Black Friday, the annual shopping frenzy that heralds the start of the festive season, is renowned for its exceptional offers and bargains. To make the most of it, it's essential to be prepared and strategic. In this article, we'll provide you with valuable tips to help you navigate black friday shopping and save your money.
What is Black Friday and when is it this year?
This year Black Friday will take place on the 29th of November. The term was coined in the 1950s, and refers to the day after Thanksgiving in the United States. It marks the beginning of the Christmas shopping season and is characterised by retailers offering substantial discounts on a wide range of products. Historically, retailers would see an increase in sales and profits on this day due to post-Thanksgiving shopping deals and discounts. The "black ink" refers to the profits that would appear in black ink on the retailers financial statements, contrasting with red ink, which indicates losses. Therefore, "Black Friday" signifies a day of increased sales and profits for retailers.
Black Friday Deals and Discounts
Black Friday deals and discounts interest a lot of shoppers, with retailers often offering generous discounts on popular items such as electronics, appliances and toys. Some common types of deals include:
- Special Offers: These are limited-time offers with extremely low prices on a small quantity of items.
- Buy one, get one free, or at a discounted price.
- Discounts: Applied to the entire purchase or specific categories.
- Bundle deals: Multiple items sold together at a discounted price.
Popular categories for Black Friday deals typically include:
- Appliances
- Beauty
- Electronics
- Furniture
Preparing for Black Friday: Top Tips
To ensure a successful Black Friday shopping experience, it's crucial to prepare in advance. Here are some essential tips:
Look Out for Pre-Black Friday Deals
Savvy shoppers know the best deals often start appearing weeks in advance. Keep a close eye on our site for pre-Black Friday sales. Unlock exclusive deals and don't miss out on the opportunity to score fantastic prices before the official Black Friday frenzy begins.
Create a Shopping List
Before adding items to your online basket, make a list of items you need or want to purchase. Prioritise items based on necessity and the deals you anticipate.
Set a Budget
Determine how much you can afford to spend on Black Friday shopping. Setting a budget will help you avoid overspending and help you make an informed decision.
Sign Up for Newsletters and Alerts
Subscribe to newsletters and alerts from your favourite retailers to stay informed about upcoming Black Friday deals, promotions, and early access opportunities.
Additional Black Friday Tips
Shop Safely
- Be cautious of online scams: Avoid clicking on suspicious links or entering personal information on unfamiliar websites.
- Verify the authenticity of deals: Be wary of offers that seem too good to be true.
- Use secure payment methods: Opt for payment methods that offer encryption and protection for your financial information.
Be Patient and Flexible
- Create an account in advance: Many retailers offer exclusive deals to registered members.
- Set up price alerts: Use browser extensions or price tracking apps to get notified when the items you want go on sale.
- Check your wishlist: If you've been eyeing something for a while, see if it's included in the Black Friday deals.
- Compare prices: Don't just settle for the first deal you see. Compare prices across different retailers to ensure you're getting the best value.
- Be prepared for shipping delays: Due to the high volume of orders during Black Friday, shipping times may be longer than usual.
- Read the fine print: Pay attention to return policies, shipping costs, and any additional fees.
- Use a secure network: When shopping online, make sure you're using a secure network to protect your personal information.
Online vs. In-Store Shopping
The choice between online and in-store shopping depends on your preferences and the specific items you're looking for.
Tips for online shopping
- Use price comparison tools: Compare prices across different retailers to find the best bargains.
- Check return policies: Familiarise yourself with the return policies of online retailers to avoid any surprises.
- Be aware of shipping costs: Factor in shipping costs when comparing prices.
- Take advantage of exclusive online deals: Many retailers offer exclusive deals online, such as early access to sales or special discounts.
- Utilise online reviews: Read reviews from other customers to get a better idea of the product's quality and performance.
Tips for in-store shopping
- Arrive early: Many stores open early on Black Friday, so arriving early can give you a better chance of securing the best deals.
- Know the store layout: Familiarise yourself with the store layout to navigate efficiently and avoid long lines.
