Black Friday 2024 is set to deliver unbeatable discounts across various categories, including tech, fashion, home goods, and more. With the event likely starting in late November, retailers are expected to reveal early access deals in the weeks leading up to the big day. To help you maximize savings and stay ahead, here’s everything you need to know, from organizing your shopping list to scoring the best deals online and in-store.
When is Black Friday 2024?
Black Friday 2024 falls on November 29, but many retailers are known to kick off sales even earlier, with “pre-Black Friday” and “Cyber Week” events. Expect some sales to begin as early as the start of November. Many brands now offer early-bird discounts and members-only deals in the weeks before Black Friday, allowing you to snag items ahead of the rush.
How to Prepare for Black Friday Shopping
The key to a successful Black Friday shopping spree is preparation. Here are some tips to help you get ready:
Set a Budget
Identify how much you want to spend overall and break it down by category. This will prevent overspending and help you focus on must-have items.
Make a Wishlist
List all the items you plan to buy, from electronics and appliances to clothing and holiday gifts. A wishlist will help you stay organized, track price changes, and avoid impulsive purchases.
Sign Up for Newsletters
Most retailers offer special deals for subscribers, so signing up for newsletters can get you exclusive discounts and early access. Many stores also send out discount codes and notifications on when sales begin, helping you to stay ahead.
Compare Prices Early
Use online tools and apps like Honey or CamelCamelCamel to monitor prices and ensure you’re truly getting the best deals. Many sites offer price history tracking, so you can see if an item has been discounted before or if the Black Friday price is genuinely a steal.
Top Categories to Watch for Black Friday Deals
Certain product categories are known for their steep discounts on Black Friday. Here are some of the top categories to focus on:
Electronics
Look for major discounts on electronics, particularly for smartphones, laptops, gaming consoles, and televisions. Retailers like Best Buy, Amazon, and Walmart often lead in this category, offering exclusive tech deals for the latest models.
Fashion and Apparel
Black Friday is one of the best times to buy clothing and accessories, especially from high-end brands. Stores like Nordstrom, ASOS, and Zara are known to slash prices, making it a great opportunity to update your wardrobe.
Home Goods and Appliances
If you’re looking for kitchen gadgets, furniture, or home essentials, Black Friday often features impressive markdowns in these categories. Check out Home Depot, Wayfair, and IKEA for discounts on everything from coffee makers to home decor.
Beauty Products
Beauty retailers like Sephora and Ulta typically offer Black Friday deals on cosmetics, skincare, and fragrances. It’s the perfect time to stock up on essentials or treat yourself to new beauty products.
Where to Find the Best Deals
The following retailers are expected to offer top deals on Black Friday 2024:
- Amazon: Known for its deals across all categories, from tech to household items.
- Walmart: Expect unbeatable prices on electronics, toys, and appliances.
- Best Buy: Look here for exclusive discounts on top electronic brands.
- Target: Known for offering a wide range of deals across fashion, home goods, and toys.
- Apple: If you’re in the market for Apple products, check out their website for potential discounts, although retailers like Amazon may offer additional savings.
If you’re shopping internationally, Shippn provides package forwarding services that allow you to access Black Friday deals from stores worldwide, even if they don’t offer direct international shipping.
Black Friday Shopping Tips
Here are some tips to help you;
Start Early
Black Friday is no longer a one-day event. With early access deals and Cyber Week following this shopping day, you can start shopping well before the actual day to ensure you don’t miss out on discounts.
Use Loyalty Programs
Many retailers offer loyalty programs with extra benefits, like early access to sales, additional discounts, or even cashback. Signing up for these programs before Black Friday can give you a leg up on exclusive offers.
Consider Buy Now, Pay Later Options
For big-ticket items, consider using “buy now, pay later” options available on platforms like Klarna, Afterpay, or Affirm. These options help you spread out payments, making it easier to manage your budget.
Stick to Your List
Impulse buying is common on Black Friday, so sticking to your list is essential to avoid overspending. Having a plan helps you stay focused and ensures that you’re purchasing items you actually need.
Shopping Online vs. In-Store: Pros and Cons
Deciding whether to shop online or in-store depends on your priorities. Here’s a quick breakdown:
Online Shopping
- Pros: Convenience, wider product selection, and easy price comparison.
- Cons: Risk of delayed shipping due to high demand, and items can sell out quickly.
In-Store Shopping
- Pros: Ability to see and test products in person, sometimes with exclusive in-store deals.
- Cons: Potentially long lines, crowded stores, and the need to arrive early to secure deals.
Many retailers offer both online and in-store Black Friday deals, so choose the option that best suits your needs and comfort.
Cyber Monday and Beyond
While Black Friday offers incredible deals, Cyber Monday (December 2, 2024) focuses on exclusive online discounts, especially in categories like electronics, fashion, and tech accessories. Additionally, some retailers extend Black Friday deals throughout Cyber Week, providing more chances to score deals.
If you miss out on Black Friday or are waiting for better deals, Cyber Monday and Cyber Week provide additional opportunities to shop without the pressure of one-day-only sales.
Get Ready to Score Big This Black Friday
Black Friday 2024 is shaping up to be a major event with deals across every category. By preparing in advance, setting a budget, and knowing which categories and retailers to prioritize, you can make the most of these sales. Whether you’re shopping in-store or online, planning carefully will help you avoid overspending and ensure you get the best prices.
If you’re an international shopper, Shippn’s package forwarding service can help you access U.S. Black Friday deals and have them shipped directly to you. Sign up with Shippn to get the best of Black Friday, no matter where you are!