10 top tips and tricks to remember for Black Friday

Black Friday is one of the biggest shopping events of the year, offering steep discounts and incredible deals. It can be a little overwhelming, however, especially if you don’t have a game plan. Not to worry – here are 10 tips and tricks will help you snag the best deals and make your Black Friday experience stress-free…

1. Set a budget

Before diving into the shopping frenzy, set a clear budget. Decide how much you’re willing to spend overall and allocate amounts to specific items. This helps prevent overspending and buyer’s remorse later. Black Friday deals can be tempting, but sticking to your financial plan ensures you only buy what you truly need.

2. Create a shopping list

Start by writing down the items you need or have been waiting to buy. Prioritize them based on importance or how badly you want them. This will help you stay focused and avoid falling into the trap of impulse purchases. It’s easy to get sidetracked by flashy deals, but a list keeps you on track.

3. Research deals early

Preparation is key for Black Friday. Many retailers release their deals ahead of time, either through online ads, emails, or flyers. Take advantage of these previews to identify the best offers. Knowing which stores are offering the biggest discounts can help you plan your shopping route or decide which online retailers to prioritize.

4. Compare prices

A deal isn’t always what it seems. Use price comparison tools like Google Shopping to check if you’re really getting a bargain. Some stores hike prices just before Black Friday to make discounts appear more significant than they actually are. Doing a little homework ensures you get true value.

5. Sign up for newsletters

Retailers often reward loyal customers with early access to deals, special coupon codes, or exclusive discounts. Signing up for newsletters from your favourite stores before Black Friday gives you a head start. Look out for promo codes that can be stacked on top of sale prices.

6. Shop online

Gone are the days when you had to camp outside stores to get the best deals. Most Black Friday sales are now available online, and many stores even offer online-only discounts. Shopping from the comfort of your home not only saves you time but also spares you from the chaotic crowds. Keep an eye out for free shipping promotions or buy-online-pick-up-in-store options.

7. Use store apps

Retailers’ apps often come with exclusive perks, including app-only discounts, flash sales, and real-time deal alerts. Download apps from stores you plan to shop at and use them to streamline your shopping. Some apps also allow you to scan barcodes in-store to check if a better price is available online.

8. Pay attention to time-limited deals

Many Black Friday deals are time-sensitive, with flash sales and hourly discounts becoming more common. Set reminders for specific times or keep an eye on retailer websites to ensure you don’t miss out. Being vigilant can help you snag incredible deals before they sell out.

9. Check return policies

Before purchasing, take a moment to review the store’s return and exchange policies. This is especially important for electronics, large appliances, and other big-ticket items. Some stores impose stricter rules for Black Friday purchases, so knowing your options in advance can save you from a headache later.

10. Don’t forget Cyber Monday

If you miss out on Black Friday or feel like you need more time to decide, Cyber Monday is just around the corner. Many retailers extend their deals through the weekend and offer additional discounts on Monday, particularly for tech gadgets, clothing, and online-exclusive items.