Regret a Purchase Made at a Fair or Pop-Up? Here’s What You Need to Know

We’ve all been there: caught up in the excitement of a state fair or pop-up market, dazzled by a salesperson’s pitch, and convinced to make a purchase on the spot. But what happens when that excitement wears off, and you’re left wondering, if you just made a big mistake? 

 

A recent consumer reached out with this exact dilemma. They bought a product from a vendor at a state fair, quickly felt buyer’s remorse, and then hit a wall when the vendor flat-out refused to offer a refund. Their question: doesn’t the Cooling Off Rule give you the right to cancel a purchase made somewhere other than a regular retail store?

 

The answer? Well, it’s not as straightforward as you might hope.

What Is the Cooling-Off Rule, and When Does It Apply?

The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) has a rule in place, aptly named the “Cooling Off Rule”, designed to protect consumers from high-pressure sales tactics in certain environments. But there are key limits to where and how it applies.

Sales pitches at fairs and markets are designed to spark impulse buys. (iStock)

Here's the short version:

The Cooling-Off Rule allows you to cancel certain purchases within three business days of the sale, only if the purchase was made at your home or at a temporary location (such as a hotel room, convention center, or a fairground).

 

So in theory, a state fair vendor might fall under this rule. But there are caveats. The rule also only applies to purchases of $25 or more made for personal, family, or household use. Also, certain types of purchases may be exempt altogether, like those involving real estate, insurance, or vehicles.

 

If your purchase meets the criteria, you may have the right to cancel.

How to Cancel Under the Cooling-Off Rule

Timing and documentation are everything. If you’re within the three-day window, here’s what to do:

  1. Write a Cancellation Letter: Clearly state that you’re canceling the sale. You don’t need to explain why.
  2. Mail It Promptly: It must be postmarked within three business days of the purchase.
  3. Keep Copies: For your records, keep a copy of your letter and any correspondence.

Once the seller receives your notice, they’re legally required to refund your money and make arrangements to retrieve any merchandise. They have 10 days to do this.

Missed the Three-Day Window? Here’s What to Try Next

If the deadline has passed, or if the seller is disputing your cancellation, you still have options. Consumer protection laws vary by state, and some go beyond the federal rules.

 

In Georgia, for example, while the state doesn't expand the cooling-off rule itself, the Attorney General’s Consumer Protection Division may be able to intervene in cases involving deceptive or unfair sales practices.

 

You have the right (and, in some cases, the responsibility) to file a complaint  with the Georgia Attorney General’s Office, consult the Better Business Bureau if the vendor has a profile, and use your credit card’s dispute process if you paid by card.

 

Depending on the situation, you might also consider small claims court. But you should only do this as a last resort and after exhausting other remedies. (Want to know more about the small claims court process? Check out our guide here).

Being a savvy consumer doesn’t mean avoiding every impulse buy, but it does mean knowing your rights and acting fast when something feels off. (iStock)

The Real Lesson: Don’t Let the Sales Hype Override Your Instincts

Sales pitches at fairs and markets are often energetic and persuasive for a reason: they’re literally designed to spark impulse buys. But when you’re shopping outside a traditional store, especially at temporary events, take a moment to breathe before you buy.

Here are a few quick consumer tips:

  • Ask about the refund policy before buying and get it in writing if possible.
  • Check the vendor’s contact information and verify it’s legit.
  • Use a credit card, which gives you more power to dispute charges than cash.

What Would You Do If a Vendor Refused Your Refund?

Have you ever regretted a purchase made outside a store setting? What happened, and how did you resolve it?

 

Being a savvy consumer doesn’t mean avoiding every impulse buy, but it does mean knowing your rights and acting fast when something feels off. Keep that three-day rule in mind next time you hit the fairgrounds. A little knowledge goes a long way toward keeping your wallet (and peace of mind) intact.