How to Get the Best Deals on Black Friday and Cyber Monday

Okay, let’s be honest – Black Friday and Cyber Monday are epic. The promise of massive savings is enough to make anyone spend a little (or a lot!) But with all the hype and frantic shopping, it’s easy to get swept away and end up overspending or missing out on the real deals. Don't worry, we've got you covered. This guide will give you a smart approach to navigating the chaos and maximizing your savings.

1. Start Your Research Now

Seriously, don’t wait until Friday morning to start looking. Many retailers release their Black Friday deals weeks in advance. Start browsing now, create a wish list of the items you actually want, and note the original prices. This will help you quickly identify a good deal when it pops up. Websites like DealNews, BlackFriday.com, and TechRadar's Black Friday deals page are great resources to monitor.

2. Know Your Priorities & Set a Budget

It’s tempting to buy everything you see, but that's a recipe for regret. Before Black Friday even arrives, decide what’s most important to you. Are you after a new TV? Do you desperately need a new pair of headphones? Having a clear list will prevent impulse buys and help you stay focused. And most importantly, set a budget and stick to it.

3. Understand the Timing

Black Friday: Traditionally the biggest day, Black Friday deals often start on Thanksgiving Day (November 26th, 2021) and continue through the weekend. Many stores offer doorbuster deals that disappear quickly.
Cyber Monday: This day, falling on Monday after Thanksgiving, is focused on online deals. It’s often bigger for electronics and tech.

4. Compare Prices – Don't Assume it’s a "Deal"

Just because a product is on sale doesn’t mean it's actually a good deal. Use price comparison tools like Google Shopping, CamelCamelCamel (for Amazon pricing history), and PriceRunner to verify that the sale price is the lowest it's ever been. Don’t get caught up in the “limited time only” urgency – that’s often just marketing hype.

5. Sign Up for Email Lists & Loyalty Programs

Retailers often send exclusive Black Friday deals to their email subscribers. Join the email lists of your favorite stores. Also, make sure you're part of any loyalty programs – you might get early access to sales or bonus discounts.

6. Consider Alternatives to Brick-and-Mortar

While in-store deals can be tempting, many retailers offer comparable or better deals online. Plus, you can shop in your pajamas! Don’t be afraid to shop directly from the manufacturer’s website too - sometimes they offer unique deals.

7. Be Aware of Shipping & Returns

Factor in shipping costs and return policies when evaluating a deal. Some retailers offer free shipping on orders over a certain amount. Read the return policy carefully to avoid headaches later.

8. Don’t Get FOMO (Fear of Missing Out)

The constant barrage of “limited-time offers” is designed to create FOMO. Take a deep breath and remember that if you don’t buy it on Black Friday, it will likely be available later – possibly at the same price.

Black Friday and Cyber Monday can be exciting, but with a little planning, you can maximize your savings and avoid the stress. Happy shopping!