I have a confession to make.
Before you’ve started planning your Thanksgiving dinner, pulled out the Pumpkin Spice or thought about Halloween costumes & candy, we’re already thinking ahead to the holidays!
Each year, we spend countless hours finding deals, sharing offers & tracking prices so that we can help you save money during what is arguably, the most expensive time of the year.
From groceries to gifts to decor, you can count on SaveaLoonie.com to help you Sleigh The Holidays! While every family starts their celebrations at different times, Black Friday weekend is what we consider the kick-off to holiday shopping season.
It seems every year the Black Friday deals start earlier. You can expect to see “Pre-Black Friday” sales starting as early as the beginning on November and official sales starting as soon as a week before. Plus, you’ll likely find even more deals popping up from Black Friday through Cyber Monday.
It’s easy to get caught up in the craziness, but we’re here to help guide you through it with what you Should & Shouldn’t Buy on Black Friday.
Things You Should Buy On Black Friday
Small Appliances
If you’re in the market for a new small appliance for your kitchen, Black Friday is definitely the time to pick one up!
Retailers from Amazon to Canadian Tire to Walmart will have deep discounts on all of the gadgets you could want or need. If someone has a small appliance on their wishlist, now is the time to buy.
Watch for especially good discounts on Instant Pot products (they typically go as low as 50% off) and Air Fryers.
Headphones & Wireless Earbuds
These days, it’s not tough to find a great deal on a new pair of headphones or earbuds. But if you want to splurge on a top of the line pair, wait until Black Friday sales start. Over the last couple of years, we’ve noticed headphones & earbuds have taken a front row seat in stores’ BF flyers.
Chances are, you’ll find prices slashed to record low levels on Apple Air Pods, Bose, Sony at stores like Walmart & Best Buy.
Vacuums
The holiday season is always super busy, so who’s got time to do housework?! Invest in a robotic vacuum to do the work for you!
While it may not necessarily be high on the “wish list”, a vacuum is a necessity for most people and during Black Friday, you’ll be able to find amazing deals on basic to high-end robot vacuums.
If you’re in the market for a more traditional vacuum, you’re in luck! Amazon usually offers steep discount on stick vacuums as well.
Electric Toothbrush
Good oral hygiene is important all year long, but Black Friday is the best time to invest in a new electric toothbrush!
Expect to see discounts of 50% on quality electric toothbrushes from top brands include Oral-B and Philips Sonicare.
Even kids rechargeable toothbrushes are available at great deals during this time. Get one for yourself or give the gift of a great smile this holiday season!
Smart Home Devices
Haven’t delved into the world of Smart Home Technology yet? Now is the time!
Across all major retailers you can expect to find savings on all sorts of smart home devices, with “lowest price of the year” often found on Amazon Echo & Google Nest Speakers. Keep an eye out for bundle deals, such as a speaker + security camera or speaker + smart light bulbs or outlets, to start building your Smart Home.
Things You Should Not Buy on Black Friday
Clothing
Treating yourself to a few new outfits on Black Friday may seem like a good idea, but generally speaking, it’s not the best time to do so.
You can absolutely find great deals during this time, with retailers often offering 40-50% off over the weekend, but stores will be packed, dressing rooms full & sizing options limited. If you need something, grab it, but don’t make clothing your focus if you don’t have to.
Better time to buy: You will always find the best deals on clothing when you shop out-of-season. As retailers make room for next season’s latest fashions, you’ll be able to score bottom dollar deals on what’s currently in stock.
Doorcrasher TV’s
I know, it’s super tempting to get up at 3am and get in line at the store for that Door Buster 4K TV you saw on the front page of the flyer. But don’t.
Stores like Walmart, Best Buy and even Real Canadian Superstore will offer insane deals on Televisions during Black Friday. More often than not, these TVs are low-end and lack the video quality & functionality you may be hoping for. You can still find deals on higher quality TV’s during Black Friday, but they won’t be anywhere near the savings the “Front Page Specials” will offer.
Better time to buy: Late January / Early February. The week or 2 leading up to the Super Bowl, retailers offer the best deals on TV’s & home theatre equipment.
Furniture & Mattresses
Unless your kitchen table is missing a leg or you’ve got springs poking through your mattress, skip the Furniture store sales this Black Friday. Sure, there will be deals to be had, but they won’t be the lowest prices of the year.
Better time to buy: End of February or end of August.
Must-Have Holiday Wishlist Items
If there is an item that someone on your list absolutely MUST HAVE, don’t wait until Black Friday. This is especially true of the season’s top toys. With expected shipping delays & store shortages, there is a real risk you might miss out if you wait. There will be toy sales aplenty from mid-October right through until December where you should be able to find a pretty reasonable deal on that must-have item.
Better time to buy: Decide on a price you’re willing to spend on said item. Watch the sales & flyers leading up to the holidays and when it hits your target price, buy it. Don’t play the “but it might go lower” game.
