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I'm Researching 618 Shopping Before It Starts—Not Because I'm Broke, But Because I'm Smart

618, Shopping Guide, Saving Money, Pre-sale —

My colleague said I’m “already researching how to shop before 618 even starts” and thinks I’m being too early.

But what she doesn’t know is that last year, I was that person who “only started looking at the last moment” for 618. And guess what happened?

  • The air fryer I wanted had its price raised and then discounted, costing me an extra 50 RMB
  • Pre-sale items took half a month to ship because of stock shortages
  • I spent forever trying to meet the minimum spend for discounts, only to find I hadn’t actually reached the threshold

So this year I learned my lesson. Before 618 even started, I was already doing research.

The Right Way to Approach 618

First Wave: Late May Pre-Sale

618’s first pre-sale usually starts in late May. Many products will have a “pre-sale price” during this period, which is often cheaper than the official sale day.

But watch out: pre-sales have plenty of traps too.

First, check if the deposit is refundable. Some merchants set “deposit non-refundable” rules—if you pay the deposit, you’re locked in. Be careful.

Second, pre-sale inventory is usually tight. Popular items can sell out in minutes. So when you see something you want, don’t hesitate—grab it first.

Second Wave: June 1st “Opening Day”

June 1st is usually 618’s “opening day” promotion period. Discounts that day are often substantial, plus it’s spot sales—no waiting for pre-sale shipping.

My advice: buy large items like appliances and electronics on June 1st. Faster logistics, easier returns and exchanges.

Third Wave: 618 Day Itself

Many people think 618 day itself has the best deals, but that’s not necessarily true. Many merchants save their discount力度 for the final moment, but popular items might already be sold out by then.

My strategy: if I’ve already bought what I wanted during pre-sale and opening day, I don’t wait for 618 day itself. Buy early, enjoy early, avoid the long anxious wait.

What I’m Planning to Buy This Year

As a homebody, I use cleaning supplies, tissues, and laundry detergent every month—these are essentials. I’m planning to stock up on 3 months’ worth during 618.

Also, air fryer accessories (like racks, oil-absorbing paper) that don’t usually go on sale—I’ll grab those during 618 too.

And small kitchen appliances—this year I’m planning to buy an electric pressure cooker, hoping to get a good price during 618.

One Honest Warning

Sisters, you must be rational when shopping during 618!

Merchant tricks are endless—“limited time specials,” “first N customers get deals,” “stacking discounts”… It’s way too easy to buy impulsively if you’re not careful.

My experience: make a “must-buy list,” only buy what’s on the list, and refuse everything else. This alone helps you avoid at least half the traps.

Okay, I’m going back to my research. Sisters, if you have any 618 shopping tips, feel free to exchange in the comments!

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