There's a good chance that shopping for your essential items is about to get more expensive. Last month, President Donald Trump introduced a baseline 10% tariff rate on imports from other countries and a 125% rate (on top of the existing 20% tariff) on imports from China.
While it's still too early to tell exactly what the impact of these tariffs will be, experts say that you can expect to see price hikes on items across the board.
Below, we spoke with experts to answer all of your questions about the products that are likely to be the most impacted —and what might be worth grabbing now.
What are tariffs?Tariffs are taxes that an entity must pay when its goods are imported into a foreign country, says Jason Miller, a professor and interim chairperson of the department of supply chain management at Michigan State University. "Tariffs are paid based on the customs value of the imported goods."
How will the tariffs affect prices?There's still a lot of uncertainty as to what the tariffs may look like going forward. It was originally announced that there would be higher "reciprocal" tariffs on goods imported from a number of nations, but those are currently on a 90-day pause as negotiations take place. However, the 10% across-the-board tariffs and 145% rate for China are currently being implemented.
The high tariffs on China are concerning because the country is responsible for a large share of imports to the U.S., which Miller says includes small electronics like microwaves, mixers, blenders, curling irons, light fixtures, among other tech items, as well as toys and baby strollers and plenty more products.
With the higher price of importing these items, two main scenarios are possible: The companies that are importing the goods will cover the additional costs, completely or to an extent, or it will fall to the consumer.
"Ultimately, people are in business to make money," says shopping expert Trae Bodge. "And so what we think will happen, in most cases, is that that additional cost will filter down to the customer, which is why everyone is so concerned."
How much these tariffs might affect the prices of everyday items depends on a number of factors, which Miller explains include the margins made by exporters, importers and final sellers, the availability of alternative sourcing locations (for example, he says, we may see more laptop production shift from China to Vietnam, since a Vietnamese laptop currently faces a 0% tariff — at least for now — while one from China is taxed at 20%) as well as the size of the tariff.
"For example, the 145% China tariffs on small electrical appliances like microwave ovens and hair dryers or on baby strollers will likely double (or nearly double) prices of these items due simply to the size of the tariffs in question," Miller says.
What products are affected by tariffs?Unfortunately, most products will likely be impacted.
"It’s so broad right now," Bodge says. "What I’m hearing are the most problematic categories are things like electronics, and that includes everything from laptops to home appliances, and then clothing, shoes, toys, food — and that bleeds into wine, coffee — and also cars."
While buying from American brands may help you avoid some additional costs, it's not always so clear-cut. "Things are made with multiple parts and many parts are made in other countries. And those parts, we are not set up to make here," she shares.
What should you buy now?Hearing all this might lead you to immediately start filling up your cart with your favorite products and big purchases. But before you do that, take a breath. Bodge says it's not the time to "panic-buy."
Instead, think about the things that you might need in the coming months — things that need to be replaced, gifts you may need to give. Bodge says that if you are going to buy anything right now, it should be "bigger ticket" items, but only the ones you really need. For example, she has been thinking about getting a new mattress for her daughter’s room, so she’s planning on doing it over Memorial Day weekend when there might be some sales.
"If you have small electronic appliances that need [to be] replaced, buy them now," Miller says. "Those goods are primarily made in China and will likely see prices skyrocket come June or July, assuming the 145% tariffs remain (as the products on the store shelves at that time will have been subject to the high tariffs). "
So if you're thinking about buying those birthday gifts now, replacing some of your well-loved items or have had your eye on some new tech, here are the items to consider buying before potential price increases.
TechApple AirPods 4 Wireless Earbuds
What we like
- Active noise cancellation
- Voice isolation
- Connects to Find My app
Something to note
- Not completely noise-canceling
Apple does not have mass production in the U.S. and most of its products are manufactured in China, India and Vietnam. The brand's AirPods 4 are an editor favorite, thanks to the noise cancellation features and high-quality sound.
Nintendo Switch Lite
What we like
- Compact
- Multiple colors available
Something to note
- Some have charging issues
Nintendo's new Switch 2 is set to be released on June 5 and shoppers can begin preordering the device on April 24. Nintendo shared in a statement that it will remain at its previously announced price of $449.99. However, accessories for the new device will experience price adjustments due to market changes. Additionally, Nintendo shared that adjustments "to the price of any Nintendo product" are possible in the future.
That being said, if there are any Nintendo items on your list, you might want to add them to your cart now. This compact, lightweight version of the brand's popular device currently retails for under $200 and allows you to play all your favorite games, no matter where you are.
