Five Methods for Avoiding Impulse Purchases
Simple ways of minimizing buyer's remorse
I have been successfully adhering to my no-buy list for 2026 and I intend to keep it that way.
In addition to having a no-buy list, I have also been using the following methods to avoid impulse purchases, and by extension, buyer’s remorse.
Method No. 1
If I feel the urge to purchase something, I order a household essential that needs to be re-stocked instead.
Example
If my mood is poor and I’m itching to shop, I usually tell myself to purchase something essential like laundry pods or canned tomatoes rather than something frivolous. More often than not, the act of shopping itself is sufficient as a little pick me up.
Method No. 2
If I see an item that is beautiful but not functional, I try to list all the potential inconveniences that are associated with the item.
Example
I’ve seen many women carry mini bags recently. While the bags are visually appealing, a mini bag just isn’t practical for a chronic overpacker like me.
Method No. 3
I ask for wish lists from friends and family members for their birthdays and other special occasions well in advance. This way, when I feel the temptation to buy something that I don’t need, I can just purchase an item from someone’s wish list instead.
Example
My friend’s birthday is three months away, but her birthday gift is already wrapped and ready to go.
Method No. 4
I add all non-essential purchases above $50.00 to a personal wishlist for a month to reduce the likelihood of impulse buying. If I still want an item after the cooldown period, then I go ahead and make the purchase.
Example
I recently added a pearl necklace to my personal wish list. I don’t have a lot of jewelry, and a pearl necklace seems like a good investment piece.
Method No. 5
If I’m on the fence about an item, I watch an unboxing video or two to help me make a more informed decision. Unboxing videos often reduce the allure of an item, as it can no longer rely on flashy visuals or other marketing tactics.
Example
I considered upgrading my phone to a newer model for a while. Prior to adding the item to my personal wish list, I watched an unboxing video for the phone I wanted, and realized that it was not substantially different from my current one. As a result, my desire to replace my phone soon dissipated.
Do you have any strategies for avoiding impulse purchases? Let me know in the comments below.