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how to shop like a pro during As Black Friday and Cyber Monday approach, savvy shoppers are gearing up to take advantage of the best deals of the year.

how to shop like a pro during

Understanding the Importance of Black Friday and Cyber Monday

Despite the increasing number of sales offered by retailers throughout the summer and fall, Black Friday and Cyber Monday continue to reign as the most significant shopping days of the year. These events mark the unofficial start of the holiday shopping season, where consumers can find substantial discounts on a wide range of products, particularly in the tech sector. Retailers like Amazon, Walmart, Best Buy, and Target are known for their aggressive pricing strategies during this period, making it essential for shoppers to prepare adequately.

In recent years, the shopping landscape has evolved, with more consumers opting for online shopping over traditional in-store experiences. This shift has led to an increase in online deals and promotions, making it easier than ever to find great prices from the comfort of home. However, to maximize savings, shoppers should develop a strategic approach to navigating the myriad of offers available.

Creating Your Black Friday Game Plan

To ensure you don’t miss out on the best deals, it’s crucial to have a well-thought-out game plan. Here are several essential steps to consider:

1. Scout Early Sales

Many retailers are already rolling out early sales in anticipation of Black Friday and Cyber Monday. By keeping an eye on your favorite stores, you can take advantage of discounts before the main event. Retailers often provide sneak peeks of their Black Friday deals, allowing you to identify which items you want to target ahead of time.

2. Set Up Price-Tracking Tools

One of the most effective ways to find great deals is to utilize price-tracking tools. These tools can help you monitor price changes and alert you when an item drops to your desired price point. Below are some of the most popular options:

CamelCamelCamel: This tool tracks the price of every product sold on Amazon. Users can set alerts for specific price thresholds and receive notifications via email when prices drop. The Camelizer browser extension enhances this experience by providing price history graphs directly on Amazon product pages.
Keepa: Similar to CamelCamelCamel, Keepa offers price tracking for Amazon products. Users can view pricing trends and set alerts without needing to create an account. The browser extension automatically adds price history graphs to product listings, making it easy to analyze price fluctuations.
Slickdeals: This platform aggregates deals from across the internet, allowing users to browse coupons and create deal alerts based on specific keywords. Slickdeals also features a community-driven aspect, where users can share and discuss deals, enhancing the overall shopping experience.
Browser Extensions: Both Microsoft Edge and Google Chrome offer built-in features that notify users when they are viewing the best price for a product. These tools can track price changes across various retailers, making them a convenient option for shoppers.

3. Utilize Smart Assistants for Alerts

If you own an Alexa-compatible device, you can leverage its capabilities to receive alerts for specific products. By enabling deal notifications in the Alexa app, you can be informed of discounts on items in your shopping cart or wish list. This feature allows you to act quickly when deals become available, ensuring you don’t miss out on significant savings.

Planning for Retailer Schedules

Understanding the schedules of major retailers can significantly enhance your shopping strategy. Many retailers have already announced their plans for Black Friday and Cyber Monday, and being aware of these timelines can help you prepare effectively. Here are some key dates to keep in mind:

Walmart: Online shopping events will take place on November 14th and November 25th, with exclusive early access for Walmart Plus members. In-store events are scheduled for November 14th through the 16th, culminating in Black Friday on November 28th.
Target: Target is hosting a three-day shopping event from November 6th to November 8th, along with week-long promotions starting November 2nd. The retailer will also implement price matching through Christmas, providing additional savings opportunities.
Best Buy: Best Buy’s early Black Friday event kicks off on October 31st, with weekly doorbusters leading up to the main event. The extended Black Friday sale will run through November 29th, followed by a two-day Cyber Monday sale on November 30th and December 1st.

By marking these dates on your calendar, you can ensure that you are ready to shop as soon as deals go live.

Maximizing Savings with Lightning Deals and Doorbusters

Lightning deals and doorbusters are staples of Black Friday sales, often featuring limited-time offers that create a sense of urgency among shoppers. These deals can provide significant savings, but they require quick action to secure. Here are some tips for navigating these offers:

Stay Informed: Keep an eye on retailer ads and websites to identify lightning deals and doorbusters. These offers are often highlighted prominently, but it’s essential to read the fine print to understand any requirements or limitations.
Sign Up Early: Some retailers may require you to sign up for notifications or even get in line early to access certain deals. Being proactive can give you an edge over other shoppers.
Act Quickly: Lightning deals can sell out within minutes, so be prepared to make a purchase as soon as you receive an alert. Having your payment information saved can streamline the checkout process.

Having a Price-Matching Backup Plan

While many retailers offer price matching, it’s crucial to understand each store’s policy. Some may have specific guidelines or may temporarily suspend their price-matching policies during Black Friday and Cyber Monday. Familiarizing yourself with these policies can save you time and frustration if your preferred store runs out of stock. Consider reviewing a price-matching guide to understand the lengths each retailer will go to secure your business.

Trusting Expert Recommendations

As you navigate the complexities of Black Friday and Cyber Monday shopping, you don’t have to go it alone. Expert resources, such as The Verge, will be curating the best deals on tech and providing up-to-date coverage throughout the shopping events. Bookmarking reliable sources and subscribing to newsletters can keep you informed about new deals and help you avoid missing out on significant savings.

While many retailers will begin offering discounts in the days leading up to Black Friday, it’s essential to stay vigilant and monitor prices regularly. By following expert recommendations and utilizing the tools at your disposal, you can ensure that you are well-prepared to take advantage of the best deals available.

Final Thoughts

Black Friday and Cyber Monday present unparalleled opportunities for consumers to save on a wide array of products. By developing a strategic approach that includes early scouting, price tracking, and understanding retailer schedules, you can maximize your savings during this critical shopping period. Whether you prefer shopping online or in-store, being informed and prepared will enhance your overall experience and help you secure the best deals.

As the holiday season approaches, take the time to put together your shopping checklist, set up alerts, and keep an eye on your favorite retailers. With the right preparation, you can shop like a pro and make the most of Black Friday and Cyber Monday.

Source: Original report