Black Friday Shopping Tips: Here's How to Make the Most of Your Time and Money This Year

you should be making a plan and checking out sales before you buy so you don't spend more money than you want to spend

Black Friday is now just about two weeks away, it falls on November 29, 2024, the day after Thanksgiving (which is on November 28). With only a short time left, this is the moment to finalize your plan, research and compare deals, and lock in your must-have items before the rush. Retailers have already rolled out major early-bird discounts, and many shoppers are acting fast to secure top products before they sell out. Preparation now can save you time, stress, and money when the big day arrives.

Experts expect U.S. retail spending over the Thanksgiving holiday weekend to rise by around 5 percent, reaching roughly $75 billion, so demand will be high and supplies will move quickly. Many deals are already live, and shoppers report that more than half have started their holiday buying before mid-November. Waiting until the last minute this year could mean missing out. 1{index=1}

Plan ahead

Don’t wing it on Black Friday. Two weeks before, map out the stores or websites you plan to hit, and create a priority list of what you want. Focus on need and value, avoid impulse grabs just because something seems cheap.

Visit stores before the big day

If you are shopping in person, do a walkthrough of the store layout now. Black Friday traffic can be chaotic, and items may be relocated into promotional displays. Speaking with staff ahead of time about where key items will be can save you valuable time on the day.

Bookmark items and prepare online

Set up accounts and bookmark pages or add items to your cart now, but double-check prices before checkout. Shopping carts don’t always update in real time, and prices may drop lower. Have your shipping and payment info ready to avoid last-second delays.

Shop around for real value

Not every Black Friday sticker is a good deal. Compare prices across retailers, including holiday and everyday listings—so you can be sure you’re getting the true value.

Ask for price matches or promos

Don’t be shy about asking for price matching or promo codes, even ahead of Black Friday. Many retailers offer price adjustments, and you might secure the deal early, better than standing in line on the big day.

Consider auctions and resellers

Online marketplaces like eBay can yield early Black Friday pricing if you're willing to bid. Set your maximum to the sale price and act quickly, you might win the item for less. Be sure to check return policies.

Watch for stripped-down versions of products

A bargain price is not worth it if the product lacks essentials like ink, batteries, or key components. Make sure what you need is included before pulling the trigger.

Stick to your budget

Impulse splurges are easy during Black Friday chaos. Set a firm spending limit and account for extras like tax or shipping before you shop.

Use credit for extra protections

Credit cards can offer security, extended warranties, and fraud protection. Know your card benefits and use them strategically, but don’t treat them as an excuse to overspend.

Ignore the hype

Deals pop up throughout the holiday season, not just on Black Friday. If you don’t find what you want on the day, you might score it later at a better price with less stress.

Beware of doorbusters

Doorbusters are often limited in quantity and timed for early hours. Unless you are first in line, you are better off strategizing for consistently good deals instead.

Remember Cyber Monday

Many of the big deals continue online on Cyber Monday, December 2, and sometimes offer better options like free shipping or restocked inventory.

Use ads and apps to your advantage

Check store flyers and download apps now. They update fast with coupons, QR codes, and flash deals, having them ready puts you ahead.

Be early, even online

Online deals are starting earlier each year. Watch for midnight or early-morning launches and be logged in to save yourself from site crashes and sold-outs.

Follow retailers on social media

Brands often drop exclusive promotions on platforms like Instagram, Facebook, or Twitter. Follow your favorite retailers to stay in the loop.

Products likely to sell out first

Hot-ticket items like Apple AirPods Pro 2, Dyson Airwrap, Beats Studio Pro, and Hoka Bondi 8 sneakers are already flagged as high risk for sell-outs. If these are on your wish list, moving early is key. 2{index=2}

With Black Friday arriving November 29, 2024, your smartest move is action now not later. Plan, prepare, and don’t let hype or crowds waste your budget or your time.