Smart Shoppers Start Prepping for 618 Right Now. Here's Exactly What to Do.

618 is about a month away. But if you’re like me, you already know the smartest shoppers aren’t waiting until June to prepare.

Last year I made the classic mistake: got caught up in the moment, saw the “deals”, and ended up with three shopping bags full of stuff I didn’t actually need. When I did the math later, about a third of my “savings” were completely illusory.

This year I’m doing it differently.

Step 1: Make a “Need” List, Not a “Want” List

The difference between “this is on sale” and “this is a good deal” is whether you actually needed it in the first place.

My rule: only buy consumables I know I’ll use within 3 months (toilet paper, laundry detergent), or items I was already planning to purchase anyway. Everything else waits.

Step 2: Check Historical Prices First

Many merchants raise prices before the promotion then claim a huge discount. “50% off” means nothing if the “original price” was inflated.

Use price tracking apps (I use 慢慢买 and 比价查) to see the actual price trend over the past 3 months. Only buy if the 618 price is genuinely below the average.

Step 3: Add Items to Cart Now

Popular items sell out. Adding things to your cart on promotion day means you’re already too late for the best deals.

Save items you want now, track their prices, and strike when the moment is right.

Step 4: Set a Hard Budget Cap

The most important rule: set a total spending limit before the promotion starts, and enforce it ruthlessly.

My approach: budget 20% below what you actually plan to spend. The “extra” budget almost never gets used, but having it prevents the feeling of deprivation that leads to impulse purchases.

Happy (smart) shopping!