The ultimate guide to shopping Black Friday on a budget

Black Friday is one of the biggest shopping events of the year, and shoppers are increasingly embracing the chance to score big savings. However, the excitement of discounts can sometimes lead to overspending if you’re not prepared. With the rising cost of living, staying on budget is more important than ever! Here’s how you can shop smartly and maximise your savings this Black Friday…

Set a realistic budget

The first step to a successful Black Friday is setting a clear spending limit. Determine how much you can realistically afford to spend and stick to it. Focus on essential purchases, such as household items, school supplies, or early holiday gifts, to prioritise what you truly need. To stay disciplined, consider separating your wants from your needs before shopping. Using cash or a prepaid card can also help you avoid overspending on credit and keep your finances in check.

Plan your shopping strategy

Having a clear shopping strategy will save you time, money, and stress. Online shopping often starts before in-store sales, so it’s worth checking retailers like Takealot and Superbalist at midnight when their promotions go live. If you prefer shopping in person, prioritise stores with doorbuster deals and plan to arrive early to avoid missing out. Shopping during off-peak hours, such as early morning or late evening, can help you avoid long queues. Lastly, always have a backup plan in case a high-priority item sells out.

Leverage technology

Technology can make your Black Friday shopping experience smoother and more efficient. Many retailers have apps that offer exclusive discounts, early deal access, or loyalty rewards. Installing a browser extension like Payflex can help you find additional savings or allow you to spread payments over time. Platforms such as OneDayOnly and Loot also compile the best deals from multiple retailers, saving you hours of searching and comparing.

Avoid common Black Friday pitfalls

While the excitement of Black Friday can be contagious, it’s important to avoid common mistakes that could cost you money. Impulse buying is one of the biggest risks, so sticking to your wishlist is crucial. Always verify whether a discount is real by checking price histories and comparing deals across multiple stores. Don’t forget to review return and exchange policies, especially for electronics or other big-ticket items, to ensure you’re covered in case something goes wrong. Finally, make sure you’re buying quality products by reading reviews beforehand.

Support local and small businesses

Black Friday isn’t just about big-name retailers. Many small businesses in South Africa participate in the shopping frenzy, offering unique deals and excellent service. Shopping locally helps support the community while often giving you access to one-of-a-kind products. Online marketplaces such as Yaga or Loot frequently showcase small business promotions, making it easy to discover and support local entrepreneurs.

Post-Black Friday Tips

The savings don’t have to end when Black Friday is over. Cyber Monday is another excellent opportunity to find discounts, especially for tech and fashion items. If you’ve already made purchases, check if the retailer offers price adjustments – some stores, like Takealot, will refund the difference if an item you bought drops in price shortly after. Keep an eye out for restocks, as popular items are often replenished a few days after Black Friday.