Are you ready for Black Friday and Cyber Monday? And by ready, we don’t just mean ready to shop. That’s the easy part. We want to know if you’re ready to maximize the two biggest shopping days of the year with as little stress as possible. Since we’re just as excited, we wanted to share some tips on how to make the most of it!
Black Friday & Cyber Monday: Planning
- Make a shopping list. Check it twice. (See what we did there?) One of the key components of creating a strategy is planning.
- Start the planning early. Some sales begin a week or two before the big day.
- Assemble your crew. Product is often limited on Black Friday, so it helps to have a shopping buddy or two to help divide and conquer.
- Avoid buying things because they’re on sale. Buy merchandise because it’s what you actually need.
- Do your research and check sites that draw together Black Friday and Cyber Monday sales like dealnews.com or blackfriday.com. Here you can browse through what each store is offering before entering the gauntlet.
- Don’t be fooled by sales prices. Check a price comparison website like PriceGrabber to find the best price available. Retail brand’s and store’s social media pages are also great places to get info.
- Beware of “doorbusters.” These prices aren’t always the deals they’re cracked up to be. Refer to the note on research. Don’t let them fool you.
Black Friday: In-Store Tactics
- Brace yourself for the crazy. Don’t be surprised if you hear the call of the wild. Wear comfortable shoes in case you have to dodge a stampede.
- Understand the lingo. “Final Sale” items usually can’t be returned, so make sure when you buy one of these items you’re aware of store policies.
- Always get the gift receipt. It will come in handy. We promise.
- Make the most of waiting in line–check for online deals or better prices elsewhere for the items on your shopping list.
- Clip coupons and bring sales papers with you so you’re able to hold the store accountable for giving you all the savings you deserve.
Cyber Monday Tips
- Some online stores charge you based on your geographic location, so try setting your browser to private so you don’t get overcharged based on zip code.
- Appliances and electronics are usually available at great prices on Cyber Monday, so if this is what you’re after, it may be best to wait.
- Use strong passwords, avoid public wifi networks and make sure you’re shopping on secure sites because phishing runs rampant during the holiday shopping season.
- Credit cards offer more protection than using your debit card, so be aware of what protections yours offer.
Adhere to your shopping list. Amazon and other sites love to include suggested purchase buttons. Be strong! And happy shopping!
Need another holiday season pro-tip? Ensure your house is in the best shape possible by giving Ned Stevens a call!
