Black Friday deals are already starting to pop up, and stores are gearing up to make your shopping experience as smooth as possible. It’s no secret that Black Friday is a big deal for many people, and the idea of missing out can be really stressful. Planning to dive into the frenzy? Here are six simple tips to help you score the best deals this Black Friday.
1. PLAN YOUR SHOPPING ROUTE
Expect traffic and parking issues all day, so having a good plan is key. Choose a shopping center with several big stores close together to save time and reduce stress. Get there early to grab a parking spot, check out nearby stores, and then head back to your car to unload your purchases when needed.
2. BRING ADS FOR PRICE MATCHING
Stores like Walmart and Target often do price matching. If they have the same item as Best Buy or Staples, you can save time by not visiting multiple stores. Check the store’s price matching rules ahead of time since many won’t match limited quantity items. You can use apps like the Black Friday app from FatWallet to track other stores’ ads on the go.
3. DON’T FORGET ONLINE SHOPPING
You might find great Black Friday deals right from your home. Many stores update their websites on Thursday night or Friday morning with in-store deals, although not all doorbusters will be available online. Platforms like Ebates offer cash back bonuses for online shopping, and always look for online coupons. No long lines to worry about!
4. SHOP WITH A TEAM
Black Friday is better with company. Work with friends or family to analyze deals and split up tasks. This way, you can cover more ground and snag more doorbusters. Taking turns standing in line can also save time and energy for everyone involved.
5. BUY GIFT CARDS AHEAD OF TIME
Getting gift cards or merchandise credit at a discount from sites like eBay or Giftcardgranny.com can add to your savings. Knowing where you plan to shop helps, as you can get an extra 10-25% off this way.
6. USE A CREDIT CARD
While cash is great, using a credit card on Black Friday offers better security against loss or fraud. Many credit cards also provide free extended warranties and purchase protection, which can lead to extra savings. Just make sure to use credit responsibly and avoid racking up debt.
If you love the excitement of Black Friday, these tips can help you get the best deals. How are you planning to shop this year, in-store or online?