Amazon is convenient. Maybe too convenient. That "Buy Now" button is designed to make you click without thinking. But here's the thing: Amazon doesn't always have the best price.
Studies show Amazon's prices fluctuate multiple times per day, and identical products are often cheaper on eBay, Walmart, or directly from manufacturers. We've seen price differences of 30-50% on the same exact item.
Here are 5 strategies we use every day to make sure we never overpay:
1. Always Compare Before You Buy
This sounds obvious, but most people don't do it because it's "too much work." That's where price comparison tools come in.
The STIM Saves browser extension automatically checks eBay prices when you're on Amazon. No extra tabs, no manual searching. If there's a better deal, you'll see it right on the page.
eBay sellers often list the same products as Amazon for 20-40% less because they don't have Amazon's fees. The product is often shipped from the same warehouse.
2. Check Price History
Amazon's prices change constantly. That "limited time deal" might actually be higher than last week's regular price. Tools like CamelCamelCamel and Keepa track Amazon price history so you can see if it's really a deal.
Real example: We saw a coffee maker "on sale" for $89 (was $129). Price history showed it was $79 just two weeks ago. Not much of a sale.
3. Use the 24-Hour Rule
For any purchase over $50, wait 24 hours before buying. This prevents impulse buys and sometimes Amazon even drops the price knowing you're interested.
4. Check for Warehouse Deals
Amazon Warehouse sells returned and refurbished items at significant discounts. Look for "Used - Like New" or "Used - Very Good" conditions - often indistinguishable from new at 30% off.
5. Scan In-Store Before Buying
Shopping at Target, Walmart, or Best Buy? Scan the barcode before you buy. The STIM Saves app has a barcode scanner that instantly checks online prices.
Last week we scanned a Ninja blender at Target: $149. Same model on eBay: $89 with free shipping. Saved $60 in 10 seconds.
The Bottom Line
- ✅ Install a price comparison extension
- ✅ Check price history on big purchases
- ✅ Wait 24 hours on non-essentials
- ✅ Consider warehouse/refurbished options
- ✅ Scan barcodes when shopping in-store
These habits take almost no extra time but can easily save $500+ per year. Your spare time IS money.