Black Friday is a shopping period people look forward to. Deals and discounts drive us all a little crazy during this time of the year. It is easy to get lost when there are so many deals flashing before your eyes. This is the reason you need some reliable Black Friday shopping tips. 

Though Black Friday presents a unique challenge, you may be thinking, “I know how to shop.” Saving money isn’t the only thing to consider. It’s all about seizing the right deals and avoiding being duped by extravagant “sales” that don’t actually result in cost savings.  

Early Bird Specials

Stores release these deals first thing in the morning, sometimes even before midnight. If you’re wondering, “Why should I lose sleep over this,” the explanation is that these offers are usually the best you could get for that day. We’re talking about steep discounts on popular items like electronics, appliances, and more. 

How do you now turn these early deals into profitable shopping for yourself? Know what you’re after first. A few days before Black Friday, review ads and online sneak peeks and jot down your list of needs.

Secondly, timing is crucial. If a store offers doorbuster deals and opens at 6 AM, arrive by 5:30 AM. Yes, it’s early, but you have a better chance of getting what you want if you get there before the crowd. And here’s a tip: if you’re shopping online, set an alarm. The best of these deals tend to sell out quickly and you don’t want to miss out. 

Social Media and Newsletter Subscriptions

It takes more than just rushing to the stores or checking websites on Black Friday. Using social media and signing up for newsletters is a clever tip. Some stores reserve their best deals for their fans and subscribers. 

Start by considering the brands and stores that you most enjoy. Click “Follow” on their Twitter, Instagram, or Facebook pages. These platforms are where brands often share flash sales or additional discounts that are not available anywhere else. They may even provide exclusive codes or coupons that will save you even more. 

After that, subscribe to newsletters. While it may seem outdated, it can work too. Shops sometimes send out their Black Friday deals days in advance to their email lists. This helps you organize your shopping in advance. 

Creating a Targeted Shopping List

When shopping on Black Friday, you need to have a list. It saves time, helps you stay focused, and—above all—it saves money.

Start by putting all your needs in writing. If it’s a television, what brand and model is it? If it’s clothing, what kind, size, and color? This precision assists in deal comparison and decision-making. 

Next, sort your list by priority. What can you live without, and what can you put off if money is tight? This lessens the likelihood of overspending and buyer remorse. There are so many deals on Black Friday that it can be overwhelming. Your list serves as an anchor to help you stay focused and grounded on your main goals. 

Online Shopping vs. In-Store

Shopping in-store is all about the experience. It’s interactive, and you receive your products immediately. Products can be seen, touched, and tested. Furthermore, some in-store exclusive offers might make the trip worthwhile. But it also involves dealing with throngs of people, long lineups, and the early morning rush. 

On the other hand, shopping online is more convenient. You can shop from anywhere and stay away from the bustle of busy retail spaces. You can find deals that are available only online and price comparison is made easier. 

How do you make your decision? Think about what you’re buying. Online shopping is your best option if you’re looking to compare specs or prices on electronics, gadgets, or other items. However, shopping in-store may be the best option if you need to feel or try on any items, such as clothing or shoes. 

Post-Black Friday: Managing Debt

Black Friday is over and the dust has settled. But what if you spent a little more than you intended? Deal excitement can easily lead to overindulgence. It’s time to discuss debt management and post-Black Friday financial recovery now. 

Evaluate your expenses first. Check your credit card statements and receipts. If you discover that you have overspent, make plans for how to pay off this additional debt. The key is to not let it linger and build up interest. 

Make changes to your upcoming budget as well. To make up for the additional expenses, look for places where you can make some small savings.

If you already have multiple debts and are worried about how to handle them without stress, Speak with one of our debt experts at EmpireOne Credit. Your debt can be reduced by up to 80%, and interest will stop immediately. Call us at (416) 900-2324 to schedule a free consultation with us. Being debt-free feels good!