Black Friday is one of the best opportunities to score major deals, but with so many sales and discounts, it can be overwhelming. To help you make the most of this shopping event, we've put together 11 tips that will ensure you get the best bang for your buck. From planning ahead and researching prices to taking advantage of cashback apps and loyalty programs, these strategies will guide you through the chaos. Whether you're shopping online or in-store, early or late, these smart tips will help you navigate Black Friday with confidence, ensuring you find the best deals and avoid unnecessary spending. Let the savings begin!
1. Plan ahead
Before Black Friday, make a list of the items you want to buy and prioritize them to avoid impulsive purchases. Setting a budget in advance will help you stay focused and prevent overspending amid the excitement of the sales. Plus, time is of the essence, so planning ahead helps you get through your list efficiently.
2. Research prices
Many stores start offering early Black Friday deals, some even an entire week prior, so it’s smart to track prices in advance to ensure you're getting the best discounts. Utilize price comparison tools like Google Shopping, Honey, or PriceGrabber to compare prices across different retailers and make sure you’re getting the best value.
3. Sign up for alerts and newsletters
Subscribing to retailer emails is a great way to receive exclusive offers, early access, and special promotions ahead of Black Friday. Additionally, downloading store apps and enabling push notifications can alert you to flash deals and limited-time offers. Popular apps like Amazon, Target, Walmart, Best Buy, and Macy’s can help you access these special promotions and stay ahead of the competition.
4. Sign up for store loyalty programs and memberships
Many retailers offer exclusive discounts to loyalty program members, providing early access to Black Friday deals or additional savings during the event. Loyalty points earned from these programs can often be redeemed for further discounts, making it a great opportunity to save even more. Notable retailers offering such programs include Walmart, TJ Maxx, H&M, Old Navy, and many others.
5. Use cashback websites and apps
Take advantage of cashback apps like Rakuten or TopCashback to earn rebates on your purchases during Black Friday sales. Additionally, many credit cards offer exclusive cashback or extra rewards for shopping during this time, helping you maximize your savings even further. Be sure to check your card's benefits to make the most of these offers.
6. Use coupons and promo codes
To maximize your savings, start by searching for valid promo codes online, which can provide additional discounts on your purchases. Many retailers even allow you to stack these promo codes with other ongoing sales, offering you even greater savings on top of already discounted prices.
7. Shop early (and late)
Some of the best Black Friday deals begin even before the official event, with early bird offers starting as early as Monday or Tuesday. For those who like to shop late, retailers often release fresh discounts throughout the day and into the evening on Black Friday itself, giving you more opportunities to snag a great deal.
8. Check online and in-store
Many Black Friday sales are available both online and in-store, so it's important to compare which option offers the best deal for each item. Shopping online not only helps you avoid long lines and the crowds of in-store shopping but also allows you to shop at your own pace without the added stress.
9. Focus on big-ticket Items
Electronics and appliances, such as TVs, laptops, and kitchen gadgets, often feature some of the biggest discounts during Black Friday. If you're willing to wait, some retailers may offer even larger discounts on these high-demand items later in the day, as prices drop further.
10. Look for bundle deals
Retailers often offer "buy more, save more" deals by bundling related products, such as a phone with accessories, at a discounted price. These bundled offers are perfect for those shopping for gifts, allowing you to save while purchasing thoughtful gift sets for friends and family.
11. Follow social media accounts
To stay ahead of the game during Black Friday, follow your favorite retailers on social media, as they often announce flash deals and special promotions. Additionally, many influencers and bloggers share exclusive offers and promo codes, helping you score even bigger discounts on your holiday shopping.