your wallet at full price. Streaming services frequently offer promotions, especially during holidays or when launching new content. 

Magazine publishers often provide discounted yearly subscriptions when you renew directly through them. Bundling services can also lower costs, as some companies reward customers for using multiple platforms. Keep an eye out for student or family plan discounts.

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Home Improvement Supplies

Big-box home improvement stores regularly run promotions, particularly during spring and fall. Shopping during these periods for paint, power tools, and building materials can help you avoid paying full price. 

Clearance sections often feature items that have been discontinued but are still high-quality. Many retailers also price match competitors to secure your business. Loyalty programs can further reduce expenses through exclusive discounts and reward points.

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Seasonal Clothing

Retailers clear out seasonal clothing at the end of each season, making it the best time to buy coats, swimsuits, and sandals. Sales are common in January for winter wear and July for summer items. 

Outlet stores and warehouse sales are another great way to find deeply discounted apparel. Waiting just a few weeks after a new collection launch can also lead to price drops. Stock up when prices are lowest to get the best value.

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Pet Supplies

Pet care essentials like food, toys, and bedding can be expensive, but they frequently go on sale. Pet stores often run promotions during holidays or customer appreciation events. Buying in bulk is a smart way to lower the cost of food and treats. 

Loyalty programs can provide additional savings, and manufacturers often issue coupons through their websites or mailing lists. Price comparison tools help ensure you’re getting the best deal.

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Cleaning Products

Cleaning supplies are a necessity, but paying full price isn’t the only option. Many household cleaning tasks can be handled with DIY solutions made from natural and cost-effective ingredients. 

Vinegar, baking soda, and lemon juice are powerful and affordable alternatives to commercial products. Mixing vinegar with water creates an excellent glass cleaner, while baking soda can tackle stubborn stains and odors. 

Retailers often have sales during back-to-school and spring cleaning seasons. Warehouse stores sell bulk packs that reduce the price per unit, and coupons or cashback apps like Ibotta can help stretch your budget even further.

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Toys and Games

Toy prices typically peak during the holiday season, but post-holiday sales in January offer steep discounts. Retailers also mark down toys during the summer and back-to-school periods. 

Buying in advance for birthdays or holidays ensures you avoid the premium pricing that comes with last-minute shopping. Clearance sections in stores often have hidden treasures at unbeatable prices. 

Online marketplaces can also be a source for lightly used games at lower costs.

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Beauty Products and Skincare

Beauty products frequently come with high markups, but sales events like Ulta’s 21 Days of Beauty and Sephora’s Holiday Sale offer significant discounts. 

Drugstores often have buy-one-get-one promotions, and subscription boxes provide an affordable way to try new products. Retailers sometimes offer gift-with-purchase deals, adding extra value to your purchase. 

Loyalty programs also grant access to exclusive sales and rewards that reduce future expenses.

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Bedding and Towels

Bedding and towels see their best discounts during “white sales” in January. Department stores and online retailers often promote these events heavily, offering deep markdowns on sheets, comforters, and bath linens. 

Off-season purchases are another way to save, as prices tend to spike during back-to-school and holiday periods. Clearance sales can yield high-quality items at a fraction of their original price. Buying quality on sale ensures durability without overspending.

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Smart Shopping Starts Here

Smart shopping means knowing when to hold off on full-priced purchases. Understanding sales patterns, using loyalty programs, and comparing prices can help you stretch your budget without sacrificing quality. 

Many of the items on this list are frequently discounted, making it easier to save money year-round. A little patience and strategic planning go a long way in keeping your spending in check. 

Make it a habit to shop smarter and keep more money in your pocket. 

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AI was used for light editing, formatting, and readability. But a human (me!) wrote and edited this.