Black Friday 2024 is nearly here, falling on Friday, November 29. For many, it’s an opportunity to snag great deals, but it’s also a day retailers use to whip shoppers into a buying frenzy. If you’re not careful, you could end up overspending or buying things you don’t need.

To help you shop smart this Black Friday, here are 14 practical tips for finding real bargains, verifying discounts, and avoiding common pitfalls.

1. Make a List and Stick to It

Before Black Friday, write down the items you genuinely need or want. This helps you avoid impulse purchases triggered by flashy “deals.”

Example: If you’ve been eyeing a food processor, research specific models and prices now, so you know what to look for on the big day.

2. Set a Budget

Know how much you can afford to spend. Even small purchases add up quickly during sales. Only buy what fits within your budget.

Tip: Review your recent spending habits and set a realistic limit for your Black Friday splurge.

3. Check Current Prices

Use price comparison tools like Shopzilla or Google Shopping to check prices at multiple retailers. This will help you identify real discounts versus deceptive ones.

4. Track Price History

Many “discounts” are based on artificially inflated prices. Use tools like CamelCamelCamel (for Amazon) or Anytracker to see an item’s price history and spot genuine deals.

Pro Tip: Install Camelizer, a free browser extension, for instant price history on Amazon product pages.

5. Set Price Alerts

Apps like PriceRunner let you set alerts for when an item hits your desired price. This ensures you don’t miss out on genuine bargains.

6. Don’t Jump Too Early

Retailers may advertise “Black Friday deals” weeks in advance, but better discounts often appear closer to the date. Hold off on non-urgent purchases until November 25, the Monday before Black Friday.

7. Register with Retailers

Create accounts with your favourite retailers ahead of time. This saves time on the day, especially when deals sell out fast, and you may receive discount codes through welcome emails.

8. Follow Brands on Social Media

Retailers often announce exclusive discounts or early-bird offers via Instagram, TikTok, or other platforms. Follow the brands on your wishlist to stay updated.

9. Sign Up for Memberships

Some retailers reserve their best Black Friday deals for members. Programs like Amazon Prime offer invite-only discounts on branded items like Fire TVs or Ring doorbells.

10. Prepare for Price Fluctuations

Prices can change rapidly on Black Friday due to dynamic pricing systems that adjust costs based on demand. Be prepared for sudden shifts, but don’t panic.

11. Avoid Panic Buying

Retailers thrive on creating a sense of urgency. If you feel overwhelmed by FOMO (fear of missing out), take a breather before making any decisions.

12. Watch for Marketing Tricks

Retailers often send enticing emails with “exclusive” offers. Please set up an email filter to funnel these into a folder so you can review them when you’re in a rational frame of mind.

13. Look Beyond the Price

Always double-check product details:

• Warranty information
• Compatibility (e.g., for electronics)
• Dimensions (a cheap sofa might be too small)
• Return policies

Tip: Many retailers offer extended holiday returns, but confirm the specifics before you buy.

14. Plan for Cyber Monday

If you miss a deal on Black Friday, don’t worry—many retailers extend sales through Cyber Monday (December 2), and some of the best deals reappear.

Black Friday 2024: Key Dates to Remember

• November 25: The start of peak Black Friday week.
• November 29: Black Friday.
• December 2: Cyber Monday.

Final Thoughts

Black Friday can be a great opportunity to save money—but only if you shop strategically. Stick to a list, research prices, and remember that the best deal is the one that fits your needs and budget.

Happy shopping!

ACCOMPLISH MAGAZINE