Black Friday is one of the most anticipated shopping events of the year — and for good reason. From Amazon and Walmart to Best Buy and Target, major online stores slash prices on everything from electronics to fashion, home essentials, and more. But with thousands of deals flashing across your screen, how do you actually find the best ones without overspending?
In this guide, we’ll show you smart strategies to take advantage of Black Friday deals, save money, and make every dollar count.
1. Start Early and Plan Ahead
Don’t wait until Black Friday morning to start browsing. Most online stores now launch early Black Friday deals — sometimes two weeks before the actual date.
Here’s what you should do:
- Sign up for store newsletters from Amazon, Walmart, Target, and Best Buy to get early notifications of deals.
- Create a wishlist of items you need. This helps you track price drops and avoid impulse buying.
- Download store apps — some apps release exclusive early-access deals.
Pro Tip: Use tools like Honey, CamelCamelCamel, or Keepa to track product price histories before the sale begins.
2. Try Comparing Prices Across Multiple Stores
Don’t assume that the first deal you see is the best one. Many stores compete fiercely on Black Friday, so prices can vary widely.
Use these comparison tools:
- Google Shopping – Instantly compare prices across stores.
- PriceGrabber – Ideal for tech, electronics, and gadgets.
- ShopSavvy App – Scan barcodes and see where the same product costs less.
Example: That $300 tablet on Walmart might be $250 on Best Buy or come with free shipping on Amazon.
3. Stack Discounts: Coupons, Cashback, and Rewards Points
Want to save even more on top of sale prices? Combine discounts. This strategy — known as “stacking savings” — can help you stretch your budget.
Here’s how:
- Use store coupons or promo codes at checkout (check sites like RetailMeNot or Coupons.com).
- Activate cashback portals like Rakuten, TopCashback, or Swagbucks before making purchases.
- Redeem credit card reward points for extra discounts or cashback on Black Friday shopping.
Example: A $100 item with 20% off + 10% cashback + $10 rewards = $70 total cost!
4. Take Advantage of Free Shipping and Store Pickup
Shipping costs can quickly eat into your savings. Luckily, many major online stores offer free shipping or curbside pickup during the Black Friday season.
- Amazon Prime members get free 1–2 day shipping on millions of items.
- Walmart+ offers free delivery from your local store.
- Best Buy and Target allow free same-day store pickup for many products.
Tip: Add items to your cart early and check which ones qualify for free shipping before finalizing.
5. Shop During Cyber Monday for Online-Only Deals
If you miss a deal on Black Friday, don’t panic! Cyber Monday (the Monday after Black Friday) often brings even deeper discounts on online stores, especially for tech, electronics, and software subscriptions.
Combine Cyber Monday deals with cashback and coupon extensions for maximum savings.
6. Set a Budget and Stick to It
Black Friday is designed to make you spend more. Don’t fall into that trap.
Before you start shopping, set a strict budget and list what you truly need.
Ask yourself before checkout:
- “Would I buy this at full price?”
- “Is it something I’ll use long-term?”
Impulse buying defeats the purpose of saving — so shop smart, not fast.
7. Follow Deal Alerts and Communities
Join deal-hunting communities that post verified, real-time discounts before they disappear.
Top sites and communities:
- Slickdeals.net – Verified deals shared by real shoppers.
- Reddit r/Deals and r/BlackFriday – Great for finding hidden online bargains.
- Zero Cost Zone Blog – Your go-to spot for affordable shopping hacks and legit discount finds.
Smart Shoppers Save More
Black Friday 2025 is your chance to grab incredible deals — but only if you shop strategically.
By planning ahead, comparing prices, stacking discounts, and staying disciplined, you can save hundreds (even thousands!) on your holiday shopping without going broke.
Remember, it’s not about buying more — it’s about spending smarter.