6 Ways to Plan Ahead for Black Friday

Remember not so long ago, when there was just one big day a year in which you could truly look forward to deep discounts on items for the holidays? 

Of course, we're talking about Black Friday, the Friday after Thanksgiving, a day once synonymous with the beginning of the Christmas shopping season in which stores promoted deep discounts and stellar sales to those shoppers committed to getting there when the store opened — or even to wait in line hours before. 

While Black Friday still exists, it's no longer relegated to a 24-hour time period. At first, many stores started extending their sales through to Cyber Monday, when online deals abound. Now, the sales have been moving in the other direction — with some early discounts at large retailers happening as early as October.

One thought process behind these early deals is to try to lure shoppers to spend money earlier and earlier in the season amid fears of curbed holiday spending due to inflation. 

If this news makes you feel like you've already missed the Black Friday boat, don't fret. There's plenty of time to snag deals before the holidays and beyond. Learn how to take advantage of sales in the coming months in a budget-friendly way and the best deals to look out for. 

Ready to score some sweet Black Friday deals early? Follow these six tips to make sure you shop intentionally and avoid any impulsive shopping that could cause you to go over budget or cause bad credit. 

1. Make a Black Friday shopping list.

What is it that you (or someone on your gift list) really, really needs or wants this holiday season? Write a list of what you need to buy and stick to that list when searching for the best deals. 

Although you might see Black Friday deals for high-ticket items (like cars, TVs, or computers), keep in mind that there are other (possibly better) times throughout the year in which to score even better deals.

2. Do your Black Friday research.

While it's tempting to purchase an item on sale from the first Black Friday ad you see, remember that it may not be the best price. To really save the most money you can, you'll have to do a little research. Write down items, prices, and stores on a piece of paper or make a spreadsheet. Only shop when you've found the lowest price.

3. Try price-tracking browser extensions.

Easily set up alerts with price trackers such as Keepa and Honey that will notify you when an item you've marked online has changed or dropped in price.

4. Learn about price protection.

If you're worried that an item you've found on sale will go out of stock soon and you want to purchase it now, ask about price protection. If a store offers price protection, that means that if you see it for a lower price later, you can ask for an adjustment on your purchase to get the better deal (but keep track of those receipts!). 

5. Shop mindfully.

It's so easy to feel like a kid in a candy store when faced with so many sale signs and tags on things you want and/or need. In a rare twist (as of late), many stores might actually have too much inventory during this season. The best way to tackle all the tempting offers is to shop mindfully, and with that list you made early on. Stick to a plan to keep your holiday shopping budget under control.

6. Know another sale is just around the corner.

Even if you can't afford that item you really want right now or happen to miss out on it, know that Black Friday is no longer the only deep discount shopping day of the season. Sale prices listed in November may actually be indicative of an "always-on" discount they plan to extend till the end of the year. 

Best Deals for Black Friday 2022 

What are the best deals you can expect this Black Friday 2022 (and throughout the year)? Here are some early predictions: 

• Best Buy. This retailer is already advertising low prices on TVs, tech, and toys. 
• Home Depot. For all those kitchen appliances, power tools, storage, and smart home needs, Home Depot has all the deals. 
• Target. Another big-box store with loads of deals on tech, toys, floor care, and small kitchen appliances, Target has sales on the stuff you love. As a bonus, Target is offering a holiday price match guarantee, so you know you're getting the lowest prices. 
• Amazon. Hit up Amazon early for good deals on kitchen appliances and cookware, shoes, tech, clothing, and beauty. 
• Walmart. Known for its year-round deals, this holiday season Walmart is knocking back prices on fashion and accessories, toys, tech, video games, and more. 
• Macy's. For low prices on home goods, clothing, and beauty items galore, Macy's should not be overlooked.  
  

Are you excited to save some serious cash this holiday season? Remember it's important to check your budget, then make a list (and stick to it), before heading out this Black Friday. 

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