The Beauty Scroll: Big Beauty Hauls, Small Price Tags

There’s nothing like the thrill of a new beauty haul—Ulta bags spilling over, a Sephora haul lineup on your vanity, and the satisfying rustle of fresh packaging.

But you don’t have to spend hundreds to enjoy the fun. I’ve mastered the art of getting new products for less, and I’m sharing my favorite ways to score big without blowing your budget.

1. Time Your Purchases Around Sales

You don’t need to rush every time a product launches. Keep a running wish list of what catches your eye, then wait for big sales—Ulta haul days like 21 Days of Beauty, Sephora haul events like the “Sephora Savings Events”, Black Friday, Christmas haul markdowns, back-to-school haul promotions, or brand-specific sales.

Most hype products lose their “must-have now” status in 4–8 weeks, so holding off can mean big discounts later. Plus, you can stack savings if the sale overlaps with other promotions or rewards offers.

Check out the Sephora + Ulta Haul Unboxing Here!

2. Make Rewards Programs Work for You

I never underestimate the power of points. Ulta’s Rewards program is my all-time favorite—especially at Platinum or Diamond status. Extra sales access, early product drops, exclusive gifts with purchase, and faster point accumulation mean bigger hauls for less.

One of my largest makeup hauls this year cost me just $3.21 out of pocket by stacking points with Platinum Day discounts and free gift-with-purchase offers. I save my points for moments like this and wait for point multiplier events (5× or even 10× points) to maximize every purchase.

Check out my mega haul video here!

3. Drugstore Gems & Subscription-Free Boxes

Some of my favorite low-cost finds come from seasonal beauty boxes—no monthly subscription required.

• Meijer Beauty Box – quarterly, under $10, includes a mix of makeup, skincare, body care, and haircare.

• Walmart Beauty Box – also quarterly, also under $10, great for discovering new drugstore launches.

These are perfect “haul fixes” for beauty lovers who want variety without a high price tag. They’re also great gift ideas for a birthday haul or seasonal refresh.

Check out my Meijer Beauty Box Unboxing here!

4. Event-Exclusive Boxes

Special events often bring limited-edition beauty bundles you can’t get year-round.

• Sephoria Box – my personal favorite, offered annually alongside their in person Sephoria: House of Beauty event. Even if you don’t attend the event, you can usually buy the box online. It’s packed with high-value products (many full-size), and I’ve discovered some of my all-time faves from it—perfect for a once-a-year shopping haul moment.

• Ipsy/BoxyCharm Event Boxes – in the past, beauty events like Generation Beauty (By Ipsy) have offered special-edition boxes tied to their conventions, with a curated mix of products for a fraction of their retail value.

These boxes feel extra special, and because they’re tied to events, they often have standout products or exclusive packaging.

5. Beauty Retailer Kits & Curated Collabs

When I want variety without commitment, I go for pre-assembled kits:

• Sephora Favorites – themed sets for makeup, skincare, or fragrance, usually $20–$60, with travel or deluxe minis.

• Ulta Kits – great for seasonal trends or new product sampling.

• Macy’s & Target Mini Sets – budget-friendly and fun to gift, especially for a Target haul video or post.

• Trendmood Boxes – curated with full-size products, often in collaboration with a specific brand (like an Olaplex-themed box), sometimes featuring early-access launches.

These kits give you the excitement of a pr haul—multiple new items at once—without the price tag of a giant single-brand splurge.

6. Go Global with K-Beauty Boxes

K-beauty retailers like YesStyle and StyleKorean curate boxes loaded with viral skincare products for $30–$40. Each one I’ve purchased has included nearly a full routine—from cleansers to serums to SPF. The value is incredible, and the products are often top trends in skincare.

The next time the haul urge hits, skip the impulse buys and try one of these strategies instead. You’ll still enjoy the excitement of new discoveries—whether it’s a Sephora haul, an Ulta haul, or even a seasonal back-to-school haul—without the budget regret.

Because beauty should feel indulgent, not expensive!