Black Friday is no longer a single day of chaotic crowds. The sales now start weeks in advance, making it harder to distinguish genuine discounts from marketing tricks. Despite this, significant savings are still possible with the right strategy. Here’s how to navigate the early sales and ensure you’re getting the best possible deals this year.
When Do Black Friday Sales Begin?
The reality is that Black Friday sales have already begun. Amazon, Walmart, and Best Buy are rolling out discounts throughout November, blurring the lines between pre-Black Friday and actual Black Friday deals. Many retailers will kick off major sales a full week before Thanksgiving, with others starting even earlier.
- Amazon: Expect sales to ramp up significantly by November 20th.
- Walmart: Two major sales events are planned for November 14th and 28th, alongside a separate Cyber Monday push.
- Best Buy: A month-long Black Friday event has already begun, with weekly “doorbusters” leading up to the main event on November 29th.
For a comprehensive list of retailer announcements, BlackFriday.com provides updates.
How to Maximize Savings: Avoiding Inflated Discounts
Retailers sometimes artificially inflate prices weeks before Black Friday, only to “discount” them back to normal levels. This creates the illusion of a better deal. To avoid falling for these tactics, use price tracking tools and be vigilant.
Essential Price Trackers
These tools allow you to see historical price data, ensuring the “discount” is genuine:
- CamelCamelCamel: Tracks Amazon price history with a simple link-and-paste interface.
- AisleGopher: Specializes in Walmart price tracking, though it may not support all third-party sellers.
- Keepa: Offers Amazon price tracking with a convenient Chrome extension that displays price history directly on product pages.
Leveraging Coupons for Extra Savings
Don’t overlook coupons, which can stack with Black Friday discounts. Check for:
- Annual Digital Services: Many streaming, VPN, and gaming services offer discounts for annual subscriptions. Look for additional coupons to maximize savings.
- Amazon Coupons: Check below product prices for clickable coupons that aren’t always captured by price trackers.
- RetailMeNot: A dedicated coupon site that frequently lists hidden discounts applicable during Black Friday.
Price Matching: Proceed with Caution
Price matching sounds ideal, but retailers often have strict exclusions, especially during peak sales. Expect limitations and verify policies before relying on it.
Bottom line: Black Friday 2024 requires preparation and vigilance. Use price trackers, check for coupons, and be skeptical of inflated discounts. By being proactive, you can secure genuine savings amid the noise.
