4 Genius Ways to Actually Save Money on Black Friday

Let’s be honest—Black Friday has become a bit of a circus.

It’s marketed as the biggest shopping day of the year, filled with “can’t-miss” deals and “once-in-a-lifetime” discounts. But somewhere between the midnight sales, the online countdown timers, and the “limited stock” warnings, it’s easy to get caught up and spend more than you planned.

Here’s the truth: Black Friday can save you a ton—if you’re smart about it.

So instead of falling for the hype, let’s talk about 4 genius ways to actually save money on Black Friday (not just spend it). These aren’t just “clip a coupon” tips. These are real, practical strategies that work even if you’re shopping online in your pajamas.

1. Go In With a Budget and a Battle Plan

Let’s be clear: wandering aimlessly through Black Friday sales is the fastest way to overspend.

You know the feeling—you hop on Amazon “just to look” and suddenly you’ve spent $250 on things you didn’t even know you wanted.

Here’s how to flip the script:

Make a Budget

Decide how much you’re willing to spend total—not just per item, but for the whole day or weekend.

Think about:

• Gifts (holiday or birthdays coming up?)
• Things you genuinely need (e.g., a new laptop)
• Treats for yourself (yes, you’re allowed those too!)

Set a number, and stick to it. Write it down, use an app, or put it in your Notes.

Make a Wishlist (Before the Sales Start)

Make a list of items you’re actually hoping to buy. Use a free wishlist tool like:

• Amazon’s “Wish List”
• Google Sheets (shareable with friends/family too)
• Tools like Honey or Rakuten that track price drops

This helps you shop with intention instead of reacting to flashy ads.

Rank Your Priorities

If your budget is $200 and you want a new vacuum, headphones, and winter boots—what’s #1?
Black Friday isn’t the time for “maybe” purchases. Get your #1 first, then see what’s left in your budget.

2. Use Price Tracking Tools (and Avoid Fake Discounts)

Here’s something a lot of retailers don’t want you to know: Some “Black Friday deals” aren’t really deals at all.

Many stores bump up prices in the weeks before, only to “slash” them back to normal on Black Friday.

So, how do you know what’s a real discount and what’s smoke and mirrors?

Use a Price Tracker

Price tracking tools show you the actual price history of an item so you can tell if the Black Friday price is a true bargain or just clever marketing.

Here are a few faves:

• CamelCamelCamel (Amazon price history)
• Keepa (Browser extension, shows price charts on Amazon pages)
• Honey (Shows price trends + applies coupons at checkout)
• Price.com (Tracks prices and compares across retailers)

Set Price Drop Alerts

Many of these tools let you set an alert for your target price. If it drops on Black Friday (or before), you’ll get a notification.

It’s like having a personal assistant whose job is just to save you money.

3. Stack Rewards, Coupons, and Cash Back Like a Pro

Want to turn a good deal into a great deal? Stack your savings.

Here’s what stacking looks like:

Let’s say you’re buying a $100 pair of headphones.

1. You find them on sale for $75 on Black Friday.
2. You apply a 10% off coupon code (brings it to $67.50).
3. You buy through Rakuten and get 5% cash back (another $3.38 saved).
4. You pay using a cash-back credit card that gives you 2% back ($1.35).

That’s $33+ saved total. Not bad, right?

Here’s what you’ll need in your savings toolbox:

1. Cashback Browser Extensions

These are plug-ins that automatically alert you if a site offers cash back.

• Rakuten (formerly Ebates)
• TopCashback
• Capital One Shopping

2. Coupon Finders

• Honey
• RetailMeNot
• Slickdeals (also great for finding promo codes before you check out)

3. Rewards Credit Cards

If you’re using a debit card for major purchases, you’re leaving money on the table.

• Use a cash-back credit card to earn rewards
• Some offer bonus points for shopping through their portals (e.g., Chase Ultimate Rewards)

Just remember: don’t overspend just to earn rewards. That’s like eating cake to get more frosting.

4. Shop Strategically (Timing is Everything)

Contrary to what ads tell you, the best deals aren’t always on Black Friday itself. Retailers often drop prices before and after the big day.

Here’s a strategic schedule to follow:

Thanksgiving Day

Many stores release their biggest deals online around 5PM–9PM on Thanksgiving.
So yes, you can snag deals from the couch with a slice of pie in hand.

Black Friday (Friday Morning)

Best for big-ticket items:

• TVs
• Laptops
• Kitchen appliances

But many of these sell out fast, so move early if you’ve got your eye on something specific.

Cyber Monday

Ideal for:

• Software & subscriptions
• Headphones & small electronics
• Clothing & accessories

Pro Tip: Some stores extend Cyber Monday into a “Cyber Week,” so don’t panic if you miss a deal.

Wait Until December (Sometimes)

For certain items—especially toys, games, and home decor—prices actually drop lower in early December when stores are trying to clear inventory.

If you can wait, you might save even more.

Bonus Tip: Don’t Buy Just Because It’s on Sale

Here’s the hard truth: a $100 coat that’s 40% off is still $60 out of your wallet if you didn’t need it.

Ask yourself:

• Would I buy this at full price?
• Will I actually use this in the next 30 days?
• Is this a want or a need?

If it’s not something you planned for or truly value, let it go. There will always be another sale.

Final Thoughts: Black Friday, the Smart Way

Black Friday doesn’t have to be chaos. It doesn’t have to empty your wallet or fill your home with regret buys.

With a bit of planning, some smart tech tools, and a little self-restraint, it can actually be a great time to:

• Save big on things you truly need
• Get ahead on holiday shopping
• Knock out your wish list for less

So this year, shop smart. Spend intentionally. And don’t fall for fake deals dressed up in flashing red banners.

You’ve got this. 

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