Despite Black Friday being three weeks away, various retailers have already started creating anticipation for the shopping event. Not too long ago, Sears announced that it will be opening its doors at 8:00 PM on Thanksgiving and will remain open for a continuous 26 hours. Meanwhile, Kohl’s is planning to unveil its Black Friday deals on Wednesday, Nov. 21, allowing shoppers to be ready when the doors swing open at midnight on Thanksgiving.
Many shoppers are excitedly waiting for the Black Friday shopping spree, eager to secure the best deals of the season. However, it’s essential to remember that navigating Black Friday deals involves more than just enduring long queues. Some planning and preparatory work can place you ahead of fellow shoppers, even as you navigate these deals on a full stomach. Here are 10 steps towards a fail-safe shopping plan this Black Friday:
1. Configure a fresh email account. This can help compartmentalize your Black Friday receipts, alerts, and other shopping-related notifications, ensuring your primary or work email remains clutter-free.
2. Subscribe to retailer updates. Newsletters from your preferred stores often provide details about Black Friday schedules, unique deals, and other valuable information. It could also be beneficial to follow your favorite brands on social media for real-time updates and exclusive promo codes.
3. Procure discounted gift cards. One of the most effective ways to maximize your savings is by using these gift cards to make Black Friday purchases. Websites like GiftCardGranny.com sell gift cards for less than their listed value to well-known stores like Kohl’s, Target, Macy’s, and more, allowing you to save over 10% on average.
4. Liquidate some items. By selling unwanted items online or at consignment shops, you can bolster your holiday budget. For other ideas on extra income, refer to this article.
5. Determine a feasible budget. After assessing your financial circumstances, including impending travel costs and holiday expenses, set a practical budget for gift shopping and align your product choices accordingly. Check these tips from the smart women at LearnVest, which includes a holiday budget calculator.
6. Compose a list and research prices. After setting a budget, come up with your gift list, and allocate adequate time to price-check. Having an awareness of the products’ prices before Black Friday is a good defense against deceptive promotions.
7. Prep your mobile device. Ensure you have the latest shopping-related apps for in-store savings opportunities. Download the Coupon Sherpa mobile app for immediate access to mobile coupons, which some retailers give in addition to Black Friday discounts. Maintain all your loyalty programs in one place with CardStar, and utilize the RedLaser price comparison app to ensure you get the best possible deals.
8. Select an appropriate credit card. While credit cards aren’t suitable for everyone, if you are comfortable with them, it could be beneficial to inquire with your credit card company regarding any ongoing holiday promos. If your card does not offer additional rewards for holiday gift-buying, consider applying for a card that does. This way, you can accumulate points on planned purchases and exchange them for gift cards.
9. Plan your Thanksgiving dinner. If you’re a serious Black Friday shopper, it’s likely you’ve noted the shift in store opening times on Thanksgiving. To avoid any misunderstandings with guests, let them know that Thanksgiving dinner will be served earlier so that family time is not compromised.
10. Plan with family and friends. It’s never too early to sync up with your potential Black Friday partners. Not only does shopping in pairs or groups make it more enjoyable, but it also allows you to divide your shopping lists. Consider creating Facebook groups where people can find shopping pals and arrange shared travel.
