If you’re hoping to save a lot on gadgets, home items, clothing, or kitchen tools, there’s no better time than Black Friday and Cyber Monday. These two shopping events have earned their reputation for slashing prices on some of the most sought-after products around. Every year, I keep my list ready, waiting for these dates to roll in.
I’ve been keeping an eye on these sales for close to a decade now, and let me tell you—it’s worth the wait. Things I wouldn’t buy on impulse any other time of the year suddenly become affordable. From gifts to personal splurges, there’s no better chance to grab what’s been sitting in your online cart for months. Over time, though, these events have evolved. Gone are the chaotic crowds you’d see on the news. Now, many of the deals are right at your fingertips, online.
But, with so many stores offering discounts, it can get chaotic. Which retailer has the biggest markdowns? Where’s the best place to find what you’re looking for? And are there ways to avoid feeling completely overwhelmed? Over the years, I’ve learned a few tricks that make navigating these sales easier. Hopefully, they’ll work for you too.
Step 1: Join Store Email Lists
Before sales even begin, think about which stores are your favorites. Go to their websites and sign up for their emails. Yes, it’s annoying to have a full inbox, but it pays off during this time. You’ll get notifications about flash sales, exclusive deals, and sometimes even early access.
Step 2: Use a VPN for Hidden Discounts
Did you know that prices can vary based on where you’re shopping from? It’s true! Some regions get better deals on the same items. A VPN allows you to view prices as if you were shopping from another country. For tech items, especially, this can lead to huge savings. It’s not always guaranteed, but it’s worth checking.
For example, I once saved over $100 on a laptop by pretending to shop from Europe instead of the U.S. All it took was connecting to a VPN server in the right region. Look into countries where electronics are generally cheaper, like India or parts of Southeast Asia, and browse their versions of popular e-commerce sites.
Step 3: Buy Discounted Gift Cards
Here’s another clever move: purchase discounted gift cards for stores you plan to shop at. Websites like Raise often sell gift cards for less than their face value. You can use these during sales to stack your savings. Just make sure the cards are for places you know you’ll buy from, so you don’t waste money on unused balances.
Step 4: Stay Organized
Once you’ve gathered your deals, coupons, and gift cards, keep them all in one place. Sort everything based on your shopping priorities. Make note of when sales begin and whether the discounts are limited in quantity. This helps you avoid missing out or wasting time on deals that are gone by the time you click “buy.”
Step 5: Prepare a Backup Plan
Sometimes, your top choices sell out before you can grab them. Don’t let it ruin your day. Have a secondary list of items and stores you can pivot to if needed. It’s always better to have options than to leave empty-handed.
Step 6: Consider Late Shopping
Here’s a trick not many think of: shop in the evening on Black Friday. While everyone else is exhausted from lining up early in the morning, stores are often quiet later in the day. Plenty of deals are still available, and you’ll have a much calmer experience.
Step 7: Use Apps for Price Comparisons
Don’t trust a price tag just because it says “sale.” Apps like Google Shopping and ShopSavvy let you compare prices across multiple retailers. They’re fast and easy, and ensure you’re not overpaying. It’s one of the simplest ways to double-check if you’re truly getting a bargain.
Step 8: Take Advantage of Loyalty Programs
Free loyalty programs can be a goldmine. Stores like Target, Sephora, and even LEGO offer perks to members. Early access to deals, extra discounts, and free gifts are just a few benefits. If you’re not already signed up, now’s the time.
Step 9: Watch Out for Price Drops
Here’s a little-known hack: many stores have extended return or price adjustment policies during the holiday season. For example, Target will match a lower price if the same item is discounted further before Christmas Eve. If you find a better deal, you can get the difference refunded—or simply buy the item again at the lower price and return the original.
Step 10: Avoid the Noise
Skip the hype around extended warranties—they’re rarely worth it. Electronics typically come with manufacturer warranties, and most issues arise within that coverage period. Also, think twice about bringing kids along. The crowds, long waits, and general chaos make it stressful for everyone.
Black Friday and Cyber Monday are about strategy. With a little planning and the right tools, you can save big while avoiding the headaches that come with last-minute scrambling. For me, it’s always about finding the best deal without losing my sanity—and these tips have never let me down.
