Black Friday Do’s & Don’ts

Do research pre-Black Friday prices and model numbers.

Some retailers inflate original prices to make a doorbuster look like a better value. Researching prices prior to the big sales event will help you decipher the real deals from the duds. What’s more, some brands manufacture products specifically for Black Friday and may be of lesser quality or missing key features. The model number is the biggest tipoff so review these and look for reviews. It’s important to know what you’re buying regardless of the dramatic savings because a low price on a lousy product is never a good deal.

Don’t miss out on extra savings.

Use your smartphone to compare prices instantly, stores like Walmart will offer a Black Friday ad match. Use the ShopSavvy App for instant in-store price comparison. Also, some retailers will offer extra discounts which you can find through CouponSherpa’s free mobile coupon app. Keep track of all your purchases and receipts using the OneReceipt App.

Do know what to buy and what to skip.

While there are plenty of good deals to take advantage of on Black Friday, there are some that you should pass on. See below for what to buy and what to skip.

• Buy Electronics: You’ll find lots of deals on gadgets like the popular GoPro Hero3+ with extra battery for $199 after instant $50 discount and $25 off Fitbit HR bundle at BJs warehouse club.  If you’re not a member, get a free 60-day membership through December 31 by printing your pass at www.bjs.com/savings.
• Buy Small Kitchen Appliances: Popular doorbuster, small kitchen appliances like toasters, slow cookers and blenders abound on Black Friday. For instance, you can score a $3 hand mixer at Kmart, regularly $9.99.
• Buy Sweaters: $14.99 Sweaters for him and her (reg. $42) JCPenney
• Skip winter coats, boots, jewelry and toys. These items are priced lower closer to the holiday. And, you can take advantage of Free Shipping Day on Dec. 18 for free shipping from hundreds of retailers and no minimum order with guaranteed delivery by Christmas Eve.

Don’t open a store card for that new card member discount.

While you may be tempted to open a store card for that extra discount, these cards carry high APRs and pricey late payment fees. Instead, look for a major credit card that offers cash back or travel rewards that you can use anywhere and redeem in different ways.