The holiday shopping season is upon us, and with it comes a wave of sales events—Black Friday, Cyber Monday, Prime Tuesday, Orange Soda Fountain Day and the list goes on (the last one was a joke). 

Here are some tips to help you maximize savings during Black Friday so you can stick to your financial goals, and make the most of these holiday sales:

1. Make a List and Set a Budget

These events can offer huge savings opportunities, however, they can also lead to overspending and impulse buys if you’re not prepared. We always advise our clients to make a list and check it twice. It’s so easy to get caught in the moment. That’s why it’s essential to go in with a solid strategy based on what you can actually afford vs what you need. 

It’s easy to get swept up in discounts, so start by creating a list of what you actually need and set a realistic budget for your purchases. This not only curbs impulse buys but also keeps your spending intentional, focusing only on items you’ve planned to buy.

2. Research Prices in Advance

Before the big sales hit, spend a bit of time researching prices. Compare costs across retailers and take note of price trends to identify true discounts. Many stores offer “price matching,” so if you spot a great deal but prefer shopping at a particular retailer, you may still be able to snag the price.

3. Sign Up for Newsletters and Loyalty Programs

Retailers often send exclusive offers and early access to sales to their newsletter subscribers and loyalty program members. Sign up a few weeks before the sale season begins to catch any pre-sale deals. Many stores also offer points or cash back through their loyalty programs, which can boost your savings further. 

4. Take Advantage of Early Black Friday Deals

Many retailers start offering Black Friday deals weeks in advance. If you find a great price early, don’t hesitate to buy—the item could sell out by Black Friday. Plus, many stores offer price adjustments, meaning you may get a refund for the difference if the price drops even further during the main event.

5. Check Store Policies on Returns and Price Matching

Before you buy, make sure you’re aware of the store’s return policies. This is critical; we just had a client spend $2000 at a store she thought she could return to, but only offered store credit. Some retailers may not accept returns on discounted items, while others may allow returns but charge a restocking fee. It’s also wise to ask about price-matching policies, especially if you’re shopping online, to avoid paying more than you need.

6. Shop Online for the Best Cyber Monday Deals

Many retailers reserve their best tech deals for Cyber Monday. If you’re planning to buy electronics, appliances, or gadgets, keep your eye on deals offered exclusively online. Cyber Monday is often the best time for these purchases since tech-focused stores often offer deeper discounts.

7. Avoid the Pressure to Buy Now, Regret Later

It’s easy to get caught up in sales pressure, but remember that not every discount is a must-buy. If something isn’t on your original list or within your budget, it’s okay to pass on the deal. There will be other opportunities, and it’s better to invest in items that add real value to your life.

Reach out on Instagram and us know which tip you're going to use this holiday shopping season!