Outlet shopping can be a great way to save money, but it’s not without its drawbacks. While outlet stores promise steep discounts, the deals aren’t always as good as they seem, especially when you’re shopping online. Here’s what you need to know before diving into the world of digital outlet shopping.

First, it’s important to understand that many outlet items are made specifically for outlets. These pieces are often manufactured with cheaper materials or slightly lower quality to keep costs down. For example, a shirt at a high-end brand’s outlet might look similar to what you’d find in their main store, but the fabric or stitching might not be up to the same standard. This doesn’t mean the products are bad, but it’s something to keep in mind if you’re looking for premium quality.

That said, there are still real deals to be had. Many outlet sites, like Nike Factory Store, J.Crew Factory, and Nordstrom Rack, offer deep discounts on last season’s styles or overstock items. You can often find products that were once full price at a fraction of the original cost, especially if you shop during big sales or use additional promo codes.

To get the best prices, try to time your shopping around major sales events, like Black Friday, Cyber Monday, or end-of-season clearances. Also, consider signing up for store newsletters to get early access to deals or exclusive outlet codes.

Ultimately, outlet shopping can be a smart way to stretch your budget, but it pays to do a little research before hitting that "buy” button. Make sure you’re getting a genuine deal and not just a cleverly marketed discount.