Constantly getting emails from your favorite stores tempting you to check out their websites? I don’t know about you but I always feel the urge to click and scroll on the websites for hours. I get caught up in the moment and next thing I know boxes are arriving at my door. I know it can be difficult to stop yourself from buying things but I have come up with questions and suggestions to think about before possibly buying items.

The first thing you should ask yourself is if you need the item. Then you begin to think, “well…. I don’t necessarily need this item I just want it.” Make sure you know the difference between wanting something and needing something. You may want another sweater even though you have three just like it at home in your closet. Or you may need the sweater because all your other ones ripped.

Another thing to think about is how often you will be wearing the item and if you will get good use out of it. Will you be wearing the item multiple times or just once? Could you wear the item with multiple outfits? You don’t want to spend your money on one thing and only wear it once. Make sure the item fits with other outfits you may own. If you need inspiration just check out Pinterest to help you!

Next, you need to ask yourself, “Is it worth the money?” The more expensive the item is the better quality it should be, so it can last you a long time. You might want to splurge on getting something more pricy so it can last you in the long run. Also, make sure that the material the item is made out of is of good quality. You don’t want to buy something that will rip in a month.

That brings to me to something else you should consider: “Is the item following a trend?” If you are buying a trendy sweater or something you think will go out of style, consider opting for the cheaper sweater. In the end, you might not end up wearing it that often so it will be better for your wallet to opt for something less pricey.

Lastly, consider when shopping if the item is on sale or if you have a coupon for it. Most things that you shop for can get discounted whether you use your student ID or use a coupon. Look into ways of getting coupons. You can sign up for emails or go onto retailmenot.com to receive coupon codes. Maybe you might consider getting the credit card for your favorite store where you can earn great discounts. Any coupon you find can make a difference! Personally, I rarely buy things full price because I like the challenge of getting a good deal on an item. Who knows, maybe you will too.

Make sure to consider these things before you add items to your shopping cart! In the end, your credit card will thank you!