4 ways to get the most out of Black Friday deals

With Black Friday riling up shoppers at the end of November, it’s the most convenient time to save on holiday gifts. Some people take advantage of these irresistible sales to pick up a new TV or coffee maker, but many use it as an excuse to finish Christmas shopping early.

Last year, it was the Instapots that flew off the shelves. We don’t know what it’ll be this year, but we won’t be surprised if we see another Hatchimals phenomenon. What we do know is if Black Friday is your catalyst for buying gifts for the family, there are a few ways you can start strategizing now:

Make a list (and check it twice)

To be as efficient as possible, try to plan your shopping in advance–especially if you’re heading to the mall. What do the kids want? What has your partner been asking for? Do you usually participate in gift exchanges with coworkers? Will you need gifts for multiple celebrations over the next few months (like Christmas, Hanukkah, New Year’s, a birthday)?

This is one example of how strategically spending money can help you save money. Planning gifts several months in advance will not only mean less stress for you down the road, but you can make your wallet happier by getting the Black Friday discounts now, rather than waiting to buy the same gifts at full price a week before the event.

Choose your stores carefully and get there in the morning. This advice comes with a disclaimer, though: go in with a plan, but keep your expectations in check because certain items might sell out early.

Look for last-minute sales

It’s still worth watching out for sales on items you don’t know you need. You may have planned to eventually replace your computer, but that ‘50% off’ sticker caught your eye at the store. If you find yourself buying replacements for existing items and don’t have the time or energy to list the old ones for sale, you could keep them in an offsite storage unit for now.

Get there early

If you really want to benefit from Black Friday sales, seasoned shoppers know that sometimes you need to line up early. Some people are willing to camp in line overnight, but this might be excessive if you value your sleep more than an extra 25% off.

Some people aren’t early risers. If you’re more of a night owl, you can always wait until Cyber Monday when online sales are in full swing. If you can handle the full inbox, sign up for mailing lists from your favourite companies now!

Keep gifts away from prying eyes

Some kids are dead set on uncovering their gifts before Christmas. They know your usual hiding spots: the back of the closet, the pantry, the trunk of the car. Make it impossible for them to find your Black Friday purchases by keeping them in that offsite storage unit we mentioned earlier. Make sure the surprise is a surprise!