Black Friday weekend: How to spot a deal and not get ripped off
4 min read
As the Black Friday weekend continues, many shoppers rush to take advantage of the sales. However, it’s easy to get swept up in the excitement and end up spending more than intended, especially when the offers may not be as good as they seem. Consumer group Which? has warned that the majority of Black Friday deals are either the same price or even cheaper at other times of the year. To help you shop smart, experts have shared key tips for spotting real bargains and avoiding costly mistakes.
1. Stick to a List and Budget
Sarah Johnson, director of merchandise consultancy Flourish Retail, emphasizes the importance of having a clear plan before diving into Black Friday deals. “It’s only a deal if it’s something you genuinely wanted or needed before seeing the discount,” she advises. To avoid impulse purchases, she suggests creating a shopping list and setting a budget. “Use Black Friday to save on products you already planned to buy,” Johnson recommends. By sticking to your list and keeping within your budget, you maximize your savings and reduce the risk of overspending on items you don’t actually need.
2. Compare Prices and Check Historical Trends
Harry Rose, editor of Which? Magazine, suggests comparing prices across multiple retailers when considering a purchase. To make sure you’re getting a real deal, it’s helpful to check a product’s price history over the past 12 months. Websites and browser extensions can assist in tracking historical prices, so you’ll know if the deal truly represents a discount. According to Which?’s research last year, nine in 10 of the deals they analyzed were either the same price or cheaper at other times of the year. “Don’t feel pressured to splurge on Black Friday,” Rose says. “Deals like these often reappear, or are even better, later on.”
3. Consider Second-Hand Options
If you’re looking for a bargain, second-hand platforms might offer better deals than traditional Black Friday sales. Resale influencer Jess suggests checking these platforms for new or gently used items that could be significantly cheaper than buying brand-new. “If you make an offer and it’s reasonable, most sellers will accept,” she says. Vintage clothing expert Vivien Tang agrees, noting that second-hand platforms have become easier to navigate, with listings often showing the condition of items. Not only can you find great deals, but buying second-hand also supports sustainability.
In fact, a report from Retail Economics found that 63% of people would be comfortable receiving second-hand gifts, while another 26% were neutral about the idea. So, don’t rule out purchasing second-hand items for Christmas presents this year.
4. Beware of Debt and Interest
One of the biggest risks during Black Friday sales is the temptation to use credit cards or overdrafts to fund purchases. While it may feel like you’re saving money, high-interest rates can quickly negate any discounts. For example, if you make a £300 purchase on a credit card and pay it off at £20 per month, it could take over a year to pay off and cost you an additional £55 in interest. Overdrafts usually carry even higher interest rates.
Financial experts recommend paying off your credit card immediately from savings to avoid paying interest. Moreover, credit cards offer better protection for purchases over £100, making them a safer option if something goes wrong with your transaction.
5. Be Cautious of Scams
The excitement of Black Friday sales also attracts scammers who target unsuspecting shoppers. According to Lloyds Bank, purchase scams increased by 29% last year around Black Friday and Cyber Monday. These scams typically involve tricking shoppers into sending money via bank transfer for goods that don’t exist.
To avoid falling victim to scams, always buy from trusted retailers and use secure payment methods like credit cards. Fraud prevention experts suggest being wary of websites with strange URLs or new social media accounts promoting deals. If something seems “too good to be true,” it likely is. You can also use verified domain checkers to confirm the legitimacy of websites and avoid entering personal information on suspicious sites.
6. Spotting Fake Websites and Deals
Which? warns that scammers often create fake websites to lure shoppers with deals that seem too good to be true. Always double-check the web address to ensure it belongs to the official retailer before entering any financial information. Pay attention to the age of the website, as newly created sites may be a red flag. Additionally, beware of offers that seem too extreme, such as massive discounts on luxury items. If the price seems unbelievable, it’s likely a scam.
Conclusion
Black Friday can be a great opportunity to score genuine discounts, but only if you approach it with caution and preparation. By sticking to a budget, comparing prices, considering second-hand options, avoiding debt, and staying alert for scams, you can ensure that you’re truly getting a deal. Remember, not all Black Friday offers are what they seem, so it’s essential to shop smart to make the most of the event without getting ripped off.
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