10 Top tips for Smart Christmas Gift Shopping on Black Friday

1. Know what you’re looking for

Keep a list of what you want and who it’s for. Stick to your plan, don’t get sidetracked by other promotions. Decide your budget in advance and resist the temptation to splurge.

2. Research

Check typical prices before Black Friday to spot a genuine discount. In the weeks before the sales, track a few key products. I use a Google spreadsheet to keep track of the products I’m looking to buy.

3. Be prepared

Set up online accounts in advance, save delivery and payment details, and bookmark favourite sites. You’ll move through checkout faster and are less likely to miss limited-time offers.

4. Bulk Buy

Unless there’s a big picture of Santa on whatever you’re buying, consider buying birthday presents for the year ahead, too. This is particularly useful for children with long wish lists that can’t be satisfied by Christmas alone.

Duplicate your shopping if a gift could be given to a friend as well as a relative. For example, beauty boxes from luxury beauty company LOOKFANTASTIC will likely have broad appeal. LOOKFANTASTIC

5. Consider all-in-one shopping

If you’re shopping across departments, such as clothing and tech, a one-stop retailer like Debenhams or budget-friendly Studio can save you time and money. Site-wide voucher codes are common and can reduce your total basket.

6. Compare

Convenience is great, but compare prices for big-ticket items. Use search engine shopping tabs to scan multiple retailers and don’t forget to factor in delivery before you decide. This is where your Google sheet may come in handy.

7. Be an early bird

You don’t have to wait for Black Friday. Sales often start early, although popular items can sell out. Join loyalty schemes and newsletters for early access. For example, Superdrug has offered member-only early deals. A Boots Advantage Card is free and can unlock extra offers and points.

Sign up for emails with Zavvi to hear about new releases and promotions on memorabilia, clothing, turntables, and vinyl.

8. Don’t forget your pet

Look out for pet deals on food, beds, and accessories. In previous years, there have been savings on luxury dog beds from Joules and animal vitamins from VioVet.

9. Double dip on discounts

Combine voucher codes with cashback or rewards where possible. Start scouting for codes at the stores you will most likely buy from.

10. Pay with a credit card

Pay by credit card for purchases of £100 or more. If a product is faulty or a retailer fails to deliver, your card provider could be held jointly responsible per Section 75 of the Consumer Credit Act.