Black Friday is undoubtedly the busiest shopping day of the year. And this year is expected to be no different. It’s also the best time to score great deals across product categories, from electronics to apparel. But if one doesn’t plan or keep an eye out for common pitfalls, one could end up wasting money instead of saving it. Thus, to maximize savings this Black Friday 2023, one must avoid these ten common shopping mistakes.

Not planning ahead
Many shoppers make the mistake of not preparing in advance, which can lead to missed opportunities and disappointment. It’s best to make a list of the items to purchase, research the best deals, and create a budget to avoid overspending. By planning ahead, one will be able to easily navigate the chaos of Black Friday and maximize savings.

Overlooking small businesses
Don’t make the mistake of only focusing on the big-name retailers this Black Friday. Many smaller, local businesses and online stores offer fantastic deals that are often overlooked. Expand the search beyond the major players, and one will find hidden gems with unbeatable prices. Remember, the best deals can sometimes come from unexpected sources. Keep the options open and explore all avenues for maximum savings.

Relying too much on one retailer
Sticking to a favorite retailer on Black Friday can be tempting, but relying too much on one particular retailer can limit the savings. Remember, different stores offer different deals, and by exploring multiple retailers, shoppers can increase their chances of finding the best prices. Don’t hesitate to step outside the comfort zone and check out what other retailers have to offer. Keep your options open and cast a wide net to score the biggest discounts.

Falling for fake sales
When it comes to Black Friday, beware of falling for fake sales. Retailers often use deceptive tactics to make it seem like one’s getting a great deal when the reality is far from what is projected. Be cautious of inflated original prices, false discounts, and misleading advertising. Research and read reviews of the deals that will be bombarded ahead of the sale period. 

Not checking prices beforehand
To avoid overspending on Black Friday, always check prices beforehand. Research the regular prices of the items one wants to buy so one can spot any inflated discounts. By being prepared, one can get a genuine bargain and prevent falling for deceptive marketing tactics. Don’t let the shopping lead to regrets; do the homework and save money.

Going overboard with impulse buys
One of the biggest mistakes shoppers can make on Black Friday is going overboard with impulse purchases. With many enticing deals and limited-time offers swamped over the internet, it’s easy to get caught up in the excitement and purchase things one doesn’t need or want.

Before you hit the stores or add items to your online cart, make a list and stick to it. Stay focused on the items you’ve planned to purchase and avoid impulse buys that can quickly drain your bank account.

Ignoring return policies
Many shoppers tend to ignore return, refund, and exchange policies while shopping during sale time. This can turn the shopping spree into a complete waste of time and energy. In excitement, one may end up buying something that is not resourceful without being able to return or exchange it. Therefore, one must familiarize oneself with the return policies of every product before making a purchase. 

Shopping alone
While shopping alone on Black Friday can be liberating and give the freedom to make decisions without external influences, it can also be overwhelming. Without a shopping partner to bounce ideas off of or provide a second opinion, it’s easy to make impulsive purchases or miss out on great deals. Consider having a friend or family member along to make informed shopping decisions. 

Not utilizing cashback or rewards programs
Many retailers and marketplaces offer cashback and rewards programs to loyal customers. These programs can help one earn money back or receive discounts on certain purchases, ultimately maximizing savings.

Whether it’s through credit card rewards or online shopping platforms, sign up and utilize these programs to get the most bang for the buck.

Not being prepared for crowds and chaos
Long queues and crowded stores can make one’s shopping experience more stressful than enjoyable. To avoid this, plan a route in advance, arrive early, and have a game plan for each store you visit. Don’t forget to carry water and some snacks to re-energize during the process. Dress comfortably and be mentally prepared for the chaos. By being prepared, you can confidently navigate the crowds and make the most of your Black Friday shopping.