9 expert-approved Black Friday shopping hacks for the best deals

Black Friday shopping tips

As Black Friday approaches, insiders from the e-commerce platform DIPNDIVE warn that only well planned strategies can secure the best savings.

Retailers often employ high-pressure tactics like countdown clocks, fluctuating prices, and surprise deals designed to create urgency, which can lead to impulse buys and overspending.

However, by following expert advice – such as setting price alerts, contacting brands directly for exclusive discounts via Live Chat, and comparing prices using tracking tools – shoppers can avoid the most common pitfalls and make confident, intentional purchases.

The following hacks are based on expert analysis and consumer behavior studies from top sources.

Hack 1: Set price alerts weeks in advance

Price tracking tools like CamelCamelCamel or Honey can help you monitor price fluctuations in the weeks leading up to Black Friday. This ensures that you’re truly getting a deal rather than a marketing ploy.

“Many people assume prices are lowest on Black Friday, but early tracking often reveals that prices drop at random times,” said the spokesperson from DIPNDIVE.

Hack 2: Follow brands on social media for exclusive discounts

Retailers often release flash sales or exclusive discount codes via their social media channels. Following your favourite brands on platforms like Instagram or Twitter can give you early access to limited-time deals, allowing you to act before items sell out.

Hack 3: Abandon your online cart for potential discounts

It might sound unusual, but leaving items in your shopping cart could result in an additional discount. Retailers often send follow-up emails offering a percentage off to encourage you to complete your purchase.

Hack 4: Look for local store deals

Smaller, local businesses may offer deeper discounts compared to big-box stores, especially on items like apparel or electronics. Many of these businesses offer incentives like free in-store pickups or additional gifts with purchase, which aren’t advertised as aggressively.

Hack 5: Take advantage of pre-Black Friday sales

Retailers have started offering “Pre-Black Friday” sales, giving early access to steep discounts ahead of the actual event. Sign up for newsletters and store loyalty programs to be notified about these early sales.

Hack 6: Sign up for SMS alerts

Retailers often send exclusive deals and additional discounts via text messages. By signing up for SMS alerts, you can be notified of flash sales or limited-time offers that aren’t widely advertised.

Hack 7: Clear your browser cache or use incognito mode

Online retailers use your browsing history to adjust prices. By shopping in incognito mode or clearing your cache, you ensure that you’re getting the most competitive prices.

Hack 8: Opt for alternative payment methods

During Black Friday, some retailers offer extra discounts when using certain payment methods like PayPal, store credit cards, or digital wallets. Always look for payment-specific offers before checking out.

Hack 9: Ask for deals via Live Chat

One unique insider tip is to ask brands directly for special deals through Live Chat on their websites. Many e-commerce stores have exclusive discount codes that aren’t public and are reserved for loyal customers or those showing interest. By engaging with Live Chat, you can request personal discounts or special offers that others might not access, giving you an edge in securing exclusive deals this Black Friday.