While we’ve sought out the best bargains, it’s important that you, the reader (and shopper), understand that the word “deal” has a whole new meaning this year, given the escalating prices we’ve seen. “Shoppers should know that just because an item is marked down doesn’t guarantee it’s a good deal,” Kristin McGrath, shopping expert and editor of The Real Deal by RetailMeNot, told The Post. “It’s not uncommon for companies to mark up a product before it goes on sale, so knowing the product’s price history is a great way to really know if the price you’re paying is really considered a good deal.” RetailMeNot Click to go to our list of products under $25:

What makes a good deal? How are the “deals” different this year?

A good deal, according to Kristen Gall, Rakuten’s Retail & Shopping Expert, is when you know for sure that the item you’re looking for won’t be found at a cheaper price than the one currently marked, ensuring it’s below retail value. “If an item isn’t specific to a particular store, such as electronics, grocery, and other related categories, do your research to see if you can find what you’re looking to buy at a better price elsewhere,” she suggests. Our recent survey also revealed that 88% of those with Prime memberships say they will shop on Prime Day this year. However, while they will be shopping the event, it won’t be as big. The average Prime Day shopper plans to spend $388 on Prime Day this year, a sharp drop from 2021, when we saw an average Prime Day planned spend of $594. Kristin McGrath, shopping expert at RetailMeNot

How inflation affects this year’s markets

“The word ‘deal’ takes on a new meaning with inflation because prices are so high, so deals feel kind of innocent to many consumers,” notes Gall. With this, we are seeing an excess of inventory in stores, forcing retailers to discount many products and offer discounts to clear their inventory. Because of this, consumers must quickly adjust to another “new normal” as inflation hits 40-year highs. “Amidst all this focus on concentration and spending, consumers continue to change their buying habits and mindsets to accommodate rising prices,” adds McGrath. “That means tighter budgets for upcoming events, cutting back on non-essentials and turning to coupons and other money-saving tactics.”

The best value products to buy this Prime Day, according to our experts

2. Clean Magic Eraser (10-pack), $9, originally $15

There is nothing more powerful than Mr. Clean. Get a 10-pack for under $10 this Prime Day to make your stove, fridge and other surfaces sparkle. For a premium home cleaning product, you can’t go wrong.

3. Comwarm Fuzzy Cross-Band Plush Slippers, $20, originally $24

4. Gillette Venus Soft Bikini Trimmer, $19, originally $30

If you’re looking for an affordable hair removal tool, the Gillette Venus Gentle Bikini Trimmer is $10 off this Prime Day to grab. It’s great for sensitive skin, helps you get a seamless look under your bikini bottom, and will last for quite some time.

5. Altec Lansing NanoPods Wireless Headphones, $21, originally $33

According to our shopping experts, a pair of wireless headphones is one of the best buys this Prime Day. At just $21, Altec’s Lansing NanoPods are a great buy, come in a variety of colors, and are priced affordably enough to make you want to pick up more than one.

6. GE LED+ Outdoor Security Lights with Motion Sensors (2-Pack), $13, originally $21

Both unique and practical, GE’s LED+ outdoor security lights with motion sensors cost less than $15 and are impressively bright. This two-pack will keep your outdoor space well-lit and well-protected.

7. Duracell Optimum AA Batteries (28-pack), $19, originally $29

One household item you want to always have on hand is undoubtedly a battery pack. Get 28 AA batteries from Duracell for under $20 in case your remotes or other devices suddenly die (which no one loves).

8. Laneige Multi Deep-Clean Antioxidant-Rich Exfoliating Cleanser, $16, originally $23

For your skincare routine, a quality cleanser. And, what better than Laneige’s Multi Deep-Clean Cleanser that has similar properties to your favorite exfoliator. Not to mention, the brand’s fan-favorite Lip Sleeping Mask is also on sale.

9. Glad ForceFlex Tall Kitchen Drawstring Garbage Bags (110-pack), originally $16: $19

Don’t walk – run. Glad’s ForceFlex Garbage Bags are just $16 (shout out in our seats) and are a must-have for everyone’s home. Plus, they’re made with Febreze spill protection and freshness, making them one of the best for your kitchen.

10. Eucerin Sun Advanced Hydration SPF 30 Sunscreen Lotion + Age Defense SPF 50 Face Sunscreen Lotion, $20, originally $27

For a limited time – and just $20 – Eucerin’s sunscreen combo (for both your body and face) is on sale in time for long days at the pool or beach. Plus, both are infused with hyaluronic acid to keep your skin looking healthy all day long.

11. Binder Clips (100-Count), $8, originally $11

We’re kind of talking about the clip binders that are on sale this Prime Day. For less than $10, treat yourself (and your desk!) to 100 of these bad boys so you never miss a paper. Plus, it’s a great Prime Day class, a must if you’re a teacher.

12. Matein Travel Laptop Backpack, $24, originally $42

Check out our New York Post Shopping section for more content.