The ultimate “should I buy checklist” for shopping smarter (and still having fun)

It’s on your Amazon cart, it’s on Facebook, it’s on Instagram and Pinterest. Maybe it’s a scented candle or ice cube trays shaped like stars. Before you click, you need a should I buy checklist.

It’s consumerism at its finest. Don’t you feel the strength of your buying power?

In this economy, maybe not—but the urge is strong. That wonderful, glorious “add to cart” click. That “drop everything on a Saturday morning, grab a matcha, hit Marshalls and HomeGoods, and make a quick stop at Sephora” feeling.

But…the same algorithms and urges make us hunger for more and more. (Check out Refine’s article on microtrends to see what I mean.) Retail therapy can be the right medicine on occasion, but not all the time. Here’s how to curb your spending and ask yourself the ultimate question: Do I really need to buy this?

A cute and clever shopping reality check

Let’s start here. Whatever you’re shopping for, this list can help you reign it in before you “accidentally” order a cart full of kitchen gadgets you’ll never use.

Do I need this item? (Basic, I know.)
If I buy this, will I regret it later?
Am I already on the fence about purchasing this? (Hint: the fact that you’re even asking this question may indicate you don’t really need it)
Am I buying this solely because the packaging or images are amazing? Or because it’s trendy?
Am I buying this just for the dopamine hit I get from buying something?
Will this item genuinely improve my quality of life?
Where and how will I use this? Can I realistically store it in my space?

Clothes and accessories: Are you actually going to wear it?

This quick mental check will keep your closet—and your wallet—happy while making sure your style game stays strong.

Do I have something almost identical already?
Do I really need it in every color?
Will I wear this outside of the special occasion I’m imagining? (Challenge: list three places you’ll wear this piece other than a special occasion)
Is it within my budget?
Is this piece an investment in my style and personal aesthetic?
Am I buying this to boost my self-esteem or fit in?
If I hadn’t seen this on someone else, would I still want it?
Will this look as good on me as it does on the rack?

Cosmetics: Are you glowing or just collecting clutter?

Beauty aisles are basically candy stores for adults. Let’s keep your glow up—and your budget—intact.

Do I already own something almost identical?
Is it really worth the price? Is there a cheaper knock-off option that works just as well?
Am I buying this out of necessity — or insecurity?
Will this product enhance my natural beauty?
Will this end up sitting untouched in a drawer?

Groceries: Is it a pantry staple or a moment of weakness?

From mimosas at brunch to late-night ice cream runs, here’s how to keep your grocery cart — and your cravings — in check.

Will I eat this before it expires? (Hint: name a specific recipe you can make with the item)
Is this a pantry staple or an impulse buy?
Have I bought (and liked) this before, or am I just seduced by cool packaging?
Can I get this cheaper somewhere else or at a later date?
Will this pair well with the food already in my cart?
Is this a must-have or just a nice-to-have?
Could I DIY this at home for less? (Especially important for bakery items or pre-made meals!)

Thrifted goods: Treasure or trap?

Thrift stores are basically real-life treasure hunts. But remember: not all treasures need to come home with you.

Will it need costly or time-consuming alterations?
Is this cute, or is it giving granny vibes?
Is it charmingly vintage — or falling apart?
Have I wanted something like this for a while, or am I just drawn to the price?
Can I maintain or care for this properly? (Hint: check the care label before you buy!)
Would I still want it if it were full price?
Could I use the money for something more essential?
Am I more excited by the hunt than the actual item?