Apple iPad 11-inch
What we like
- Advanced cameras
- "Superfast" A16 chip
Something to note
- Multiple storage size options
If you've been using an outdated tablet and have been thinking about upgrading, consider grabbing Apple's most recent model while it's on sale. According to the brand, it has a Liquid Retina display, which features True Tone to automatically adjust the display to suit the color temperature of the room, so you can stream movies and TV shows in any light. You can also set it up with Touch ID for additional security.
Additionally, according to the Amazon price tracker, CamelCamelCamel, this device is at its lowest price ever.
Amazon Fire TV 43-Inch 4-Series 4K UHD Smart TV
What we like
- "Crisp picture quality"
- Voice control remote
Something to note
- Subscriptions additional cost
Consumer electronics is a category where the experts say you can likely expect price increases. So if it's time to replace your TV, now might be the time to do it. Amazon's latest Fire TV model is said to provide a clear, bright picture with vibrant colors. Plus, it allows you to stream live TV without cable.
Apple 2025 MacBook Air
What we like
- Up to 18 hours battery
- Lightweight
Something to note
- AppleCare+ additional cost
Senior editor Jess Bender is planning to replace her 10-year-old MacBook before any potential price increases. This new version of the Apple MacBook Air is said to feature a powerful processing chip that allows for speedy streaming, surfing, gaming and more.
ToysBarbie Careers Gymnastics Set
What we like
- Additional accessories
- Bendable limbs
Something to note
- Two styles available
Execs from Mattel (which manufactures toys in countries like Mexico, Malaysia and China) have previously shared that there may be potential price increases to its toys, which include Barbie and Hot Wheels.
This playset is a bestseller and comes with all the accessories they need to help Barbie nail her gymnastics routine.
Hot Wheels City Ultimate Garage Track
What we like
- Includes two vehicles
- Multiple play levels
Something to note
- Some have issues with launcher
Hot Wheels, another Mattel property, is always a hot choice for kids around the holidays. If you know a kid that will be asking for a new set in the next few months, it might be a good idea to buy it now, before any potential price hikes. This popular four-level playset is currently heavily discounted, so it's a great time to add it to your cart.
Lego Succulents
What we like
- Easy to follow directions
- Includes facts about plants
Something to note
- Some very small pieces
Lego has manufacturing and production facilities in a number of countries, including China, Mexico and Denmark, and the company just opened a new Vietnam factory this year.
Many members of our team are fans of the brand's sets, particularly its adult-friendly floral options. Bender spent an afternoon putting this set together with her boyfriend and said that the results were "breathtaking." "Despite the 770+ pieces it came with, it felt pretty easy to tackle over the span of a few hours thanks to the clear directions and separate brick baggies that it came with," she shared.
Furby Interactive Purple Plush Toy
What we like
- Over 600 responses
- Interact with other Furbies
Something to note
- Some complaints about battery
According to The Wall Street Journal, Chris Cocks, the chief executive of Hasbro, has shared that the company may need to consider raising prices on certain products if the tariffs hold. (Around 40% of its U.S. sales come from China.) The company's brands range from popular options like Nerf, Furby, Baby Alive and more.
That means that this cute, classic toy could be getting more expensive in the future. It has plenty of interactive features, including English and Furbish responses, dance moves and lights.
ApparelGap Women’s Favorite Crewneck Tee
What we like
- Variety of colors available
- Ranges from XXS - 3XL
Something to note
- Sheer fabric, per reviews
Gap Inc., which includes Gap, along with sister brands Old Navy, Athleta and Banana Republic, has factories in China, Vietnam, India and Indonesia, among other countries.
This shirt is the perfect everyday essential that you can easily style with your favorite jeans or skirt.
Adidas Samba OG Shoes
What we like
- Closet staple
- Durable, long-lasting design
- Completely unisex
Something to note
- Little to no arch support
The already-expensive sneaker industry is likely to be impacted, as many popular brands manufacture their shoes in other countries. For example, Adidas sources most of its footwear from Vietnam, as well as China and Indonesia.
Its Samba shoes are a popular option, as they fit the slim sneaker trend that's everywhere right now. Production coordinator Camryn Privette has owned hers for a year and still swears by them. "Since I walk over an average of 8,000 steps a day, I need shoes that not only walk the walk but talk the talk. And after countless wears, these definitely deliver!"
