Black Friday is one of the most anticipated shopping events of the year, offering massive discounts on everything from electronics to fashion. However, the excitement of grabbing a bargain can sometimes lead to overspending or purchasing items you don’t really need. If you’re shopping in the UK, here are some practical tips to help you save money and make the most of Black Friday deals.

1. Set a Budget and Stick to It

Before the Black Friday frenzy begins, decide how much you can afford to spend. Setting a budget ensures you don’t go overboard and end up with a hefty credit card bill. Use budgeting apps or a simple spreadsheet to track your spending.

Tip: Allocate specific amounts for different categories, such as gifts, home essentials, or personal treats, to avoid impulsive buying.

2. Make a Shopping List

Black Friday can be overwhelming, with retailers offering “unmissable” discounts on every corner. To stay focused, create a list of items you actually need or have been planning to buy. Prioritise these over impulse purchases.

Why it works: A list helps you avoid distractions and unnecessary expenses on items you didn’t plan for.

3. Research Prices in Advance

Retailers often hike up prices just before Black Friday to make discounts appear more significant. To ensure you’re getting a genuine deal, compare prices beforehand. Websites like PriceRunner, CamelCamelCamel (for Amazon products), and Idealo can help you track price changes over time.

Pro Tip: Bookmark products you’re interested in a few weeks before Black Friday and monitor their prices to spot true discounts.

4. Sign Up for Newsletters and Alerts

Many retailers offer exclusive discounts to subscribers. Sign up for newsletters from your favourite brands or stores to receive early notifications about sales and special offers. You might even get additional discount codes as a subscriber.

Bonus: Follow brands on social media for flash sales and promo codes.

5. Check for Cashback Offers

Cashback websites like TopCashback and Quidco allow you to earn a percentage of your spending back when shopping online. Pairing cashback with Black Friday deals can result in even greater savings.

How to maximise it: Use the cashback site’s browser extension to ensure you never miss an eligible deal.

6. Use Discount Codes

Before checking out, search for discount codes that could reduce your total further. Websites like VoucherCodes and Honey aggregate current promo codes for various retailers. Some retailers also offer app-exclusive discounts, so it’s worth downloading their app.

Tip: Try stacking codes (if allowed) for maximum savings.

7. Shop Early or Late

While the majority of deals launch on Black Friday itself, many UK retailers now start their sales early, sometimes even weeks in advance. Early shopping ensures better stock availability, while shopping late can sometimes lead to further markdowns as retailers try to clear remaining inventory.

Be cautious: Shopping late can be risky if stocks are limited or your desired items sell out.

8. Don’t Forget Cyber Monday

If you miss out on Black Friday deals, Cyber Monday offers another chance to snag bargains, especially on tech and electronics. In many cases, deals roll over from Black Friday, but it’s worth checking if additional discounts are applied.

Pro Tip: Keep an eye out for bundle deals on Cyber Monday that weren’t available earlier.

9. Avoid Unnecessary Purchases

Black Friday deals can make items you don’t need appear tempting. Before hitting “Buy,” ask yourself:

• Do I really need this?
• Will I use it regularly?
• Is this genuinely a good deal?

Avoid falling for flashy marketing tactics like “limited time only” or “while stocks last” if the product doesn’t meet your needs.

10. Use a Credit Card Wisely

If you’re making big purchases, consider using a credit card with perks like cashback or purchase protection. However, ensure you can pay off the balance promptly to avoid interest charges.

Conclusion: Shop Smarter, Not Harder

Black Friday is a fantastic opportunity to save money, but only if you approach it with a strategy. By setting a budget, doing your research, and using tools like cashback sites and discount codes, you can make the most of the sales without breaking the bank. Remember, the best deal isn’t always the biggest discount—it’s the purchase that fits your needs and budget.

Happy shopping, and may your Black Friday be filled with bargains worth celebrating!