*This article contains affiliate links*

As Christmas edges closer, so does the frenzy of shopping and gift buying. For savvy shoppers, Black Friday is the ultimate opportunity to tick off those Christmas lists without draining your bank account. However, with so many ‘deals’ on offer, how can you be sure you’re saving big and not falling for those £3.50 savings that hardly make a dent?

Here’s your guide to using Black Friday deals to save money for Christmas, while avoiding the false bargains.

1. Do Your Research in Advance

To ensure you’re getting a genuine deal, it’s important to research in advance. Make a list of the items you need for Christmas—whether it’s gifts, decorations, or even food—and check their prices well before Black Friday. Many retailers inflate prices before dropping them for a ‘sale,’ so tracking the original prices can help you spot a real bargain. Use price comparison sites to see if what you’re eyeing has been available cheaper at any point during the year.

2. Set a Budget and Stick to It

It’s easy to get swept up in the excitement of Black Friday, especially when there are flashing signs promising ‘70% off!’ However, if you’re not careful, you could end up spending more than you intended. Setting a budget before you start shopping ensures you don’t blow your Christmas budget on impulse purchases that aren’t really necessary.

3. Look for High-Value Discounts

It’s tempting to grab a deal just because it has the Black Friday label, but some ‘discounts’ are barely worth the click. Avoid falling for sales that offer negligible savings like £3.50 off. The key is to find high-value discounts—think 40-50% off or more on items you truly need or have been planning to buy. Electronics, toys, and fashion often come with significant discounts, so target these categories if they’re on your Christmas list.

4. Compare Prices Between Retailers

Before hitting ‘buy,’ take a moment to check other retailers. Many shops will offer similar deals during Black Friday, but you might find that one store offers a better price, free delivery, or a bundled offer. Some apps and browser extensions, like Honey or CamelCamelCamel, allow you to instantly compare prices across multiple sites and track the price history of items.

5. Sign Up for Newsletters and Loyalty Programs

Many retailers offer exclusive Black Friday deals to newsletter subscribers or members of their loyalty programs. This is a great way to get access to early deals and extra discounts. Keep an eye on your inbox for early access codes and secret sales—sometimes the best bargains are never advertised to the general public.

6. Don’t Forget About Cashback Sites

Using cashback sites like TopCashback or Quidco is an easy way to get a little extra back on your purchases. These sites partner with many big-name retailers, allowing you to earn cashback on everything from tech gadgets to Christmas hampers. While it might not seem like a huge saving at first, it can add up quickly, especially if you’re doing a large portion of your Christmas shopping in one go.

7. Shop Early for the Best Deals

Black Friday deals now often start weeks in advance, with some retailers offering ‘pre-Black Friday’ or ‘Black Friday Week’ discounts. Shopping early means you can avoid the last-minute rush and ensure you get the best selection of items. Plus, some of the top deals can sell out quickly, leaving you scrambling for second-best options later on.

8. Check the Return Policy

It’s important to remember that not every deal is a great one, and some purchases might not meet your expectations once they arrive. Make sure to check the return policy on Black Friday items—some stores have stricter rules for discounted items, and you don’t want to be stuck with a purchase that can’t be returned or exchanged.

9. Avoid Shipping Costs

When looking for Black Friday deals, don’t forget to factor in delivery charges. Sometimes a bargain isn’t so much of a bargain when you add in shipping fees. Check if the retailer offers free delivery on orders over a certain amount or if you can opt for in-store collection to save on these extra costs.

10. Make the Most of Flash Sales

Many retailers offer flash sales during Black Friday weekend, where prices drop for a limited time. These deals often provide the biggest savings but require quick action. If you’ve done your research and know what you’re looking for, you’ll be in a better position to jump on these flash deals before they disappear.

Final Thoughts

Black Friday can be a fantastic opportunity to save money on your Christmas shopping, but only if you shop smart. By preparing ahead, comparing prices, and seeking out the high-value deals, you can avoid the disappointment of tiny savings and make this festive season more affordable.

Happy bargain hunting—and here’s to a budget-friendly Christmas!