Black Friday and Cyber Monday (BFCM) are the ultimate shopping events of the year, offering huge discounts on everything from electronics to fashion. With the right strategies, you can save big while avoiding common pitfalls. Here’s how to maximize your BFCM experience and make sure you’re getting the best deals.

Top Tips for Black Friday and Cyber Monday Shopping

1. Plan Ahead

   • Create a list of the items you want to purchase and research their regular prices to spot genuine discounts.

2. Set a Budget

   • Decide how much you’re willing to spend and stick to it to avoid overspending.

3. Start Early

   • Many retailers start their sales early. Shopping ahead of time helps you secure popular items before they sell out.

4. Use Price Comparison Tools

   • Check prices across retailers with tools like Keepa or CamelCamelCamel to ensure you’re getting the best deals.

5. Sign Up for Newsletters

   • Subscribe to retailer newsletters for exclusive deals and early access to sales.

6. Check Return Policies

   • Review the return terms on sale items, as they may differ from standard policies.

7. Prioritize Big-Ticket Items

   • Electronics and other high-value items often have the most significant discounts, so focus on these for maximum savings.

8. Be Cautious of Scams

   • Stick to reputable retailers to avoid falling victim to fraud or misleading deals.

9. Utilize Loyalty Programs

   • Many retailers offer loyalty rewards or member-only discounts during BFCM.

10. Stay Organized

    • Keep track of your purchases and receipts for easy returns or exchanges.

Lesser-Known Shopping Strategies

Take your BFCM game to the next level with these advanced tips.

1. Utilize Browser Extensions

   • Tools like Honey or CamelCamelCamel automatically apply coupons and track price histories, saving you time and money.

2. Leverage Social Media

   • Follow your favorite brands on platforms like Twitter and Instagram for exclusive flash sales and promotional codes.

3. Use Multiple Devices

   • Shopping on both your computer and smartphone can help you navigate crowded websites faster.

4. Abandon Your Cart

   • Leaving items in your online cart might trigger retailers to send you discounts via email to finalize the purchase.

5. Check for Price Adjustments

   • Some retailers will refund the difference if an item you buy goes on sale shortly after.

6. Shop Incognito

   • Use your browser’s incognito mode to avoid dynamic pricing based on your browsing history, potentially scoring better deals.

7. Stack Discounts

   • Combine store sales with manufacturer coupons or cashback offers to maximize savings.

8. Set Deal Alerts

   • Use apps or websites to set alerts for your favorite products and get notified when they drop to your target price.

9. Consider Refurbished Items

• Certified refurbished products often offer great value for a fraction of the cost of new items.

1. Review Return Policies

• Double-check return policies for sale items to avoid surprises later.

Cautious Shopping: TV Deals

TVs are a hot item during BFCM, but not all deals are as good as they seem. Many discounted models need to be updated or of higher quality. Stick to premium brands like LG’s A, B, or G series. If you’re serious about upgrading your TV, consider waiting for Super Bowl season, when better deals often surface.

Smart Shopping Tools

• Keepa and CamelCamelCamel for tracking price histories.

• Honey for auto-applying coupons at checkout.

• Social Media for exclusive flash sales.

By combining these tips with proper planning, you can make the most of Black Friday and Cyber Monday while avoiding common pitfalls. What’s your strategy for snagging the best deals this year?