“Buy One, Get One Free” deals sound amazing. Getting something extra for free seems like great savings. Retailers call these BOGO deals. But BOGO offers can trick you into wasting money. You might buy things you don’t need. Or you might end up throwing food away. Here are nine BOGO deals that often waste money.
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1. The Spoilage Factor for Perishables
BOGO offers on items with a short shelf life require careful consideration. Think about fresh produce, milk, yogurt, or baked goods. Unless you have immediate plans for both items, waste is likely. A large household might consume them quickly enough. Otherwise, the second “free” or discounted item often spoils. This results in food waste and eliminates actual savings.
2. Inflated Base Prices
A common tactic is for retailers to increase the item’s price. This happens just before or during the BOGO sale. This makes the discount on the second item seem more substantial. In reality, you might end up paying close to the normal price. Always try to be aware of an item’s typical price. Judge the BOGO value accurately based on that.
3. Temptation to Buy Unneeded Items
The allure of getting something for free can easily lead to impulse purchases. A BOGO deal might convince you to buy something unnecessary. Perhaps you wouldn’t consider it at its regular price. If that extra item ultimately sits unused, money was wasted. You didn’t save anything on an unwanted item.
4. Undermining Healthy Habits
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Grocery stores often feature BOGO deals on less healthy items. Think about chips, cookies, soda, candy, or processed snacks. Buying two unhealthy items instead of one can sabotage healthy eating goals. It encourages bringing home larger quantities of tempting foods. You might otherwise limit or avoid these items.
5. Less Desirable “Free” or Discounted Item
Sometimes BOGO deals are structured oddly. You must buy a specific, perhaps less popular product. Then you get a different, possibly less desirable item for free or discount. Carefully evaluate if you genuinely want *both* items. If the appeal lies only with the full-price item, the deal isn’t truly beneficial.
6. Creating Excess Clutter
Stockpiling non-perishable items like toiletries during a BOGO sale can be economical. But this only works if done thoughtfully. Buying excessive quantities solely because of the deal can lead to clutter. Disorganized storage spaces become a problem. Even non-perishables can degrade or expire over long periods.
7. Ignoring Cheaper Single-Item Alternatives
Before committing to a BOGO offer, compare prices elsewhere. It’s wise to check the single-unit price at competing stores. Sometimes, a competitor offers the item regularly at a lower price. Buying just one item there might be more economical. This is especially true if you didn’t require two units immediately.
8. High Total Cost Despite the Deal
For higher-priced goods, a BOGO deal still results in significant spending. Consider vitamins, specialty kitchen gadgets, or premium clothing. Even at half price or free for the second item, the overall cost might strain your budget. Consider if the total amount spent aligns with your financial plan. Assess the product’s true value to you.
9. Overlooking Better Discounts
A BOGO offer isn’t always the most advantageous way to save. Other promotions might provide greater savings on a single item. Look for targeted digital coupons or mail-in rebates. Check specific loyalty program discounts. Always explore all available saving options before assuming BOGO yields the best value.
Analyze BOGO Offers Carefully
“Buy One, Get One” deals leverage powerful psychology to drive sales. But they require critical evaluation from consumers. Before adding BOGO items to your cart, consider several factors. Will you use both items without waste? Do you genuinely need the product? Is the base price fair? Are better alternatives available?
By thoughtfully analyzing the true value and necessity, you can avoid common BOGO pitfalls. Ensure these promotions genuinely save you money, instead of being a waste of money. Don’t let them just encourage extra spending. Making informed choices is key to smart shopping. Be critical of deals that seem too good.
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