Everything you need to know about Black Friday: Early deals, strategies and pitfalls to avoid

Black Friday has firmly found its place in Australia, bringing discounts right before the holiday season.

But with the rising cost of living, this year's shopping event feels a bit different - it's a chance not just for great deals, but also to get a head start on discounted presents for loved ones at Christmas time.

According to research from Afterpay's Festive Insights: Unwrapped report, shopping smart is a major trend in 2024, with 44 per cent of consumers choosing to pre-purchase Christmas gifts during Black Friday and Cyber Weekend sales.

The research also found that the most wanted gift this year among women is gift vouchers (28 per cent) or clothing, footwear and accessories (12 per cent), while men are hoping for electronics and tech (15 per cent) or travel and experiences (14 per cent).

In this guide, we'll share tips to help you make the most of Black Friday deals in Australia, from finding the best discounts to avoiding spending more than planned.

Black Friday is a major shopping event that originated in the United States and has since become a global phenomenon. Traditionally celebrated on the day after Thanksgiving, which falls on the fourth Thursday of November, Black Friday marks the beginning of the holiday shopping season.

On this day and throughout November, retailers offer massive discounts and promotions on a wide range of products, both in-store and online. It's considered one of the best times to score incredible deals on Christmas gifts, making it a highly anticipated event for shoppers looking to save big.

This popular shopping period offers a chance to score discounts on everything from electronics to fashion, making it perfect for crossing off Christmas lists and stocking up on essentials before the holiday rush.

The term "Black Friday" was first used in the 1960s in Philadelphia to describe the chaos and congestion that occurred on the day after Thanksgiving, when hordes of shoppers would flood into the city's shopping districts.

Over time, the term took on a different meaning, and it is now associated with the deep discounts and promotions that retailers offer on this day. The concept of Black Friday has since spread to other countries, including Australia, where it is now a major shopping event.

Black Friday falls on the last Friday of November every year. In 2024, Black Friday will take place on November 29th. The event typically starts on Friday and continues throughout the weekend, with some retailers offering early deals and extended sales periods. This gives shoppers ample opportunity to find the best deals and start their holiday shopping early.

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If you're new to Black Friday shopping, which marks the unofficial start of the Christmas shopping season with heavily discounted prices and limited-time promotions, the sheer volume of messaging around the sale period can be overwhelming.

However, with a bit of planning and a few handy tips, it's possible to make most of this pre-Christmas sale period. Below are some smart strategies to help you shop efficiently:

Start with a list of wanted items, such as a Christmas present for dads. Set a budget to keep your spending in check, ask the person for advice on what they'd like, and steer away from impulse purchases.

Many stores release Black Friday sale deals early, highlighting significant discounts and promotions available during the Black Friday shopping period, so check websites and catalogues in advance. Compare prices across different retailers and deal lists on our shopping and lifestyle articles to make sure you're finding the best discounts.

Apps and websites such as Amazon offer price tracking tools to monitor price history and set alerts for specific items.

Black Friday is known for substantial discounts on larger items like electronics, appliances and high-quality home goods. Focus on these items first, as they often sell out quickly.

While online shopping can be more convenient, it may be easier to shop for some items in store such as clothing, so you can get a proper feel for their quality and fit. Decide which items are worth visiting a store for and which you can buy online.

If a deal seems unrealistically cheap, it might be low-quality or an outdated model. Stick to known retailers and trusted brands, especially for expensive items.

Check for any extra fees like shipping costs, especially with online purchases. Spending a little extra to hit free shipping thresholds is fine - just make sure it's on something you actually need.

Make sure you understand the return policy for each item, as sale items can sometimes have stricter return conditions. This is particularly important for holiday gifts.

Black Friday has a significant impact on retail sales, with many retailers relying on the event to boost their sales figures. According to the National Retail Federation, Black Friday is one of the busiest shopping days of the year, with millions of shoppers flocking to stores and websites to take advantage of the deals on offer.

The event can also have a positive impact on the economy, with many retailers hiring extra staff and investing in marketing campaigns to promote their sales. This major shopping event not only benefits consumers with incredible deals but also supports the local retail industry in a big way.

In Australia, Black Friday has become more than just a shopping event - it's a unique opportunity to save on everything from Christmas presents to essentials for the holiday season and beyond.

By implementing a few smart tips and strategies, it's possible to make the most out of the sales without straying from budget - especially if this is important to you and your family this year.

When is Black Friday 2024?

Black Friday 2024 falls on November 29.

What is Black Friday?

Black Friday is an annual shopping event originating in the United States, typically held on the Friday after Thanksgiving, offering substantial discounts on various products and services.

What are some popular Black Friday deals?

Black Friday deals typically include discounts on electronics, appliances, clothing, home goods, toys, beauty and more.

How can I find the best Black Friday deals?

Compare prices across multiple retailers, check for online coupons and promo codes, and sign up for email lists to receive exclusive deals.

Is Black Friday only in the United States?

No, Black Friday is now celebrated in many countries worldwide, although the deals and discounts may vary.

What are some tips for shopping on Black Friday?

Plan ahead, make a list of desired items, set a budget, and be prepared for crowds, limited stock or shipping delays.

Is it safe to shop on Black Friday?

While Black Friday sales can be a great opportunity to save money, it's important to be aware of potential scams and take precautions against fraud.

What are some alternatives to shopping on Black Friday?

Consider supporting local businesses, shopping online on other days, or waiting for Boxing Day sales post-Christmas.