Black Friday is a paradise for shopping enthusiasts. However, things are not just rosy.
As the time comes around again, Black Friday – the festival of “huge sales” from various brands is here. This is when shoppers prepare their wallets to dive into shopping malls or stay up all night at their computers hunting for discounted items, with savings that could fill a bag.
But it’s important to know that Black Friday is a time full of “traps” that you can easily fall into if you’re not careful. The consequences can be numerous: you might end up paying more, or even buying counterfeit or defective products.
To avoid such tragic situations, learn the tips below to find the best “deals.”
1. Create a Shopping List
In recent years, Black Friday is no longer just a one-day event; it extends before and after that Friday. Consequently, the variety of products on sale is vast, making it essential to create a shopping list, especially if your budget is limited.
When crowds rush in like this, you should just buy as quickly as possible.
Before you decide to go “hunting”, make a list of items you want to purchase to avoid wasting time and getting distracted by other tempting deals. This list will help you stay on track, choose the right items, and escape the crowds as quickly as possible.
2. Avoid Snapping Up the First Discount
Browse around some other stores and online shops before deciding to spend.
During Black Friday, retailers are ready to offer incredibly attractive discounts. Due to competition, their deals can vary significantly.
So, don’t be hasty when you see an item that “looks appealing.” Browse around some other stores and online shops before you decide to spend.
3. Remember, not every deal is a real deal
One reason you shouldn’t rush into a decision is that the discounts offered may not necessarily be a “great deal.”
Christmas is when brands offer deeper discounts.
Typically, the Christmas period sees brands offering even better sales. So, the price of the item you intend to buy may drop even more if you can wait.
Furthermore, a classic method used by brands is to inflate prices and then mark them down, especially for deals on e-commerce sites like Amazon or eBay. Some retailers may even mix in counterfeit or defective items to profit.
When shopping in person, pay attention to the quality of the items. For online shopping, you should use websites or apps that compare prices in real-time, such as CCC or Fake Spot.
Screenshot from the CCC website of a “seemingly good” computer monitor deal.
4. Stick to Your Budget, Avoid Credit Cards
Set your shopping limits and stick to them.
With a tight budget, you cannot shop frivolously. Set your shopping limits and adhere to them. This will help you avoid the dreaded “empty wallet” feeling after the shopping spree ends.
Additionally, it’s advisable not to use credit cards. Having a line of credit can easily lead you to overspend and fall into a credit trap without realizing it.
5. Don’t Expect Too Much
Most heavily discounted items are either overstock or defective.
Essentially, Black Friday or any other sale event is an opportunity for retailers to clear out overstock. So, it’s no surprise that heavily discounted items are often overstock or defective.
Meanwhile, the truly best and newest items may only see minimal discounts – from 10% to 20%. While this can still be a way to save, compared to the “rock-bottom” sales expected on Black Friday, this discount may not satisfy most shoppers.
Shop Online from Home
In addition to e-commerce sites, many brands, both local and international, now invest in their own modern and convenient online shopping systems to relieve pressure on stores during sale seasons. It is especially important to choose online shops that offer return or exchange policies after purchase, as you won’t be able to try on items directly during sales.
Carefully Choose Your Shopping Locations
Prioritize reputable addresses that guarantee quality.
Black Friday is a time for everyone to discount their products, so you can see sale announcements everywhere. However, don’t choose stores solely based on the quantity of discounted items or the attractiveness of the prices. Prioritize reputable addresses that are guaranteed for quality. The best places to hunt for discounts are busy streets where shops are clustered together or in shopping malls where major brands are located.
Prepare Your Health Well
Shopping during sales is truly an “athletic event” that is both thrilling and exhausting. While the joy of snagging a great pair of shoes or a beautiful lipstick at a fantastic price can make you forget your fatigue, you need to be in top shape to “battle” through a whole day of Black Friday.
Make sure to eat well but not too heavily, as you will need to walk and carry a lot. Dress comfortably, wear sports shoes, and go with a group of friends to lighten the shopping load.
Narrow Down Suitable Stores
Wandering around many stores during Black Friday is not the ideal suggestion. What is the secret to saving time and effort while shopping? Look for stores that suit your style in advance. Besides the initial benefit of easily picking your favorite items, you won’t have to struggle with the crowds during busy shopping days.
Avoid Buying in Bulk
Many brands often apply the Buy More – Save More program to stimulate consumer spending. However, don’t let a large promotion trick you into “falling into a trap.”
Buying items in bulk can often save you money. But if you don’t use everything, it can lead to waste, especially with food.
Food that is stored for too long can lose freshness and nutritional value. Therefore, avoid stocking up too much food in your refrigerator.
