Five Essential Steps to Prepare for Black Friday Shopping

Black Friday, scheduled for November 28, 2025, is approaching, and shoppers are gearing up for one of the biggest retail events of the year. With early sales already starting at major retailers like Walmart, Best Buy, and Target, now is the ideal time to streamline your holiday shopping process. By following five straightforward steps, consumers can enhance their shopping experience and maximize savings this season.

1. Update Payment Information for Seamless Shopping

Before diving into the deals, ensure your payment options are accurate and up to date. Check the card information saved in retailer accounts, including Amazon and Nordstrom, as well as digital wallets like Apple Pay and Google Pay. Confirm your shipping and billing addresses, and if you plan to use a new card exclusively for holiday purchases, add it now. This preparation will make checkout smoother, especially for mobile shopping, and will set you up for Cyber Monday on December 1.

2. Create a Shopping-Only Email Account

One effective way to manage holiday shopping is to set up a dedicated email account for all retail communications. This can be done easily and at no cost. By using a specific email for shopping, you can keep your personal inbox clutter-free and have all purchase receipts, order confirmations, and promotional offers in one place. This strategy not only simplifies tracking your holiday purchases but also helps you access first-time purchase discounts without overwhelming your primary email with marketing messages.

3. Utilize Gift Cards and Trade-In Old Devices

Many shoppers overlook unused gift cards, which can provide significant savings during the holiday season. Take stock of any gift cards you may have and plan how to use them effectively, checking for expiration dates if applicable. Retailers like Target and Amazon allow you to add physical gift cards to your online account, making them easier to access during your shopping spree.

Additionally, consider trading in old tech devices for credits. Companies like Amazon offer trade-in programs that can convert unused gadgets into cash or discounts, with credits typically arriving within 10-14 days. This is an excellent way to declutter your space and fund your holiday shopping.

4. Implement Price Tracking Tools

With the holiday shopping landscape constantly evolving, it is crucial to ensure you are getting the best deals. Many consumers express skepticism about the discounts offered during Black Friday. To combat this, utilizing price tracking tools can provide transparency and help you verify the best prices. Options include:

– **CamelCamelCamel**: This tool tracks price histories for over 5 million products on Amazon.
– **Keepa**: Another Amazon-specific tracker, Keepa offers a Chrome extension for easy access to price history.
– **AisleGopher**: Focused on Walmart products, this tool provides tracking for items sold directly by Walmart.
– **Google Price Tracker**: By searching for a product on Google, you can track price changes and receive notifications when prices drop.

These tools empower consumers to make informed purchasing decisions, ensuring they are getting the best value for their money.

5. Explore Cash Back Services for Extra Savings

Many shoppers may overlook cash-back services like Rakuten, which can significantly enhance your savings. Users can earn cash back on purchases, sometimes amounting to substantial returns throughout the holiday season. For instance, a recent purchase at Ulta Beauty resulted in $23 in cash back due to a promotional rate.

While some consumers may perceive these services as offering minimal returns, every bit counts, especially during a time when budgets are tight. By consistently using cash-back platforms, shoppers can maximize their savings and keep more money in their pockets.

As the holiday shopping season approaches, taking these proactive steps can help ensure a smoother and more cost-effective experience. With a little preparation, shoppers can navigate the busy landscape of Black Friday with confidence and ease.