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Hi, I’m Juhh!
Black Friday isn’t just a shopping day—it’s a whole experience. Preparing ahead of time can save you stress, money, and even help you score those dream items you’ve been eyeing all year. Whether you’re planning to shop in-store, online, or both, having a solid game plan makes all the difference. That’s why I put together this ultimate list of 100 things to do before Black Friday so you can feel confident, organized, and ready to snag the best deals without missing a beat.
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Get Organized and Create Your Plan
1. Set your overall Black Friday budget
Before diving into the sales, decide how much you’re willing to spend overall. This helps you avoid impulse buys and keeps your finances in check.
2. Create category-specific budgets
Break your spending into categories like clothing, electronics, and gifts. This ensures you prioritize the right items.
3. List out your must-have items
Make a detailed wishlist of everything you’re hoping to buy. This keeps you focused when the deals go live.
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4. Rank items by priority
Decide which items are “must-buy” versus “nice-to-have.” This way you don’t miss out on your most important finds.
5. Research average prices
Look up current prices for your wishlist items so you can recognize a true deal when you see one.
6. Check return policies in advance
Every retailer has different return rules during Black Friday. Knowing them saves you hassle later.
7. Download price-tracking apps
Apps like Honey or CamelCamelCamel can help you see if a deal is really the lowest price.
8. Follow favorite stores on social media
Many brands drop hints or early-access deals on Instagram or Twitter before Black Friday.
9. Sign up for email newsletters
Retailers often send exclusive early deals to subscribers. Get on those lists now.
10. Create a dedicated shopping email
Avoid inbox chaos by using a separate email for all your Black Friday alerts.
11. Map out store locations
If you’re shopping in person, know which stores are near each other to save time on the big day.
12. Decide if you’ll shop in-store, online, or both
This helps you tailor your strategy to your lifestyle and comfort level.
13. Research store opening hours
Some stores open as early as Thanksgiving night—don’t be caught off guard.
14. Check curbside pickup options
If you want to avoid crowds but still get items quickly, see if your stores offer this option.
15. Download store apps
Some of the best discounts are app-only, so install them ahead of time.
16. Enable push notifications for deals
Turn on notifications so you don’t miss flash sales.
17. Organize your payment methods
Have your credit cards, PayPal, or Apple Pay ready to go for faster checkout.
18. Set up autofill on your browser
Speed matters on Black Friday—autofill ensures you check out before items sell out.
19. Check your credit card rewards
Some cards offer extra cashback or perks for holiday shopping.
20. Save gift card balances
Load up any gift cards you’ve been holding onto—they’ll stretch your budget even further.
21. Create a master spreadsheet
Track prices, links, budgets, and wishlists in one organized place.
22. Share lists with friends or family
If others are shopping for the same deals, coordinating can help everyone get what they want.
23. Prepare a backup wishlist
If your first-choice item sells out, you’ll have alternative options ready.
24. Double-check product reviews
Make sure the deals are actually worth it—quality matters as much as price.
25. Test your Wi-Fi speed
For online shopping, a strong connection is essential when deals drop.
You’re just getting started! ✨
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