Check Advertisements and Apps
Many retailers start distributing their advertisements for Black Friday a few weeks before the actual shopping day, giving you enough time to begin shopping for the best deals. By checking the advertisements early, you can plan your day and save time while taking advantage of early discounts. You can also download retailer apps to learn more about the available offers and discounts.
Research and Prepare Before Black Friday
While the advertisements hint at products you may want to buy, it is recommended that you research various brands and check user reviews and opinions about those brands. This way, you will avoid being misled about quality and will be able to identify your most desired and preferred items. You can also find out the regular prices of the products and compare them with the discounts offered on Black Friday.
Look for Early Bird Discounts
There is no need to wait until Black Friday to benefit from discounts, as many retailers offer early bird discounts. You might even be able to complete all your Black Friday-related purchases before Thanksgiving and avoid the crowds. Getting a head start may also give you a better chance of acquiring the items you want before they run out of stock.
Plan Your Favorite Shopping Location
By carefully planning your day, you can maximize your Black Friday experience whether you will be shopping online, in person, or both. If you are looking for the most sought-after items this season, prioritize their locations for purchase first, as they may sell out quickly. Some stores set specific hours for their deals, so you can plan your day according to the offers you wish to take advantage of.
Be Ready to Request Price Matching
Many retailers offer price matching, meaning they will lower the advertised price to match a competitor’s price. By knowing beforehand the price matching policy of the stores you plan to shop from, it won’t be a surprise if prices aren’t matched at some stores. As part of your price matching request, you will usually need to provide proof that you can get a lower price on the same item, such as a printed ad or a screenshot of the competitor’s offer. The products must be identical to receive the lower price, including size, model, and even color.
Request Gift Receipts
Gift receipts make it easier for the person receiving the gift to return or exchange the item. They typically include a description of the purchase without mentioning the price. You can request gift receipts for online and in-store purchases, allowing your loved ones to easily make a return or exchange. Some retailers, including Amazon, even place gift receipts online or through their app after the purchase.
Be cautious when paying with a credit card on Black Friday
Using a credit card can offer you benefits such as reward points, extended warranties, or purchase protection. But be careful not to overspend on credit. It may take longer to pay off high balances, meaning you will pay more in credit interest. Set a budget and make your shopping list in advance, then keep track of your balance while shopping. Some credit card companies provide apps that help you easily track your spending while shopping. You’ll be able to review your balance and available credit in real-time.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Why is it called “Black Friday”? – Police in Philadelphia started using the term “Black Friday” to refer to the chaos that could arise from tourists coming to the city for midweek shopping. Then, in the 1980s, retailers adopted the term to describe “Black Friday” as the annual profit point where stores move from the red to the black.
When
When do Black Friday ads start to appear? – Some retailers begin sharing Black Friday ads in late October. Expect to see ads released periodically throughout November, with some promotional discounts starting in the weeks leading up to Black Friday.
Source: https://www.thebalancemoney.com/getting-black-friday-deals-951870
Leave a Reply