Dosh dilemma: Dave keeps buying bargains to save money – but is he spending more than he needs to?

Dave loves a bargain. If something's on sale, he sees a chance to save money.

From a discounted air fryer to a second-hand pressure washer and enough toilet roll to supply a small hotel, Dave’s home is full of things he thought would save him money.

The only problem is - his credit card balance keeps growing.

So, is Dave really saving money, or is his love of a deal costing him more than he realises?

The problem with a bargain

A discount doesn't automatically mean a saving. If Dave spends £60 on something he doesn't need, he's still £60 worse off.

Buying in bulk isn't always cheaper either, especially if things go unused or take up space. And those tempting offers can soon add up, leaving Dave with less money in the bank and more credit card debt.

How can Dave break the bargain habit?

Ask himself one question

Would he buy it if it wasn't on sale? If the answer’s no, it probably isn't a bargain worth having. He should also consider whether he really needs it or already owns something similar.

Try the 48-hour rule

Waiting two days before buying non-essential items will give Dave time to think, compare prices and decide whether he really wants them. If the deal disappears, he may find he hasn't missed out at all, and that he’s even relieved he didn’t buy it.

Compare prices properly

Bulk buying can save money, but Dave should check the price per item, kilogram or litre rather than assuming bigger packs offer better value. He should also consider whether he'll actually use everything he buys.

Make impulse buying harder

Unsubscribing from promotional emails and removing saved card details from shopping apps can help Dave resist tempting offers.

Setting a monthly budget for non-essential spending will also help him stay in control.

Give his money a purpose

Rather than buying another gadget, Dave could put the money towards paying off his credit card, building an emergency fund or saving for a holiday.

Having a clear goal can make it easier to resist unnecessary purchases.

The real cost of a bargain

Dave doesn't need to give up bargain hunting. Finding a good deal on something he genuinely needs is a sensible way to save.

But there's a difference between spending less on something he needs and spending money simply because something’s on offer.

By pausing before buying and focusing on value rather than discounts, Dave could save more money by buying less.