Black Friday is just around the corner.
Many retailers put up extravagant deals on big ticket items to get the shoppers rolling in as early as possible. These unbelievable sales, door buster deals and the frantic feeling of Black Friday combined may have you spending way out of your budget without you even realizing it.
Here are some tips to make sure you use your super shopping day to the fullest and stick to your budget:
-Make a list and check it twice! Go through the circulars and make a list of what items you want to get and from where. Make a detailed itinerary of which shops you want to hit in which order, and what you will be purchasing from all. Set a budget that you want to spend. Leave a little extra room in your budget for items you may find to be great deals while shopping. This will also help you conserve gas!
-Too good to be true! Don’t get suckered in to money back or discount promotions. Many stores will offer store cash back or discounts if you spend a certain amount. That’s great if you hit that amount, but don’t go buying extra items just to make the cut!
-Beware of the gimmicks: Many stores may advertise things as being the lowest price of the season or make it seem like they are giving you a fabulous deal but you may not be getting as good as a deal as you think. Hold off on items that you aren’t too sure if the cost is that discounted and do you research on any items you are planning to purchase to make sure you are getting the most bang for your buck. If it’s a spur of the moment purchase you think is a fabulous deal, make sure you are getting the best deal by using a cost comparing app on your smart phone(ie: Red Laser).
-Keep the stress level down! Unless you are going for a specific item, consider waiting until the crowds die down. Of course, most stores will be busy all day regardless, but if you are just going for items you are sure won’t sell out, why wait on a line for two hours beforehand? You will feel less stressed, less frantic, and most likely, will make better purchasing decisions with a clearer head (and a full nights rest)!
-Be strategic! Consider taking your chances and waiting until ‘cyber Monday’ for the pre-holiday sales: Most retailers offer the same, and even better, deals online on the Monday following Thanksgiving. Most online retailers couple their offers with free shipping, making it almost silly to stand outside waiting online on black Friday.
If you follow these tips, keep a clear mind and a create a strict plan, you can utilize this super-savings day to the fullest and maybe even cut your holiday spending dramatically! Good luck and happy shopping!
Leslie H. Tayne, founder of The Law Offices of Leslie H. Tayne, P.C., assists consumers and individuals with the resolution of their unsecured debts. The firm's flexible and well established policies and procedures have helped thousands of individuals lead a debt-free life. For more information, call 1-914-301-3300 or visit www.attorney-newyork.com.
