How to avoid impulse buying and save money

Have you heard of the latest shopping trend? It’s called “intentional shopping,” and a whopping two-thirds of Canadians are practicing it to avoid impulse buying, according to a 2022 study by Interac.

Curious to know more? You aren’t the only one feeling the pinch financially. The 2022 MNP Consumer Debt Index found that “the average Canadian has less disposable income overall as they pay more for life’s necessities.”

With 76 per cent of Canadians stressing over money, according to the Angus Reid Institute, it’s a great time to adjust your shopping habits. Here are our top tips and tricks to save more of your cash.

Plan your shopping trips in advance

Before leaving the house, plan your route by grouping stops by location. For instance, if you need groceries, pharmacy items, and hardware, visit them all in one trip. Combining your kids' drop-offs with nearby errands also saves time and gas. This strategic approach reduces travel and helps you resist spontaneous purchases.

If an item isn't urgent, wait until you have another errand near that store. This waiting period allows you to reconsider the purchase and realize you don't need it or find a better deal elsewhere. For example, if you see a sweater you like, hold off. By the time you return, you might have changed your mind, or it could be on sale. This pause often leads to more satisfying purchases and helps avoid buyer's remorse, leading to significant savings over time.

Make a list and stick to it

You’ve heard this advice before, but it remains one of the best ways to protect your bank account. Stores use clever layouts and tempting displays to encourage impulse buys. A solid shopping list acts as your shield against these retail tricks.

Before heading out, jot down everything you need, including meals, household supplies, and gifts. Getting input from family members beforehand can prevent extra trips or unnecessary duplicates. Walking in with a list helps you focus, avoids aimless wandering, and provides a sense of accomplishment as you cross items off. If you see something not on your list, pause and ask if it’s a need or just a want. This habit will help you cut down on impulse buys and keep spending in check.

Making a list also lets you review weekly sales in advance to get the best prices. It keeps you focused when surrounded by flashy promotions, so you only buy what you actually need. If writing a list feels like a chore, turn it into an enjoyable routine with coffee or music. Many people find it satisfying to check off items, turning a mundane errand into a small ritual. Over time, this simple habit leads to significant savings and a pantry stocked only with items you'll use.

Consider grocery delivery

Ordering groceries online or using a curbside pickup service is a simple way to dodge the impulse-buying trap. When you shop from your couch, you avoid the tempting smells from the bakery and the bright packaging in the snack aisles, making it easier to stick to your list. Online shopping also lets you compare prices between stores to ensure you're getting the best deal. Many platforms highlight sales or allow you to filter for discounted items, helping you stay on budget. It’s easy to add or remove items before checkout, and seeing the running total helps you track your spending in real time.

Shopping online also lets you check your fridge and pantry as you fill your digital cart, preventing you from buying a third jar of peanut butter or another box of pasta you don't need. You can pause to check expiry dates and review meal plans before committing to a purchase. Even with a small delivery or pickup fee, the money you save by skipping impulse buys like extra desserts or fancy cheeses often covers the cost. Plus, many grocery apps offer digital coupons and rewards, adding to your savings.

Ask yourself if you truly need it

Before making a new purchase, pause and ask yourself: Is this a want or a need? Consider if you already own something similar that could be repaired or used more often. Sometimes, waiting a day or two can reveal that you don't need the item after all. If a sale tempts you, add the item to a wish list and revisit it later. Reflecting on past purchases can help you identify what adds value versus what becomes clutter, guiding you toward better financial habits.

You can also seek out less expensive alternatives. For items you'll only use once, like a power tool for a specific project, consider borrowing from a friend or a local lending library. For special occasions, renting an outfit is often cheaper than buying. High-quality secondhand items are also available at thrift stores or online marketplaces. Choosing store brands over name brands can lead to significant savings over time. By weighing your options before buying, you’ll watch your savings grow.

Take advantage of Member rewards

Even when making a planned purchase, you can still stretch your dollars. CAA Members can earn CAA Dollars® by shopping at CAA Rewards eStore. It’s a simple step to save more while getting items you love from retailers like Well.ca, DAVIDsTEA and Sephora.