Black Friday has long been known as the official kick-off to the holiday shopping season, with consumers eagerly waiting for the day after Thanksgiving to snag incredible deals. However, in recent years, retailers have shifted gears and started launching Black Friday sales earlier than ever. What was once a one-day event has morphed into a month-long extravaganza, leaving shoppers both excited and a bit overwhelmed. I started receiving Black Friday Sales emails on November 1 this year!
Here’s a guide on how to navigate these early sales and get the most bang for your buck.
The Rise of Early Black Friday Sales
One reason for this shift is the growing trend of online shopping, accelerated by the pandemic. Retailers want to spread out their sales to avoid overcrowding and long lines, especially since more shoppers are opting for online purchases. Early sales not only ease pressure on logistics and delivery systems but also capture a wider audience who may be hesitant to shop in-store.
This year, expect major retailers like Amazon, Walmart, Target, and Best Buy to kick off their sales even sooner, offering deals that begin in early November and stretch through Cyber Monday. The allure of snagging a deal before the actual Black Friday can be enticing, especially as stocks for popular items dwindle quickly.
Tips for Scoring the Best Deals
1. Start Early: Don’t wait until the day before Thanksgiving to start your shopping. Get a head start by checking out the deals offered in early November. Many retailers will tease their Black Friday deals well in advance, so keeping an eye on their websites and newsletters can give you a competitive edge.
2. Make a List and Set a Budget: It’s easy to get swept up in the excitement of sales, so make a list of items you truly want or need, and set a budget for how much you’re willing to spend. This will help you avoid impulse buys and stick to what’s important.
3. Compare Prices: With so many retailers offering deals, it’s essential to compare prices across different platforms. Use price comparison tools or apps to help you find the best offers. Websites like Honey or CamelCamelCamel can alert you when prices drop, ensuring you snag the best deal. There are also plenty of browser extensions to help you save while you shop!
Here’s an example for you. On the email I received from BJ’s Club on November 1, one of the items in their holiday toy sales section was the Lego Disney Advent Calendar. I decided to just do a quick comparison of some of the usual places I shop and see who had the lowest price. I would like to note that all of these places had this particular item listed as on sale.
- The Disney Store – $44.99
- Ace Hardware – $59.99
- Target – $35.99 (sale ends Sunday 11/3/2024)
- Amazon – $35.99 (20% off from The Lego Store)
- Walmart – $35.99
- BJ’s Wholesale Club – $39.99 (members only price)
- Aldi – $39.99
4. Sign Up for Alerts: Join mailing lists and follow your favorite retailers on social media. Many stores offer exclusive early access to sales or additional discounts for subscribers. Don’t miss out on flash sales or special promotions just because you’re not on the mailing list.
5. Use Cashback and Rewards Programs: Take advantage of cashback websites like Rakuten or Ibotta, which can provide you with a percentage back on your purchases. Additionally, if you have rewards credit cards, using them wisely during Black Friday can rack up points or cash back.
6. Consider Refurbished or Open-Box Items: Retailers like Best Buy and Amazon often have significant discounts on open-box or refurbished items. These can be excellent ways to get high-quality products at a fraction of the price. Just ensure that they come with a warranty or return policy.
7. Stay Organized: As sales come and go quickly, make sure to track the items you want. Create a spreadsheet or use a note-taking app to record prices, specifications, and where to buy. This organization can save you time and stress as you navigate through the sales.
8. Don’t Forget About Cyber Monday: The day after Black Friday often features incredible online deals. If you’re unable to find what you’re looking for or if certain items are out of stock, Cyber Monday could be your second chance. Many retailers extend their sales, so keep an eye on those deals.
Final Thoughts
Black Friday may no longer be just a one-day event, but that just means more opportunities for savvy shoppers. By starting early, planning ahead, and using strategic shopping tactics, you can make the most of this annual sales bonanza. With a little preparation, you’ll be able to score fantastic deals without breaking the bank this holiday season. Happy shopping!
