Black Friday deals are already rolling out, and retailers are prepping for a smooth shopping experience. For many, it’s the most exciting shopping day of the year, and missing out isn’t an option. Planning to join in? Here are six useful tips to snag the best deals this Black Friday.
1. **Plan Your Shopping Route**
Traffic and parking will be a nightmare, so it’s smart to choose a mall or shopping center with clusters of major stores. Get there early to grab a parking spot, and visit all nearby stores before giving up that spot. This is especially handy if you need to drop off multiple purchases at your car.
2. **Bring Ads for Price Matching**
Stores like Walmart and Target are great for price matching. If they carry items also available at Best Buy or Staples, you can save yourself a trip. Just make sure you check their price matching policy first, as many won’t match prices on limited-quantity deals. The FatWallet Black Friday app can help you track ads on the go.
3. **Check Out Online Deals**
You might find the best Black Friday deals without leaving home. Many retailers update their websites with in-store deals on Thursday night or Friday morning. Not all doorbusters will be online, but you’ll still find plenty of great offers. Use platforms like Ebates to earn cashback on online purchases and always look for online coupons. Plus, no lines!
4. **Team Up**
Don’t go it alone on Black Friday. Partner with friends or family to scout deals and divide up the shopping tasks. This increases your chances of grabbing those must-have doorbusters. Rotating who stands in line will also cut down on wait time and allow everyone to look around more.
5. **Get Gift Cards Early**
Buying discounted gift cards or merchandise credit from sites like eBay or Giftcardgranny.com can add to your savings. Knowing which stores you plan to visit will help you get an extra 10-25% off.
6. **Use Your Credit Card**
While cash is often preferred, using a credit card can offer added protection against loss or fraud. Many cards provide free one-year warranties and purchase protection, which can lead to unexpected savings. Just use your credit responsibly to avoid adding to your debt.
For those who love the Black Friday buzz, using these strategies can help you land the best deals. How are you planning to tackle Black Friday this year—will you shop in-store or online?