A Stress-Free Black Friday

If there ever was a season discount that requires a guide to survive it is Black Friday! Here's a survival guide to help you maximize discounts and have a stress-free Black Friday.

Published on 2023-11-06

Have you ever wanted to go shopping and take advantage of those sweet Black Friday deals, only to then feel overwhelmed by the crowd and craze around you? Even when you do get past the craze and manage to do some shopping, how many times have you ended up disappointed by your purchases?

Planning your wish list ahead of time --- and becoming mentally ready to wait for what you want and need --- will certainly help you manage stress and save money. Take a look at these strategies that can ease the Black Friday fever and help you stay on budget.

1. Research Deals in Advance

Retailers often release their Black Friday sales ads –also known as Black Friday flyers or sneak peeks– in the weeks leading up to the event. This gives you a unique opportunity to get a sneak peek at the deals before the actual Black Friday. These previews are usually available in physical stores and on the store's websites.

By reviewing these ads in advance, you will also be able to identify the offers and discounts that align with your shopping needs and budget.

While researching deals, you'll also be able to compare prices between stores. Just because a product is on sale doesn't mean it's the best deal available. Understand what your budget and priorities are.

2. Make a list of items you need to restock

To avoid paying full price, you need to be able to wait to buy items until you can get them for less. Make a list of the items you want to purchase but can wait until November. Make room for those new items you’ll purchase. If you plan to buy in bulk, make sure you go through your stock. Black Friday can help you save on items that are essential to your budget and not only extras.

3. Credit Card Offers

Check credit card offers are promotions and deals provided by credit card companies to incentivize their cardholders to make purchases with specific merchants on Black Friday. To maximize your reward potential, review available offers, especially before making a significant purchase. Look for offers that align with your shopping needs and preferences. If you have multiple credit cards, check offers across all of them to find the best deals.

By actively monitoring and leveraging credit card offers, you can significantly enhance your cashback and rewards potential, saving money on Black Friday and throughout the year. This strategy allows you to make the most of your credit card benefits and maximize your savings.

4. Go digital

Businesses know that the future is digital. That is why you can find great special online deals. What is great about this is that you can skip the chaos, and you can also avoid buying things on a whim. Online purchases allow you to plan and keep control over expenses.

5. Think ahead - think Christmas

Get an early start and buy Christmas at a discount. Black Friday can help you distribute the expenses for the holiday season. You will have to buy groceries and Christmas decorations as well as last minute gifts in December. Take advantage of late November discounts and give yourself more time to pay for the holidays.

By following these tips, you can maximize discounts and reduce stress on Black Friday, ensuring a successful and enjoyable shopping experience.

Looking to learn more smart ways to save money? Read all about it here. Or better yet