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The economy seems to be all anyone can talk about these days. No matter where you go, there’s talk of inflation, tariffs, and energy costs. Save the perennial pumpkin spice hullabaloo, the economy seems to be the only thing on everyone’s lips. Whether you’re looking for a deal on a luxury watch or a laptop computer, not spending a fortune is the main goal. Consumer sentiment is at historic lows, and that’s with good reason. The aforementioned economic stressors have consumers heading into this holiday season more strapped than ever before.

Even during trying times, Amazon is taking steps to help ease some of the financial burden on shoppers and recently announced its annual Prime Big Deal Days sales event. Also known to many customers as October Prime Day, this two-day event takes place on October 6 and 7, and offers massive markdowns on pretty much any type of product you can think of. The people who benefit most, though, are those with an Amazon Prime membership. While that’s not the only way to take advantage of discounts, it certainly increases your chances of getting your hands on the best deals since you’ll get access early. And some products are already 60% off and are selling fast. What’s more, you can try out Prime with a free 30-day membership before committing long-term, and the trial lasts throughout the big sale.

Amazon Prime Membership

Courtesy of Amazon

Why join Prime?

Amazon Prime is one of the best weapons any consumer has in their arsenal when battling the high cost of living. For starters, it helps you save on shipping costs. The vast majority of Prime-eligible products on the site offer free shipping for Prime members. That alone pays for itself within mere months if you’re a frequent online shopper. While free shipping is absolutely one of the main reasons that people choose to join Prime, it’s not even the main event. That honor goes to the millions of dollars worth of discounts available every day.

Not only does Amazon offer unbelievable deals each day in every product category just for Prime members, but it also allows you to take advantage of early deals before everyone else. For example, Prime members get early access to Lightning Deals. These are offers that tend to boast a massive price cut, but only for a limited time. Lightning Deals often sell out because the price is just too good to ignore. If you’re not a Prime member and don’t have early access to these deals, you may not have a chance to get in while the item is still in stock. Add to that the fact that Amazon Prime members also receive a membership for Prime Video, unlocking a world of entertainment 24/7.

With Amazon’s Prime Big Deals Days promotion coming up soon, the company seems to be posturing itself as the retail solution to consumer malaise. Inflation fatigue has reared its ugly head, and customers are fed up. That’s why it’s slashing prices almost universally and giving its shoppers a way out of the darkness. Prime Big Deals Days starts October 6th and runs for 48 hours straight. It’s only for Prime members, and new deals will be dropping three times per day across more than 35 product categories. This is a special treat for Amazon Prime members, and a way to beat the financial strain of the past year as you gear up for the holidays. In order to score the biggest savings, it’s ideal to check the site throughout the day to see what the latest markdowns are. 

Related: Walmart has a great Black Friday deal on a $70 set of stainless steel mixing bowls for only $17

After the sale announcement, you might be eager to see what kinds of deals to expect during the event. The good news is you don’t have to wait because we scoured the site to curate a list of early deals that are already live. You’ll see discounts up to 60% off and prices starting as low as $40 for big-ticket items. The following are a few of the most impressive deals we’ve seen ahead of Prime Big Deals Days. Some of them are exclusive to Prime members, and some represent Amazon’s recent overall price-cutting strategy for all consumers. 

Ubdxbd 2-in-1 AI-Enabled Laptop and Tablet, $110 (was $190) at Amazon

Courtesy of Amazon

Rattaner 3-Piece Wicker Sectional Patio Set, $202 (was $300) at Amazon

Courtesy of Amazon

Walker Edison Farmhouse Storage Cabinet, $90 (was $225) at Amazon

Courtesy of Amazon

Citizen Eco-Drive Odyn Luxury Watch, $198 (was $395) at Amazon

Courtesy of Amazon

Grezone Pop Up Canopy Tent, $40 (was $70) at Amazon

Courtesy of Amazon

Amazon is one of the companies doing its best to release some of the pressure on consumers’ budgets. Whether you’re a past, current, or future Prime member, now is as good a time as any to make sure your membership is up to date and start browsing early deals before the big rush.