Black Friday is just around the corner, and with it comes the promise of jaw-dropping discounts, lightning sales, and irresistible deals. But amidst all the hype, it’s easy to fall into the trap of spending on things you don’t really need. If you’ve ever found yourself staring at a gadget or piece of clothing you barely use—complete with the lingering memory of a checkout frenzy—you’re not alone.
Let’s make Black Friday a smarter, more intentional shopping experience. Here’s how you can snag the best deals without falling victim to unnecessary splurging.
ALSO SEE: Hacks to help you save money fast
Set a spending limit before the sales start
The thrill of Black Friday often lies in its sense of urgency—countdowns, limited stock alerts, and deals that disappear in minutes. Before the sales start, decide on a budget you’re comfortable with. Setting a hard limit ensures you don’t overspend in the heat of the moment.
Consider separating your budget into categories—essentials like appliances or tech upgrades versus wants like that designer handbag you’ve been eyeing. When you allocate your funds ahead of time, you’ll have a clearer picture of where your money should go.
Pexels
Make a list of what you actually need
Impulse purchases are the enemy of smart shopping. Start by listing items you genuinely need or have been planning to buy. Maybe it’s a vacuum to replace the one that’s on its last leg, or a winter coat for the colder months ahead. Stick to your list when browsing sales to avoid getting sidetracked by flashy discounts on items you’ll barely use.
Take it a step further by researching these items in advance. Check their pre-Black Friday prices so you know if the deal is truly worth it when the big day arrives.
Avoid falling for the “deal” trap
Not every Black Friday deal is as good as it seems. Retailers are masters at creating a sense of scarcity and urgency, making you feel like you’re getting an unbeatable price. In reality, some items are marked up before being discounted, or their sale price isn’t significantly lower than usual.
Use price comparison tools like CamelCamelCamel or Honey to track the price history of items. This helps you spot genuine bargains and steer clear of deals that are more hype than savings.
Pexels
Wait before you buy
That 70% off smartwatch looks tempting, but do you really need it? A simple rule of thumb: if you didn’t plan to buy it before Black Friday, take a step back. Bookmark the item and give yourself 24 hours to decide. Chances are, the initial rush to “add to cart” will pass, and you’ll realize it’s something you can live without.
For big-ticket items, think about how they’ll fit into your life. Will that fancy kitchen gadget simplify your cooking routine, or will it collect dust on the counter? Thoughtful consideration is key to avoiding buyer’s remorse.
Shop with intention, not emotion
Retailers know how to pull at your heartstrings, especially during the holidays. A colourful “Limited Stock” banner or cheerful holiday music can make even the most disciplined shopper reach for their wallet. Recognize these marketing tactics for what they are and stay focused on your plan.
A great way to shop with intention is to ask yourself three questions before making a purchase:
- Do I need this?
- Can I afford this?
- Will I still love or use this in six months?
If you can’t confidently answer “yes” to all three, it’s probably not worth buying.
Pexels
Consider your long-term goals
That extra few hundred Rand spent on unnecessary items could go toward something meaningful—a weekend getaway, a savings fund, or even an investment in your personal growth. Keep your bigger financial goals in mind as you navigate the sales.
This doesn’t mean you have to deny yourself entirely. If you’ve saved up for Black Friday or spot something that aligns with your goals and budget, go for it! But balance is key.
Don’t forget to unsubscribe
Retailers flood inboxes with endless promotions leading up to Black Friday. While these emails can alert you to good deals, they’re also designed to tempt you into buying things you weren’t planning for. Unsubscribe from mailing lists or set up email filters to avoid being overwhelmed by these sales pitches.
ALSO SEE:
Featured Image: Pexels
