4 Traps of Using Shopping Apps

Using an app is probably the smartest thing that someone can do for shopping. A number of people agree and which is why the percentage of shopping app impressions have grown by 249 percent back in 2010.

Yet there’s a dark side to it all: using these apps can lead to impulse buying which keeps you spending than you really should.

That said, here are 4 traps that come with using shopping apps:

#1: Mobile payments

Apps like Google Wallet make accessing your money easier than most – just a tap should do. Yet the problem with this is that it devalues your money is changing the way you look at it. Ask yourself whether the item you want to purchase is worth doing so if you had to go get the cash.

#2: Daily deals

A number of apps such as Groupon, Gilt Groupe and Rue La La often tempt their customers with must-have items but also with a time limit attached. Try not to buy into this temptation but instead, bookmark it and come back to it another day. Chances are you will forget about it altogether.

#3: Games and rewards

Apps like Scan It!, Shopkick and Foursquare offer the best deals, coupons and savings even while you are in the store. Yet there’s a downside: you might have to visit these establishments and spend more in order to get the rewards.

#4: Advice from friends

Apps like Tanger Outlets and Simon Malls use the reach of Facebook  and your friends who post reviews and recommendations to get more buyers. However, beware of crowdsourcing that can influence impulse buying greatly. Just remember that the collective wisdom of your friends isn’t always right.