Kiplinger

10 Worst Things to Buy on Amazon

It's become second nature for many online shoppers to go straight to Amazon.com to make a purchase -- especially Amazon Prime members who shop using their voice-activated Alexa devices. And why not? Amazon's selection is vast, its prices tend to be low, and the free two-day shipping that comes with a Prime membership is reliable and convenient.

But while Amazon does, indeed, offer many great deals on many items, it doesn't always offer the best deal on every item it sells. We asked several shopping experts to weigh in on which products online shoppers should avoid on Amazon. While cost is critical, it's not always the deciding factor. Take a look at some of the worst things to buy on Amazon.

Name-Brand Clothing and Accessories

Getty Images

Most major department stores, specialty stores and big-box retailers that sell name-brand clothing and accessories regularly offer in-store coupons and online discount promo codes. These are savings that you simply won't get on Amazon. "You can easily spend at least 20% more buying name-brand clothing from Amazon compared to clothing-specific retailers such as Lands' End, American Eagle or Macy's," says Kyle James, founder of Rather-Be-Shopping.com, a site that aggregates in-store and online coupons and discount codes.

We found a Cole Haan Payson Leather Tote on Amazon for $270. The same handbag was e-commerce site -- nearly 50% less. A Movado Men's Museum Watch priced at $184.99 on Amazon cost $5 less on through its third-party marketplace.

You’re reading a preview, subscribe to read more.

More from Kiplinger

Kiplinger3 min read
Social Security Is Pushing You to Work Longer – Can You Still Afford to Retire Early?
Are you thinking of retiring soon?  Perhaps earlier than you had planned years ago?  A potential hurdle could be the incentives set up by the Social Security Administration – they calculate your benefits to reward you for staying in the workforce.  
Kiplinger5 min read
4 Steps for Managing Income Withdrawals in Retirement
If you’re like most Americans nearing retirement, you’re worried about whether you have enough savings. In fact, only 22% of those approaching retirement believe they’ve saved enough to retire comfortably. At a time when the stock market is down, inf
Kiplinger3 min read
I’ve Inherited a Lot of Money. Now What?
It’s no surprise that many people who inherit millions of dollars are uncertain about what to do with their newfound wealth. The possibilities of becoming a multimillionaire overnight can be overwhelming, especially during a period when most are grie

Related Books & Audiobooks