Okay, so you want in on the GMA Deals and Steals action.
You know the segment—the one where the anchors hype up a blender or a kitchen gadget and then, suddenly, the price drops.
It’s catchy, right? But let’s be real, finding the show isn’t as easy as just turning on ABC at 7 a.m.
anymore. But there’s a catch.
Between streaming services and cable packages, it can get a little messy.
From what I’ve seen over the years, the hype is real for some products, but not all of them. Oddly enough,
The segment is curated, which is good, but it means you’re trusting the hosts to find the ‘best’ deal, even if it’s still full price.
I’ve spent way too many mornings staring at a screen trying to record the exact minute the shopping segment starts.
If you want to save time and actually snag some deals, you need a system.
Here is how I navigate the chaos of GMA Deals and Steals without losing my mind.
Where to Watch GMA Deals and Steals Live
The biggest hurdle? The broadcast schedule.
GMA Deals and Steals usually airs on Friday mornings, but it can be blocked on some regional networks or streaming apps.
If you don’t have cable, don’t panic.
You can usually catch it on major streaming platforms like Hulu + Live TV, YouTube TV, or Sling TV.
I found that YouTube TV is pretty reliable for ABC affiliates. Oddly enough,
If you miss the live airing, it usually hits the ABC website or app within 24 hours.
Just search for ‘GMA’ and look for the ‘Shopping’ tab.
It’s not always obvious, but it’s there.
Pro Tip: Set a Reminder
- Use your phone’s calendar app.
- Check the specific ABC affiliate website in your area (often they list the exact product being sold that day).
- Follow GMA’s official social media accounts; they sometimes drop links to the deals during the broadcast.
Spotting a ‘Real’ Deal vs.
Hype
Sure, the hosts are nice, but are you actually saving money? That’s the question.
Sometimes, the product is exclusive to the GMA shopping partners, meaning you can’t compare prices easily.
Other times, it’s just standard retail markup.
Here is the trick I use: I check the product on other sites immediately.
If the ‘Steal’ price is only $5 off the normal price, I usually skip it.
But if it’s 50% off or comes with a free gift, I’m clicking buy.
Also, look for the return policy.
Exclusive TV deals can sometimes be tricky if you don’t like the item once it arrives.
Most partners offer returns, but the process might be different than shopping on Amazon.
The Shopping Process: What to Expect
Once you find a product you like, the buying process is pretty straightforward.
You’ll usually be redirected to a third-party site (like QVC or HSN, or a specific brand’s page) to complete the purchase.
Make sure you have your coupon codes ready.
Here is the workflow:
- Watch the segment (or record it).
- Visit the link provided on screen.
- Enter your shipping info.
- Apply any promo codes (the hosts might mention one, or you can search online).
Mistakes People Make with TV Shopping
It’s easy to get caught up in the excitement.
I see people make the same mistake every single time: impulse buying.
You don’t need that garlic peeler *just because* the guy on TV made it look so easy.
Ask yourself: ‘Do I have this already?’ or ‘Do I actually use this daily?’ If the answer is no, put it back.
Most of these deals are curated to look essential, but half the time, they sit in a drawer.
Another thing to watch out for is shipping times.
Sometimes, because the inventory is limited, shipping can take two weeks. Now think about that for a second.
If you need something fast, TV deals aren’t always the best bet unless they explicitly say ‘2-day shipping.’
How to Stack Your Savings
If you really want to maximize your savings, combine the deal with other tools.
I like to use a browser extension that tracks prices across different sites.
This way, if GMA Deals and Steals lists a price, I can instantly see if it’s the lowest it’s ever been.
Also, check if the merchant offers cashback.
Sometimes, shopping through a cashback portal (like Rakuten) gives you an extra 1% to 5% off, which adds up, especially if you’re buying a $100 item.
Final Thoughts
So, should you tune in every Friday? Maybe.
It’s a fun way to kill time in the morning, and you do find some gems.
Just don’t let the hype dictate your wallet. Oddly enough,
Do your own quick research, and you’ll walk away with the deals without the stress.
Happy shopping.
Image source: pexels.com
Image source credit: pexels.com