Experts reveal how to get bang for your buck in Black Friday sales

Black Friday is just around the corner, which means bargain hunters will be compiling wishlists, scouring sales brochures and double-checking bank balances.

The sales event, which officially begins on November 29, has become Australia’s largest sales period, attracting even more shoppers than the Christmas season last year. According to NAB transaction data, Australians bought $8.7 billion worth of goods over the four days from Black Friday to Cyber Monday last year – $1.6 billion more than in 2022.

Black Friday sales can be tantalisingly tempting, but there are a few things to consider before adding to cart.Credit: Compiled by Michael Howard.

By now, Black Friday sales are seemingly everywhere, promising to slash the price of everything from washing machines to Lego sets. But while some deals are genuinely worthwhile, others may trigger buyer’s remorse.

So, how can you get bang for your buck this Black Friday?

How to score the best deal

For those hoping to make the most of Black Friday deals, research is key. Liam Kennedy, a journalist at consumer advocacy group Choice, says signing up to your favourite brands’ email newsletters, or following them on social media can keep you up to date on their upcoming sales and special offers (including VIP discounts and early-bird specials).

Prue Webb, co-founder of The Wardrobe Edit, says ample preparation will ensure you don’t get sucked into a dopamine-inducing buying frenzy on Black Friday. She recommends doing this online by adding your “must” items to your digital cart before the sale begins.

“That way, you’re purchasing in a really thoughtful way,” Webb says. “Wishlist and sales alert apps like Carted and price-comparison apps like Zyft are also good to use in the lead-up … Many people then enjoy the tangible nature of going to an actual store to purchase over Black Friday, especially if you need to try things on or check dimensions.”

However, marketing lecturer at the University of Sydney Dr Christina Anthony notes certain things are best bought online, particularly if the brand offers further in-app or desktop discounts.

“Nearly 50 per cent of Australians said they want to participate in Black Friday this year, with about 45 per cent of them doing so online,” she says. “If you’re buying discounted subscriptions to services, for example, there’s nothing better than doing that online.”

Whether shopping online or in person, Anthony suggests being wary of mass storewide sales. Usually, the larger the discounts, the more suspicious.

“Always read the fine print. It may say everything is 50 per cent off, but certain exclusions apply, or there may only be select sizes left. If the sale seems extreme, it’s probably because the items are poor quality and demand is low.”

Planning before Black Friday sales launch will ensure you don’t get swept up in a buying frenzy.Credit: Scott McNaughton

The best items to look for

Big ticket products are generally ideal Black Friday purchases, Anthony says, including white goods like refrigerators and pricier technology.

When buying a smartphone, Kennedy says it’s important to check the camera quality and battery life.

“Confirm with the retailer that any phone you’re considering supports all the available 4G and 5G bands for your network and local area.”

As for other devices like TVs, Kennedy suggests ensuring they’re compatible with other devices and outlets in your home. It’s also usually better to invest in mid-range and premium-priced TVs since they’re probably discounted at a higher rate.

Webb says Black Friday is a great time to buy timeless investment pieces for your wardrobe. “That means pieces that are going to see you through season after season, really quality pieces that will fill key gaps in your wardrobe.”

This includes blazers, trench coats, classic tees, quality handbags or shoes, sunglasses and jeans.

What to avoid

For many brands, Black Friday is a chance to shift old, excess inventory, Anthony says. It’s therefore essential to check the version or model of the item you’re interested in. “It might be cheaper but may not have the new features you need.”

The exception to this is fashion items, Webb notes, since most fashion retailers put current collections on sale during Black Friday. That’s why it’s often better to make the most of fashion sales before Boxing Day, which is when the older collections are usually discounted. However, no matter how good a deal seems, Webb says you should never compromise on fit and quality.

Bundles are popular during Black Friday, Anthony says. For example, a PlayStation may be sold alongside a game at a discounted rate. While this is great for gifting, Anthony says it’s important to consider whether you actually need both products, or whether you’re simply paying more because it seems like a good deal.

Finally, always check the terms of sale before buying. “There’s so much urgency around these sales, but make sure you look at the refund and exchange policies. Some heavily discounted items don’t allow returns. And if products aren’t the latest model, it may also affect the warranty period,” she says.

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