Black Friday Tips to Score the Best Deals

Apps, emails, and other ways to save money while avoiding the hectic crowds

From the LifeMinute.TV Team

November 15, 2023

The day after Thanksgiving is one of the biggest shopping days of the year in the US when stores offer a flurry of deals. Here are stress-free strategies to make the most of those discounts on November 24.

Set a Budget
Nail down the items you must have. And leave room for last-minute gifts. Once your list is put together, calculate the maximum amount you can afford to spend and stick to it.

Research Prices
Learn the average prices of items on your shopping list ahead of time, especially the big-ticket ones, so you can identify a deal when you see one. And look up the price-match policy of the store (if they have one). When asking for a price match, typically, you need to provide evidence, like a screenshot or print ad, that you can get a lower price on the same item of a competitor’s offer.

Sign Up for Retailer Email Lists
Subscribing to mailing lists of favorite brands and stores now could provide you advance notice of sales or immediate savings opportunities. You could also snag a discount for your first post-signup purchase.   

Download and Use Store Apps
Retailer apps can seamlessly track your coupons and rewards points and send notifications for the newest bargains, which could mean a heads-up when Black Friday deals start dropping. Be aware of any restrictions, including bargains that only run until a specific time or on a precise day.

Shop Early
Black Friday has become less like a one-day sale and more like a month-long event. Some stores even started promoting deals weeks ago, so you may be able to obtain that best deal now. Shopping early also increases the likelihood of getting your items on time, not to mention avoiding out-of-stock issues and the stress of the mad dash day.

Shop Online
Many retailers offer the same promotions online you see in stores – and without the shoving. Online sales may start well ahead of Black Friday, or you could get early access to deals. Take advantage of any free delivery options and ship-to-store offers while you surf.

Avoid Buyer’s Remorse
Familiarize yourself with store policies, including returns, in advance. Check to see if the merchandise is a “final sale.” Items under this designation usually cannot be exchanged or returned.

Take Advantage of Curbside Pickup
In-store, curbside, or drive-up pickup combines the best of both worlds. You can shop online and still get your items faster than waiting for delivery. If you decide to venture in-store to shop on Black Friday, concentrate on a couple of favorite retailers where you can get most of your shopping done.