With the biggest shopping day of the year just around the corner, it's critical that you have the definitive Black Friday Survival Guide. Here at IWOOT UK, we are no strangers to the mayhem that can erupt on the big day, and don't forget about Cyber Monday! Given that we've been there (and made our fair share of rookie blunders), we felt it would be wise to compile our suggestions for making the most of the big day. So, get ready with these top tips to make the most of Black Friday, whether you're a seasoned deal hunter or a newcomer wanting to grab some fantastic deals ahead of the Christmas rush!
Black Friday Survival Guide
Although everyone has their own methods to the madness, we think we've got some pretty solid recommendations to help you get more bang for your buck and take some of the stress out of Black Friday, whether you're spending it at home scouring the web for deals or braving the high street in the hope of those massive discounts.
Want to be sure you don't miss out on IWOOT's excellent bargains throughout the day? Sign up for our Black Friday email alerts here.
Tip 1) Rest the Night Before
Loads of retailers start offering deals around midnight on Black Friday. To make the most of it and avoid missing out, get enough rest the night before, so you're feeling refreshed and have your wits about you when those bargains go live. Many places may wait until the early hours of the morning before coming up with some of their larger bargains, so be sure you set your alarms so you don't sleep through them!
If you have a history of mistakenly turning off your phone, see below for some great alarm clocks that will make sleeping in on this and any other major day difficult. Yes, we understand that getting up early may not appear to be a big deal, but believe us when we say you don't want to miss out on these discounts.
Tip 2) Stay Fuelled Up
Nothing is worse than shopping exhaustion! Make sure to stock up on sweets and caffeinated drinks so you can shop till you drop. We recommend large amounts of coffee; sweets; biscuits; cakes; and anything else that will provide you with that all-important pick-me-up to get you through the day. Are you running low on sugary treats? Look no further for a plethora of quick and delectable snacks right here.
And while we're on the subject of food and drink, make sure you honour those wonderful bargains you've been able to get your hands on with some truly creative barware to really make it a celebration, because trust us, you'll need a drink after that weekend!
Tip 3) Don’t Be Scared To Shop Around
Have you come across a deal that you simply can't pass up? It's always worth looking around to see if you can get a better deal. Big brands will always have some significant savings going on, and you never know what wonderful deals you might find. So, keep your ear to the ground to ensure you get the greatest bargain possible.
If your pals are like you, make this a covert group mission; the more websites covered, the more money everyone can save, and who knows, you could just have helped acquire that present you really wanted.
Tip 4) Plan Ahead
Are you going to use the day to start your Christmas shopping? fantastic idea! Make a list of everyone you'll be shopping for this year, as well as anything you think you'll be able to score a good deal on for Black Friday. Even better, create a broad estimate of how much you want to spend on each individual; you don't need to spend a lot in any case, but if you get carried away like we do, we'll tell you the truth, we wish we'd known sooner: you don't need to go over the top for your neighbour!
Proper planning before the big day will ensure that you are laser-focused on all of the important products you require before venturing out to check out some other fantastic deals (pssssttt we’ve got loads of them!).
Tip 5) HAVE FUN!
While it may appear to be a difficult experience, adequate planning and preparation will ensure that you are ready for Black Friday and all the craziness it might bring. You don't have to ruin your last weekend before December just because you've seen the ads and heard the rumours of the chaos that might come. You must remember to enjoy the day and to think about all of the wonderful savings you will make!
We can even provide some fun to keep you entertained while you wait for that circle in the middle of the screen to show payment has been approved or if the website is closed till a particular hour on this big day. Perhaps some music to keep you happy while you wait, which will necessitate the use of a speaker, or if you are working as a team to get the best deals possible, there are lots of party games to keep this presumably early morning and late evening more pleasurable.
Tip 6) Spare A Thought for Those Working Black Friday
Whether online or in-store, a lot of people will be working extremely hard behind the scenes to ensure that Black Friday is a tremendous success. While you're out getting those last-minute discounts, remember to thank everyone who helped make this happen (looking at you Team IWOOT!).
