6 Tips to navigate Black Friday on a Budget

Community 2 min read

22 Nov 2022

Will you be picking up a bargain on BLACK FRIDAY this year?
It is important to prepare yourself to notice a good deal from a dodgy one! To help you on your way, we’ve put together 6 tips and tricks on how to get the most out of the Black Friday sales.

1. Research

It pays to do your research on what you’re looking to buy – there is no point grabbing a bargain if the product has bad reviews.

2. Create a wishlist

Having your own wish list will make it easier to see when prices on items go on sale. It will also make it easier to focus and not be tempted by things you don’t need or want. Planning ahead can help you save money and time. Make a list of the items you’re shopping or the people you’re shopping for people and how much you're planning to spend on each so you overspend.

3. Make a budget

Review your wish list and write down how much you expect each item to cost. Making a budget will help you overspend on unnecessary items that you don’t need. Remember it’s not saving you money if it’s something that you don’t need.

4. Returns policy

Don't get caught out! It’s important to check before making a purchase what the returns policy on an item is.

5. Compare prices

If you’re thinking about investing in an expensive item and want to get the best deal available, a price comparison website will help you see what the market has to offer. You can do a quick price check online to get the cost of the item, what it has retailed for before the sale. You can then work out whether the 'sale' price is really good value.
 

6. Shopping online – use reputable sites

Sometimes if something is too good to be true – it probably is! Check the authenticity of the website you are buying from, do your research and check the reviews. The Competition and Consumer Protection Commission and the NI Consumer Council  have some guides and tips on how to stay safe while shopping online.
 
While Black Friday can be a great time to check off items on your Christmas shopping list, remember you still have plenty of time to get ready for Christmas on a budget that you can afford. If you find yourself struggling to budget talk to your local credit union today, we are here to help.