Black Friday is known for its tempting deals and massive sales, but it can also lead to impulse buys and overspending. To get the best Black Friday deals and maximize your savings, it’s essential to have a game plan. Here are some smart shopping strategies to help you save money and make the most of this year’s Black Friday sales.

Make a Budget and Stick to It

Before Black Friday shopping begins, set a clear budget. Decide on the total amount you’re willing to spend and allocate specific amounts for each item on your list. Sticking to your budget is one of the best ways to avoid overspending on Black Friday. Remember: even the best deals aren’t worth blowing your financial plan.

Make a Black Friday Shopping List

Impulse buying is a major culprit behind overspending during Black Friday. To stay focused, make a detailed shopping list of what you truly need or have been planning to buy. This will help you avoid getting lured by flashy sales and help you stick to buying the essentials.

Research the Best Black Friday Deals in Advance

Not all Black Friday deals are created equal. Some retailers inflate prices before the sales event to make discounts look more appealing. Use price comparison websites, such as Price.com and price tracking tools to research the cost history of items you want. This way, you’ll know if you’re getting a genuine bargain. Also, read reviews to ensure the quality of the products.

Compare Prices Across Multiple Retailers

One of the most effective Black Friday shopping tips is to compare prices at different stores. Some retailers have price-matching policies, so it’s worth checking to see if you can get the best price available. Don’t forget to look at both online and in-store deals, as some stores may have exclusive offers that are only available in one place.

Sign Up for Store Newsletters and Alerts

Many retailers offer early access to Black Friday sales and exclusive discounts to their subscribers. Sign up for newsletters from your favourite stores to get notified about these deals. Setting up price alerts for specific items can also help you grab the best discounts before they’re gone.

Use Cashback and Reward Programs

Make the most of Black Friday by taking advantage of cashback websites and credit card reward programs. Many credit cards offer extra cashback or reward points for purchases made during the holiday shopping season. These programs can significantly increase your savings, making your Black Friday shopping even more rewarding.

Plan Your Shopping Schedule Wisely

If you’re planning to shop in-store, having a well-thought-out schedule can help you avoid long lines and big crowds. Look at Black Friday ads released in advance to plan your route and prioritize the most important items. If you’re shopping online, be ready when sales go live, as the best Black Friday deals often sell out quickly.

Be Cautious of Doorbuster Deals

Doorbuster deals are designed to draw people into stores but often come with strict limitations, like very low stock, or no medium size left, only XXXL. These deals can be enticing, but don’t be disappointed if you miss out. Instead, focus on deals that are widely available and align with your shopping list to ensure you’re truly saving money.

Use Incognito Mode for Online Shopping

Did you know that retailers sometimes use your browsing history to change prices or show different deals? Shopping in incognito mode or clearing your cookies can help you find unbiased prices. If you use Google, you can find incognito mode by clicking the 3 small dots at the top right of the search bar. It’s a small but smart Black Friday hack that could save you money.

Don’t Overlook Cyber Monday

If you don’t find everything you want on Black Friday, remember that Cyber Monday is right around the corner. Many retailers save special discounts for this online shopping event, particularly on tech items. Keep some of your budget reserved for Cyber Monday deals, which can sometimes be even better.

Related:The Black Friday Phenomenon: A Brief History

Check Return Policies Carefully

Before making a purchase, especially on big-ticket items, review the return policy. Some stores have stricter return terms for Black Friday deals or may charge restocking fees. Knowing the return policies will help you make informed buying decisions and avoid any unpleasant surprises. Things like underwear, personalised items ( your name here), and perishable goods like food and coffee usually can't be returned. I recently bought some di-caf Nespresso capsules by mistake, and they could not be returned even though they were untouched in their box - food for thought.

The Verdict - Shop Smart and Save Big on Black Friday

Black Friday can be a fantastic opportunity to get significant discounts, but only if you shop smart. By using these Black Friday shopping strategies—such as setting a budget, researching deals, and planning ahead—you can maximize your savings and avoid the pitfalls of overspending. With a well-executed plan, you’ll be ready to score the best Black Friday deals and shop with confidence.

Happy shopping, and may your Black Friday be filled with great finds and savings!