{"id":5150,"date":"2024-11-13T18:32:20","date_gmt":"2024-11-13T22:32:20","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/experience.syracuse.edu\/the-peel\/?p=5150"},"modified":"2024-11-14T10:42:03","modified_gmt":"2024-11-14T14:42:03","slug":"battle-of-the-holiday-sales-the-black-friday-and-cyber-monday-handbook","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/experience.syracuse.edu\/the-peel\/2024\/11\/13\/battle-of-the-holiday-sales-the-black-friday-and-cyber-monday-handbook\/","title":{"rendered":"Battle of the Holiday Sales: The Black Friday and Cyber Monday Handbook"},"content":{"rendered":"

Thanksgiving brings about the annual shopping frenzy that is Black Friday, followed closely by its online counterpart, Cyber Monday. Whether you\u2019re hoping to get some holiday shopping out of the way or just need a little retail therapy, be sure to take advantage of these short-lived deals.<\/p>\n

To ensure you make the most of these limited offers, I\u2019ve collected a few tips over the years that will take your shopper game to a whole new level.<\/p>\n

Tip #1: Make a List<\/h2>\n

In the overwhelming mass of deals, it\u2019s easy to fall victim to impulse shopping. I recommend making a list of your top must-finds. Before settling on it, have a clean-out day to verify you won\u2019t end up buying items similar to what you already own. Diving into the chaos with a plan will help assure you\u2019re able to get the items you really want rather than be stuck with a number of pointless purchases. Don\u2019t get me wrong, a couple of random add-ons is totally fine, as long as you don\u2019t break the bank.<\/p>\n

Tip #2: Prioritize Gift Shopping<\/h2>\n

With the holiday season approaching, gift-giving is top of mind. Tackling the search for the perfect present for a loved one can sometimes be difficult, not just for deciding what to get, but also finding something affordable. Let\u2019s be honest: college is expensive. Finding little ways to save money here and there can be a huge help. So, spending some extra time planning out holiday gifts before the post-Thanksgiving discount shopping spree can be worthwhile.<\/p>\n

Tip #3: Prepare for the Rush<\/h2>\n

Once you\u2019ve determined your list of essentials, you\u2019re already a step ahead of the crowd. But to have a true advantage, you need to take it a step further. If Cyber Monday is your holy grail, do some internet searching and fill your cart early so on the day of, all you have to do is hit \u201ccheck out.\u201d For those of you who crave the adrenaline rush of in-person Black Friday shopping, confirm which stores you\u2019re going to hit and what time they open so you can map out your day.<\/p>\n

Tip #4: Compare Sales<\/h2>\n

The abundance of discounts can be paralyzing, and you might be tempted to stick with the first one you find. However, spending the time to filter through all the deals to find the best<\/em> one can be very rewarding. But be sure not to settle for the better deal if it\u2019s not your top choice item. It\u2019s a balancing act of finding the better bang for your buck while also making sure you get the things you really<\/em> want.<\/p>\n

Check out some of the most popular stores that honor the holiday sales. Happy spending!<\/p>\n