Black Friday: How to Avoid Unnecessary Spending and Shop Smart

Black Friday is not just one day of sales, but an entire season of discounts that has become popular in both Russia and Belarus. In 2024, it falls on November 29, but many stores begin their promotions long before the official date. For shoppers, it's an opportunity to buy products at significant discounts, but it's important to be cautious not to overspend. In this article, we will explain how to properly prepare for Black Friday and avoid financial pitfalls.

1. Create a shopping list The first step to successful shopping is planning. Before diving into the frenzy for discounts, make a list of what you really need. Divide it into two sections: short-term and long-term purchases. For example, if winter is approaching, buy a winter jacket or warm boots. However, trendy sneakers or a summer outfit can be postponed until spring. This approach will help you avoid impulse purchases and focus only on necessary items.
2. Set a budget Creating a budget is an important part of preparing for the sale. To avoid a financial crisis, decide in advance how much you are willing to spend. Divide the amount into two parts: 80% onto your card, and keep the remaining 20% in cash to be able to make an offline purchase if a good deal comes up. Remember that the sale can last for several weeks, so don’t rush to spend all your money in the first few days. It's better to spread your purchases throughout the sale period.
3. Track price trends Don’t let marketing tricks confuse you. Sellers are required to show both the old and new prices of products. The price of the item before the sale should be the lowest of the last 30 days. If you notice that the price of an item suddenly increased a month before the sale, it could be a sign of dishonest practices. Use special services to track price changes over the last few weeks. This will help you determine how genuinely beneficial the discount is.
4. Check out the selection in advance To avoid wasting time on sale days, familiarize yourself with the store’s selection ahead of time. Visit offline stores or check websites to see what you really need. During Black Friday, stores are often overcrowded, and selecting a product can be difficult. Knowing the assortment in advance will help you stay focused and make purchases quickly.
5. Use secure payment methods When shopping online, always check that the website is secure (look for a lock icon and “https” in the address bar). For added security, it's preferable to use credit or virtual cards that are not linked to your main bank account. Do not save your card details on websites, even if it is offered as a convenience.
6. Use promo codes Promo codes are a great way to make your purchase even more affordable. During Black Friday, look for discount codes that can often be found on partner aggregator websites or social media. By applying a promo code, you can get an additional discount or a gift, making your purchase even more advantageous.
7. Beware of marketing tricks Stores often create the illusion of scarcity to make the product more appealing. Phrases like "only one left" or "this product is in 10 people's carts" are clever tactics designed to urge you to make a quick purchase. However, remember that this information is not always true. If you miss out on a product, don’t rush to buy a similar one — assess your purchases wisely and make decisions based on reason.
8. Make returns Don’t forget that you can return purchases if they are not right for you. If you bought something on sale but later realized that you don't need it, take advantage of the return policy. Just make sure to keep the receipt and not damage the item. This will help you get your money back and avoid unnecessary expenses.
9. Don’t take out loans for Black Friday One of the most common mistakes during sales is accepting loan and installment offers. Sellers may offer attractive credit terms, but these often come with hidden fees or interest rates that make the purchase less beneficial. It’s better to save up money in advance than to pay for an item with interest later. Remember, savings can only be achieved when the purchase is made with your own funds.

Black Friday: How to Choose the Right Store

Shopping conditions can vary significantly between stores. When choosing a platform for shopping, it’s important to consider the reputation of the seller. Pay attention to the presence of contact details, the return policy, and customer reviews. Reliable stores always provide complete information about their products and shopping terms. If you’re buying products online, make sure the site is secure and that the seller is registered in Belarus or another country where you are located. This will help you avoid fraud and save time and money.

Black Friday and Online Shopping

Every year, more people choose online shopping, and this is not surprising. After the pandemic, retailers began to focus on online sales, and Black Friday is a great time for online shopping deals. However, when shopping online, it’s important to be cautious: don’t trust only appealing banners and discounts, check prices and return conditions.

How to Avoid Fakes

It’s especially important to remember that a price that’s too low for an expensive item might signal a counterfeit. If something seems too good to be true, it probably isn’t. Therefore, before purchasing, clarify all details and verify the authenticity of the product, especially if it's a branded item or electronics.

Conclusion

Black Friday is not only a chance to buy the things you need at a discount, but also an opportunity to do so wisely. The key is to plan your purchases in advance, set a budget, avoid marketing tricks, and carefully check the products. By following these simple rules, you can take advantage of the sale without overspending and get the maximum benefit.