Black Friday is fast approaching—this year it lands on November 29—but many brands have already started rolling out early deals. For seasoned shopping pros, the key isn’t just spotting discounts; it’s knowing how to navigate the frenzy without losing your mind—or your wallet. Over years of covering the biggest shopping holiday, I’ve learned strategies that separate the savvy shoppers from the overwhelmed. Here are ten expert-tested hacks to maximize your savings and stay ahead of the chaos.
1. Do Your Homework
It might seem obvious, but research is the foundation of a successful Black Friday. The biggest mistake shoppers make is wandering into sales without a plan. Black Friday offers countless discounts, but not every deal is worth your money. Before you click “buy,” make a list of must-have items and stick to it.
For higher-priced items, check reviews and compare models or styles beforehand. Understanding which products truly deliver value prevents you from splurging on things you don’t need. A little research can save a lot of regret later.
2. Subscribe for Early Access
Sign up for newsletters from your favorite stores. Retailers often reward subscribers with early access, exclusive discounts, or secret promotions. Setting up alerts for wishlist items—especially on platforms with fluctuating prices—ensures you’re among the first to know when a deal drops.
3. Save Billing Info for Speedy Checkout
Time is money during Black Friday. Enable autofill on your devices so your billing and shipping details are preloaded. This small tweak can make the difference between snagging a doorbuster deal and watching it disappear in your cart.
4. Compare Prices Efficiently
Use online tools or search features to instantly compare prices across multiple retailers. Typing in the exact product name and checking the results can reveal hidden bargains. By seeing all the options at once, you can make smarter, faster decisions and avoid overpaying.
5. Leverage Extended Return Policies
Many retailers offer extended return windows through the holidays. Buying early doesn’t mean missing out on a better deal later—if the price drops, you may be able to return or exchange the item for the lower cost. Keep receipts and check the policy for each store to maximize flexibility.
6. Use Advanced Search Filters
Retail websites often have filters that can help you pinpoint discounts quickly. Sort items by percentage off to find the biggest savings, or by price—low to high for essentials, high to low for larger items you’ve been eyeing. Mastering search filters can save you hours of scrolling.
7. Shop Online When Possible
Online shopping is faster, safer, and often has exclusive deals. Avoiding crowded stores means no long lines, no rushed decisions, and no battling for parking spots. Many items are only available online, so logging in from home can put you ahead of the game.
8. Make In-Store Shopping Strategic
If you do venture into a physical store, focus on items that are best experienced in person or that have limited stock. Doorbuster deals are rare but can be worth the effort. Shopping on the day before the main rush can also help you avoid crowds while still scoring great prices.
9. Maximize Loyalty Programs
Free loyalty programs can unlock early access, exclusive discounts, and other perks. Being a member often means you get insider deals, bonus points, or special rewards that non-members miss out on. Consider signing up at your favorite stores for extra savings this holiday season.
10. Hunt Gift Card Deals
Gift cards can be a stealthy way to save big. During Black Friday, you can often find popular brands, retailers, and entertainment gift cards at a discount. This is perfect for last-minute gifts or stacking discounts on future purchases.
