Are you prepared for Black Friday?

The most anticipated event on the shopping calendar is here: Black Friday! Ready, steady… slow down. Before you rush off to the shops, it’s important to remember to consider your budget and that a number of things have changed since last year, such as the need for social distancing.

Let’s explore a few things you can do to bag the best deals and stay on budget, and safe.

Set your budget

It’s hard to resist Black Friday specials, but your wallet will thank you for preparing. Before you start browsing for items you’d like to purchase, know what you can afford. Create a budget based on what you can afford to spend and put that money into a savings account so that you don’t touch it until Black Friday. This will ensure you have the money you need and don’t take on more debt to make your purchases. If you are unsure about whether to buy an item or not, leave it in your shopping cart or wish list for a few days leading up to Black Friday to decide whether you really need or want it.

Make a wish list

Items fly off the shelves on Black Friday, so it’s important to know what you want to buy before it kicks off. Make a list of all the things you need or want so that you can easily search for or click on the items you want to purchase. You can either do this with a list on your phone’s memo pad or on apps like Google Keep or Evernote. Alternatively, you can create a wish list on online shopping sites like Takealot and Superbalist, or on their apps. Remember to create accounts for e-commerce sites like these before you shop so that you don’t have to waste time setting them up. You could also make a list on a piece of paper and stick it on your fridge as a gentle reminder.

Do your research

Once you have an idea of the kind of items you want to buy, it’s time to choose outlets to purchase them from. If your list mainly includes tech items such as headphones, computers and TVs, a good online option would be Takealot. If you intend to buy shoes or clothing, it would be a good idea to check out the brands’ websites or visit retailers that stock them to learn more about their upcoming Black Friday specials. This will help you decide where you’ll be purchasing your items.

Have a safety plan

Black Friday discounts are tempting, but if possible, try to do all your shopping online. If you choose to venture out, here are some ways to stay safe:

• Always wear a mask in public settings.
• Stay at least 1–2m away from others when standing in a queue.
• Bring your own shopping bags if possible.
• Keep your list handy so that you can minimise time spent in the mall or store.
• If possible, use touchless payment options such as tapping your card. If you touch any communal items, for example a keypad or pen, sanitise your hands with a sanitiser with at least 60% alcohol immediately afterwards.

And remember, stay at home if you are sick to protect others.

Start shopping early
Whether you’re doing online shopping or heading to the mall, the earlier you start, the more likely you are to get the best deals. And if you’re going to shop in-store, there’ll be fewer people too. Look out for deals before Black Friday as most stores offer discounts leading up to the day. You should also watch out for sales like Cyber Monday, which happen on the first Monday after Black Friday. This could possibly save you from getting caught up in the madness during the peak of the shopping frenzy, and you’re also more likely to get stock of the items you want.

Keep your eyes peeled for deals

Once you know the stores or e-commerce platforms you’ll be purchasing from, follow them on social media or sign up to receive their newsletters and stay on top of any news about upcoming deals. The best deals, including tips for Black Friday, are usually posted on social media. Best of all, giveaways and voucher competitions are also popular on social media platforms such as Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.