Upsells That Don’t Feel Scammy: A Simple Framework

Upsells get a bad reputation because most are done badly. Done right, they feel like helpful recommendations and lift average order value without annoying anyone.

The framework

Relevance first, timing second, discount last.

• Only offer what genuinely complements the cart
• Trigger post-purchase, not mid-checkout
• Frame it as completing the job, not spending more

That’s it. No dark patterns, just better shopping.