Monthly sales events like 1.1 and 2.2 are engineered to trigger FOMO (fear of missing out), but with the right strategy, you can score genuine discounts without the debt.
Here are seven essential tips to help you master monthly sale madness on Lazada, Shopee and other online shopping sites:
1. The “Add to Cart” Early Rule
Never browse on the actual sale day. The ticking timers and “limited stock” alerts are engineered to trigger panic-buying. Instead, browse a week early and add items to your cart. On sale day, only check out what’s already there. If it’s not in the cart, it’s not on the list.
2. Set a “Hard” E-Wallet Budget
Avoid linking your credit card directly to the app. Instead, decide on a specific amount you’re willing to spend and top up your ShopeePay or Lazada Wallet with exactly that amount. Once the wallet is empty, your shopping session is over.
3. Use the 30-Day Delay for “Wants”
Distinguish between needs (detergent, diapers, snacks) and wants (a third pair of wireless earbuds). For wants, leave them in your cart for at least 30 days. If the sale arrives and you still genuinely believe the item will improve your life, buy it. Often, the urge fades long before the next 10.10 or 11.11 rolls around.
4. Stack Vouchers Strategically
Don’t just look at the price tag—true savings come from stacking. Always collect:
- Platform vouchers (e.g., free shipping)
- Store vouchers (found on the product page)
- Bank/payment promos (extra discounts for using specific cards
If you can’t find at least two vouchers to stack, the deal might not be as good as it looks.
5. Check the Price History
Sellers sometimes inflate prices days before a sale to make discounts look steeper. Use price-tracking tools or simply note the price a week before the event. If the “sale price” matches the regular price, skip it.
6. Prioritize Household Essentials
The best way to “win” a sale is by buying items you’d purchase anyway. Focus your budget on bulk household supplies like toiletries, canned goods, and skincare products. This saves money long-term and prevents overspending on trendy gadgets.
7. Avoid the “Flash Sale” Trap
Flash sales are the ultimate impulse triggers. They offer steep discounts, but often on items you never intended to buy. Before clicking “Buy Now,” ask yourself: “Would I still want this if it weren’t on flash sale?” If the answer is no, keep scrolling.
The Bottom Line
Sales are designed to make you spend, not save. But armed with these strategies, you control the cart and not the countdown timer. Shop intentionally, stack smartly, and remember: the best deal is the one you don’t regret tomorrow.