When you’re ready to create holiday magic for everyone in your life (moms, you’re the MVP all year long, but especially during the holidays!), strategically tackling your shopping list can feel pretty daunting. Black Friday has become a behemoth, encompassing not just Cyber Monday but extended deals that start early and last into the new year.
So, let’s be honest: What’s the best shopping day of the year? When it comes to starting a list and checking it twice, I spoke with some pros to get their insights.
So, what’s the verdict?
It turns out there’s no one-size-fits-all answer here. But that’s not necessarily a bad thing, explains Kandi Arrington, executive vice president of customer development and retail consulting at Mars United Commerce.
“The truly best shopping day of the year depends on what you’re looking for and when you have the time to sit down and plan your needs,” she shares.
Many retailers (hi, Walmart!) have already started rolling out Black Friday deals, but as Arrington said, “waiting for the best prices can also result in missing out on inventory. I expect the pre-Black Friday sales to be mixed with the day’s sales.” Just as compelling.
Arrington credits this year’s Thanksgiving holiday, Nov. 29, to her premonition. That means Black Friday is November 30, while Cyber Monday isn’t until December 2, potentially giving shoppers the greatest opportunity for deep discounts. “If retailers still have a lot of inventory on hand, you may see increased discounts to clear inventory without being left stranded in the new year.”
Smarty founder and consumer expert Vipin Porwal agrees, noting that by the first two weeks of December, shoppers may even see pretty good deals, which means if something unexpected happens in your life and you miss out With this opportunity, you don’t need to worry about limited time offers.
For those of you who are really, really in no rush (or if trying to juggle everything on your plate prevents you from completing your entire shopping list before the big day), waiting until after Christmas might bring the sweetest deal of all .
Destiny Chatman, consumer expert at TopCashback.com, said: “Although post-Christmas sales are sometimes overlooked, they can be a great option for customers who don’t mind waiting and want a more leisurely shopping experience. They offer great deals on seasonal items.
“Cyber Monday is perfect for online shoppers looking for convenience and extra savings, while Black Friday offers tons of in-store discounts for those who enjoy the thrill of shopping in-store,” said Chatman. For a lot of people who suffer from seasonal chaos, let’s face it.
What do we know about the 2024 Black Friday sales and deals? Will it be any different compared to previous years?
Overall, Arrington suspects the sales will be similar — think popular tech, appliances, kitchenware and clothing — but she said, “Because of the later timing of Black Friday, I expect the early sales to be almost as retail-focused. Merchants are trying to entice shoppers to buy as early as possible to reduce shipping stress and better understand how they’re doing this holiday season.
Pro tip: Don’t count on killer deal opportunities on items you might not expect to get heavily discounted.
“While most consumers generally believe that Black Friday will be focused on buying electronics, toys, and apparel, major retailers will be offering discounts across the board in a variety of categories, including home goods, tools and automobiles, office supplies, furniture, health products and more. “As in previous years, there will be early sales, but most of the major Black Friday sales will begin on Thanksgiving Day, with dozens of stores opening and similar (if not matching) online sales. will respond accordingly.”
In fact, there’s a good chance you can take advantage of some deals before you start preparing your Thanksgiving dinner. Chatman noted that Walmart, for example, has started Black Friday sales. “The goal of releasing these deals super early is to grab the attention of holiday shoppers and give them time to prepare and buy what they want,” she said.
But when it comes to which of the most popular holiday shopping days — Black Friday, Cyber Monday or the day after Christmas — is best, Chatman reiterated, “Ultimately, your buying preferences and what you want to buy will Decide which option is best for you.
