Don’t let Black Friday turn your bank balance red…

0
17

With so many great Black Friday deals already available, be safe and money smart with your shopping!

‘After the year we have had, it may be tempting to splurge on great deals, but it would be prudent to exercise caution during this month as the Black Friday specials pour in,’ says Susan Steward of Budget Insurance.

‘The key is remembering that the pandemic doesn’t hold back during sale time, that online shopping is the smarter way to go, that the ‘Black November’ trend means that there are great deals throughout November and that a good nose for a bargain and savvy spending will serve you well all year round.’

Budget Insurance offers the following tips:

  • Focus on what you need first: Create a list of things that you need to get or replace soon and prioritise those. Things that you want – luxuries – need to be second in line.
  • Set up a budget: Plan what you can afford to avoid being tempted into spending more than you have. The last thing you want is to go into December with debt and start the new year on a poor financial footing.
  • Stay safe: Black Friday in-stores might not be as busy as previous years, but if you do take the risk of shopping in person, make sure you stay safe by wearing a mask, keeping a safe distance from others and using hand sanitiser.
  • Shop online rather than in-store: If you can avoid going into stores, rather shop online and grab the same discounts from the comfort (and safety) of your own home.
  • Research, research, research: Don’t get taken in by the hype and don’t fall into the trap of believing that Black Friday itself is the only time to find a good deal. Do your research and compare were necessary to make sure you really are getting the best price. You can use sites such as pricecheck.co.za to do this.
  • Set up online accounts in advance: Go to the sites of retailers you are likely to buy from and set up your online account in advance. This will include filling in your details, setting up your preferred delivery address and receiving a log-in and password. Doing this ahead of time means you will be able to buy quickly when deals go live.
  • Be prepared to take a step back: Avoid getting swept up in grabbing every bargain you can get your hands on. If you’re feeling unsure about a purchase, take a moment to step away from the store or computer screen to think about whether you are making a wise buying decision.
  • Use those loyalty rewards: You may have some points, discounts or cashback offers due to you. Make sure to use these to your advantage.
  • Check return policies: Understand the return policies and fees and make sure you get a receipt.
Advertisement