While Black Friday 2018 may seem ages away it’s never too early to start planning ahead! While retailers from all over the country are busy with ensuring they have enough stock and with refining their Black Friday offers, you should also be putting together your Black Friday shopping strategy. In order to be as ready as possible, keep reading to get the top Black Friday preparation tips for a smooth shopping experience.
- Plan your budget.
This is probably the most obvious tip you should follow, but so many people overlook it and end up overspending on products or services that break the bank. Make sure to calculate how much you can afford to spend on Black Friday and start saving from today!
- Make a list.
The earlier you create a list of the Black Friday deals you are looking for, the better! Write down a list of the products you are on the lookout for this year. A TV, a dishwasher, a cricket set, designer bags or even airplane tickets? List everything you want and set a maximum spending amount next to it. This way when Black Friday comes you will know which deals you can grab; prioritising will help you save a maximum amount of money!
- Be Smart & Flexible!
Even though you may want a very specific mobile phone model or a specific colour of a fashion item it’s important that you stay flexible. The item you are on the lookout for may not have a high Black Friday discount; a smart shopper who is looking for a new smartphone for example, will find a one with similar characteristics that also fits the bill. You can download an app like ShopSavvy that can help you compare products!
- Start Shopping Early.
Don’t wait for the 23rd of November to start shopping! Most stores have pre-Black Friday offers that can commence even three weeks before the main event! Keep an eye on your favorite brands the week of Black Friday to make sure you don’t miss any discount, special Black Friday promo code or salve event.
- Become a Social Media Ninja.
This is probably the tip that is mostly overlooked by customers who search for Black Friday deals. Even though, the companies’ websites can provide all the details on the Black Friday promos, sometimes you can find additional special discounts and promo codes on social media like Facebook or Twitter.
- Decide where you will be shopping early!
First, you must decide how you will be shopping; online or in store. If you are shopping in store, determine the opening hours of the stores you want to visit. Many stores have special Black Friday hours, so make sure to check their website, social media accounts or drop them a line if you are uncertain.
- Be quick, but not too quick!
No matter where you decide to shop, online or in-store, make sure to double check the deal you are grabbing before you checkout. If you are standing in a queue waiting to pay for the bargain you have found, you can check websites like PricePirates to see if your product is sold somewhere else for less!
- Familiarize Yourself With Return Policies
Read up on the Black Friday return policies of the stores you are planning on visit! Some items may not be eligible for return or refund, so you must be prepared.
- Check for coupons!
Whether you are shopping online or in-store, Black Friday coupons can always help you save more. Bring coupons or printed advertisements you find online with you to the store to avoid any pricing confusion. If you are shopping online, check coupon websites like Black Friday Global to see if they have any Jumia Black Friday vouchers that you can use before you checkout.
No matter how and when you Black Friday shop remember that shopping must be fun! With a little strategic preparation and positive attitude you can rest assured that you will find everything you need!