Gifts for Them, Gear for You, And Savings All Around!
That’s right, folks! It’s that time again. Retail stores across all sectors have their biggest sales of the year for you to fill the bottom of the Christmas tree. But how do you get the best bang for your buck during Black Friday and/or Cyber Monday? Well, I’m glad you asked.
Game Plan for Black Friday/Cyber Monday and Stick to It!
First things first, you want to have a clear list of what you’re going for. If you need gifts for friends or family, make sure they know they have a deadline for letting you know what they want. Buying something for yourself? Be sure to catalog what you have and prioritize what you need. Either way, make your list, check it twice, and stick to it. Falling victim to impulse buying is how you end up with an extra $1000 missing from your account.
Research Prices Prior to Black Friday/Cyber Monday
Before you start spending, get to Googling. Not all sales are created equal, so check every and any store that carries what you’re looking for and compare prices. There are also price comparison sites like Google Shopping is helpful for keeping an eye on multiple prices in one place, while a site like Honey is great for getting coupons and discounts.
Don’t Push It to the Limit
If you were ever going to draw a line in the sand, this is the place to do it. Set a hard limit and stick to it like your life depends on it (your financial life just might). Carry cash or set card limits/alerts beforehand to ensure you don’t betray your bank account.
Beware of Scams and Fake Deals During Black Friday/Cyber Monday
Never forget, if it seems too good to be true, it probably is. Scams are at an all-time high these days, especially online. Again, doing your research ahead of time will help you see through a fake deal like a $20 PlayStation 5 or $10 Gucci Loafers. Also, stick with known, reputable stores. If you find it difficult to find information about a shop, especially online, it might be best to keep looking.
Remember the Reason for the Season
Try not to forget you were likely just talking about how grateful you are for your friends, family, and life. Don’t push it buying a bunch of things because the price is right. If you feel yourself getting stressed or overwhelmed, take a minute, think about your budget, and know that your presence is a present. Besides, that soundbar will still be around in a year.
The Wrap Up
When it comes to Black Friday, Cyber Monday, or any other major sale, it’s best to protect your wallet rather than letting the FOMO (fear of missing out) get the best of you. These may all feel like once in a lifetime deals, but there will always be another sale/price drop/new product. You’d be better off taking care of your mental health during this stressful time than piling on the stress. Consider going shopping with a friend or family member to be your accountabili-buddy in case you try to go off the deep end with your spending. Also, get a good breakfast in you. There’s nothing worse than being hangry while shopping on the most hectic shopping day of the year. Even if you’re shopping online, make a day out of it so spending money isn’t the focus of the day. Keep the joy in the holidays, protect your wallet, and score some great deals!
- Why Is Impulse Buying Worse Online?
- Why You’re More Susceptible to a Con than You Might Think
- Setting Boundaries
- How Social Media Impacts Your Spending
Writer, rhymer, gamer: the easiest way to define the man known as Kenneth Medford. I’m a simple man who loves to learn and loves to help and I wander the digital world trying to find ways to sate my hunger for both. Basically, I’m Galactus but helpful.
Check out my other work here or reach out to me on LinkedIn.
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