Black Friday Prep: Start Saving Early

Black Friday is the Super Bowl of shopping, and like any big game, preparation is key. Start planning now to maximize your savings when the deals drop.

Create Your Wishlist Early

Start building your wishlist at least a month before Black Friday. This gives you time to:

• Research products and read reviews
• Track price history to recognize real deals
• Set realistic price targets
• Prioritize your must-have items

Sign Up for Deal Alerts

Subscribe to Scout and your favorite retailers' newsletters. Many stores send early access codes to subscribers, giving you a head start on the best deals.

Know the Schedule

Black Friday deals often start days in advance. Key dates to watch:

• Early Black Friday (starts mid-November)
• Black Friday (day after Thanksgiving)
• Small Business Saturday
• Cyber Monday
• Cyber Week (through December)

Set a Budget

The biggest mistake shoppers make is buying things they don't need just because they're on sale. Set a firm budget and stick to it.

Compare Prices

Not all Black Friday deals are created equal. Use price tracking tools to verify that you're getting a genuine discount. Some "deals" are actually regular prices with fake markups.

Use the Right Payment Methods

Some credit cards offer extra cashback during holiday shopping. Check if your cards have seasonal promotions and plan which one to use for each purchase.

Shop Early (or Late)

The best deals often sell out quickly, so shopping early in the day gives you the best selection. However, some retailers drop "doorbuster" deals late at night or very early morning.

Read the Fine Print

Pay attention to:

• Return policies (often different during holidays)
• Shipping cutoff dates
• Final sale items (no returns)
• Limited quantity warnings

Let Scout Do the Work

Scout will be curating the best Black Friday deals based on your preferences. Sign up now so you're ready when the sales begin!