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Reducing your spending

Black Friday. Is it really a deal?

Black Friday signals the beginning of the festive shopping season. Many stores offer special deals and products, making them hard to resist. It is the season for cherished moments too. Even on Black Friday, we can focus on thoughtful gifts and what is not wrapped in paper.

Black Friday always falls on the fourth Friday in November, the day after American Thanksgiving.

Some stores extend their offers:


  • Through the weekend to Cyber Monday
  • Through the whole next week, called “Cyber Week”
  • Even through the whole November month

To make the most of Black Friday deals, follow our tips:

  1. Make a list
  2. Do your research
  3. Have a plan
  4. ‘Opt-in’ for marketing
  5. Stick to your budget
  6. Beware of scams

1. Make a list

Just like with a weekly food shop, having a list can help you keep on budget and make sure you only get what you need.

If you are shopping for gifts, make a list of:


  • Who you are buying for
  • What you want to give them
  • How much you can spend

If you are shopping for yourself, make a list of:


  • What you are looking for
  • What you want it to do
  • What you can afford

For example, if you are buying a new television, make sure you know:


  • What size you need
  • What features you want

Our guides help people:




 
  • Keep to fixed budgets while they deal with debt
  • Cope with the rising cost of living

We also give free debt advice. Get help now if you are struggling to pay bills or heat your home.

2. Do your research

Something can be a waste of money even if it is a bargain.

Before you buy, make sure you know why.

Who is this for?


  • Do they need it?
  • Will they like it?

Can you afford it?


  • Can you find it cheaper somewhere else?
  • Make sure you find the RRP (recommended retail price)
  • Without the original price, how do you know it is a real discount?

What are the reviews like?


  • Do people like it?
  • Does it offer value for money?
  • Remember: Some reviewers are paid to say things are good

Does it fit your needs?


  • Is it the right size?
  • Does it have the features you want?

3. Have a plan

Whether shopping online or heading to the high street, make sure you sort your priorities.

What do you really need?


  • Is it a need or a 'nice to have'?
  • If you need to buy gifts but also need a new fridge:
  • Buy the fridge first

What do you know will be in high demand?


  • If you are looking for the latest phone or game:
  • Get there early to avoid disappointment

Is something important for any other reason?


  • If your child has been begging for the same toy all year:
  • Make sure you have it before anything else

4. 'Opt-in' for marketing

You can make planning and research easier by:


  • Signing up to receive email marketing, or
  • Following retailers on Twitter, Facebook or Instagram

You can also get extra discounts when you shop online by:


  • Signing up for mailing lists
  • Using ‘first time’ discount codes
  • Finding online vouchers

5. Stick to your budget

The best deal is the one you can afford.

The truth is, Black Friday is not your only chance to find a bargain. Many stores have promotions right up to and even after Christmas.

Instead of splurging on a Black Friday ‘deal’, use the extra time to save more money and do some more research.

6. Beware of scams

Pay attention to the three 'W's:


  1. What you are buying
  2. Where it is coming from
  3. Who it is coming from

If you have not heard of an online retailer before, find customer reviews on Google before buying.

Do not risk your online security just to scoop a Black Friday deal.

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