7 Tips for Responsible Black Friday Shopping

By now, most of the major store Black Friday ads have leaked. So, what should you do next? We've listed 7 tips and strategies for smart and responsible Black Friday shopping.

 

1. make a list of the items that you think you may need or would like to buy. For even better results, do this first without looking at the Black Friday ads so you don't get suckered into a deal.

 

2. If you typically buy gifts for family and friends, decide on what to buy them now. Making a last minute buying decision, especially after Black Friday, could result in higher costs or unnecessary shipping and rush delivery fees.

 

3. it's time to look at the ads and compare. Research your prospective purchases online and understand the items before you buy. Often, Black Friday products are priced low because stores are trying to get rid of excess inventory or discontinued models.

 

4. If you have to go into credit card debt to make your online purchases, is a mail-in rebate really your best option? You'll hopefully eventually get the rebate cash you deserve, but the credit card interest you rack up in the meantime may negate those savings. It may be worth it to pay a bit more and not worry about rebates. Some stores like Best Buy have foregone rebates altogether. Good for them.

 

5. If you still are convinced that using a rebate is your best deal, be sure to plan on taking the rebate money and putting it back where you took it from, i.e. your credit card, savings account, etc. Counting on a rebate check to pay your electric bill is not a good financial decision.

 

6. If you go to a store to get a deal, stick to your list. Don't fall for other promotions without researching them first. Those other deals may not be as smart for your wallet.

 

7. Finally, remember that many Black Friday deals are not deals at all. They may be a good price for a retail store, but many items are often cheaper online. As Cyber Monday approaches, we'll have a better idea of where to get the best deals, both offline and online.