As Black Friday approaches, shoppers are being urged to plan ahead.
Like the Scout's motto goes, 'always be prepared' and that definitely transcends to shopping habits.
Black Friday can be an overwhelming day as prices are slashed and Christmas shoppers are quick to grab the bargains.
It isn't unusual for website to crash and over the years we have seen massive of queues form outside shops.
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So to take ease the stress of Black Friday shopping, NetVoucherCodes has suggested that shoppers remain resourceful when it comes to the Black Friday sales in order to save the vital pennies in the run-up to Christmas.
The November sales can be a stressful affair so experts are advising shoppers to go in with a plan in order to avoid disappointment.
From checking returns policies to making loyalty accounts in advance, there are plenty of ways to prepare for the Black Friday and Cyber Monday sales.
A spokesperson for NetVoucherCodes said: “Having a clear strategy in the run-up to these sales is crucial to get the best deals.
“Knowing what you want before the day can help reduce stress so making a list of not only the items you want but alternatives too can help ease any disappointment.
“Other simple tricks like signing up notifications on apps and joining loyalty schemes can allow for a smoother shopping process.”
Have a plan
By calculating what you want to buy, the price you want to buy it at, and where you want to get it from is essential if you want to avoid any stressful situations on the day. Setting a budget can help to control overspending, especially in the run-up to Christmas.
Resist impulse buys
Impulse buying on Black Friday can be a dangerous game, so creating a list of products to purchase prior to the sales can help to avoid any impulse purchases.
Use voucher sites
Some retailers will allow shoppers to use multiple discount codes at the checkout, so there is no harm in checking voucher websites for extra money off. Even if there aren’t any codes to use voucher sites may reveal exclusive deals only available through them.
Research the price
In the weeks leading up to Black Friday researching the price of items before the sales start can help to determine whether they are a good deal or not. Retailers can sometimes change the original price of products before big sales to make them appear to be a better deal.
Find alternatives
Finding alternatives to specific products can help stop any disappointment if any of them end up out of stock. Try to find two to three alternatives from different retailers to give you the best chance of getting your hands on it.
Use your phone wallet
When it comes to online shopping having a phone wallet primed and ready to go is essential when trying to grab the lightning deals. Setting up your payment methods before the big day can make the checkout process more efficient and can prevent any disappointment.
Some stores will only hold your items for a limited amount of time in the basket and sites are known for crashing due to an influx of customers.
Make accounts in advance
Many online retailers ask shoppers to create accounts in order to purchase products. Creating these accounts in advance can save precious time at the checkouts which is much needed when items start flying off of the virtual shelves.
Check the returns policy
Make sure to check the returns policy for any items bought both in-store and online. Most stores will offer you a full refund or exchange however, they’re not obliged to so it’s always best to check with the retailer before you buy.
Don’t forget Cyber Monday
Try not to be disheartened if you don’t get everything you want on the Friday- due to the popularity and marketing opportunities for companies, deals usually span the weekend and into Cyber Monday too.
Don’t spend on a debit card
When spending online try using a credit card or a trusted payment system like PayPal. This provides extra protection when shopping on the web especially on sites that may not be protected.
Check social media
A quick scroll of the Instagram, Twitter or Facebook feed can reveal some offers and discounts exclusive to social media users.
Brands will also provide the most accurate and up-to-date information regarding stock, opening times and even how busy their retail stores are.
Start early
Since the popularity of Black Friday has grown, many retailers now start their sales up to a week before. Keep an eye for bargains in the days leading up to Black Friday and Cyber Monday in order to not miss out.
Boots, Currys and Amazon already have started slashing prices on products that are perfect for Christmas or simply as a 'from me to me' gift.