Brooks Ghost 16 Sneakers
What we like
- Solid arch support
- Comes in multiple widths
- Has ideal cushioning
Something to note
- Reviews mixed on comfort
While Brooks does some of its final assembly and material and component manufacturing in the U.S., it also works with factories across Asia and North and Central America, including Vietnam, China, El Salvador, Taiwan and more.
Senior social media editor Kate McCarthy has run multiple races, including marathons, 5Ks, 10Ks and even some triathlons in Brooks' Ghost sneakers. "While these shoes have joined me for thousands of miles on runs and walks, they aren’t only for pacing. They have also made appearances in HIIT and boot camp-style workout classes. Whether I’m toeing the start line of a marathon or strolling through Central Park on a lazy Sunday morning, these are the shoes I always reach for."
Hoka Clifton 9
What we like
- Roomy toe box
- Plush cushioning
- Wide width options
Something to note
- Can have wear and tear
I've been a fan of Hoka's sneakers for a long time — and I recently compared the brand's popular Clifton 9 sneakers to a bestselling pair from Asics and these shoes were my clear favorite.
They provide shock absorption and cushioning with each step, making them a great choice for walks, runs and even casual errands. They have a MetaRocker, so steps feel smooth and natural and you transition from your heel to your toe.
HomeCosori Air Fryer 9-in-1
What we like
- Temperatures up to 450℉
- 9-in-1 design
Something to note
- Some say noisey
Both experts emphasized the fact that home appliances would likely be heavily impacted by the tariffs, so if you have a kitchen gadget or a larger machine, like a dishwasher or washing machine that's on its way out, this would be a good time to replace it.
Air fryers have become a popular choice for those hoping to make their favorite snacks or crispy bites using less oil. This 9-in-1 device is designed to roast, air fry, bake and dehydrate all kinds of foods.
Toshiba Countertop Microwave Oven
This bestselling microwave has more than 39,000 perfect five-star ratings from shoppers, who say that it's a great option for prepping and reheating a variety of foods. The brand says that it has a large digital display and plenty of preset buttons, for ease of use.
Tuft & Needle Original Mattress
What we like
- Supportive for tummy sleepers
- Cooling technology
Something to note
- Ships in box, needs to inflate
Tuft & Needle is having a spring sale, so you can save on a new mattress right now. This one is a favorite of commerce writer Danielle Murphy.
“I’ve had this mattress for maybe six years, and it’s still so incredibly comfortable. It’s made with a cozy adaptive foam, which is meant to accommodate back and stomach sleepers (I fall into the latter category)," she says. "I convinced my sister and her husband to order one, and they love it too.”
Will toilet paper be affected by the tariffs?It's not just the large items that might be affected by these tariffs, smaller household essentials could be as well. With potential increased costs on wood, bamboo, shea butter and more, things like toilet paper, diapers, lotion and shampoo may go up in price, CNBC previously reported.
However, Bodge stresses that filling your cart in a panic is not a good strategy. "The cost of your toilet paper might go up 30 cents, it's exponential. I just don’t think it’s worth going to Costco and buying 36 rolls, unless you have a big family and you would normally do that anyway," she says. "A lot of Americans are on a very tight budget, so these conversations around panic-buying really concern me. Because if you’re living paycheck to paycheck, you can’t rush out and fill your car at Costco, it’s a big hit on your monthly budget."
Frequently asked questions
Many of the changes depend on the outcomes of the current negotiations. However, Miller says, "I expect these tariffs will start to affect prices by June or July for many consumer items like small electronic appliances and motor vehicles."
Now is the time to really lean into using smart savings strategies, Bodge says. If you are buying a splurge item, certain retailers have credit cards with introductory offers that include 0% APR for a given period of time, which she says may give you some more "wiggle room" and extra time to pay off the item that you need. Others will give you increased cash back or other rewards that can help cut the cost.
She suggests using a coupon site to ensure you're getting deals wherever possible. (The Shop TODAY Savings extension can help with that.)
We spoke with financial and shopping experts about the items that they expect may be impacted by tariffs. We used their guidance to highlight the expert-approved or top-rated items that may be worth buying before any potential price increases.
Meet our experts- Jason Miller, PhD, is a professor and interim chairperson of the department of supply chain management at the Broad College of Business at Michigan State University. His areas of expertise include entrepreneurship, motor carrier safety and supply management and procurement.
- Trae Bodge is a smart shopping expert and founder of True Trae. She is a frequent media contributor and provides tips and insights on how to save money and get more value from your purchases.
Emma Stessman
Emma Stessman is a writer for Shop TODAY.
