Five ways to avoid being ripped off on Black Friday

As the excitement of Black Friday approaches, many shoppers are eager to find the best deals. However, it can be easy to get caught up in the frenzy and end up spending more than intended. Charlotte Edwards, a business reporter, highlights some essential tips to help consumers navigate the shopping chaos without falling victim to scams or overspending. One of the most important strategies is to create a shopping list and stick to it. Sarah Johnson, a director at a retail consultancy, emphasizes, 'It's only a deal if it’s something you genuinely wanted or needed before seeing the discount. ' This means that shoppers should focus on purchasing items they truly desire rather than being swayed by flashy sales. By setting a budget and adhering to a list, consumers can maximize their savings and avoid impulse purchases that lead to regret. Another crucial tip is to compare prices across different retailers. Harry Rose, the editor of Which? Magazine, advises shoppers to check the price history of products before making a purchase. He states, 'When looking to make a purchase, it's worth comparing the price at multiple retailers. ' This approach allows consumers to identify genuine bargains and avoid falling for misleading discounts. Research conducted by Which? revealed that a significant percentage of Black Friday deals were either the same price or cheaper at other times of the year. Therefore, shoppers should not feel pressured to buy items on Black Friday, as many deals are often repeated or even improved later on. For those looking to save even more, considering second-hand options can be a smart move. Influencer Vivien Tang suggests exploring resale platforms for items that may be available at a lower price. Jess, another resale influencer, points out that many platforms allow users to make offers that fit their budget. 'If you make an offer and it’s reasonable, most sellers will accept,' she explains. This means that shoppers can find great deals on gently used items while also being environmentally conscious. Interestingly, a recent survey found that a majority of people are open to receiving second-hand gifts, especially during the holiday season. This shift in perception makes second-hand shopping an appealing option for those looking to save money. However, it is essential to be cautious when it comes to spending. Many consumers resort to credit cards or overdrafts to finance their Black Friday purchases, but this can lead to significant debt. Financial experts warn that if shoppers do not pay off their credit card balances promptly, they may end up paying more in interest than they saved during the sales. For instance, a £300 purchase could take over a year to pay off if only £20 is paid each month, resulting in an additional £55 in interest charges. To avoid this pitfall, experts recommend paying off credit card balances immediately, ideally using savings, to prevent accruing interest. Lastly, shoppers should remain vigilant against scams that often arise during the Black Friday shopping season. Criminals take advantage of the heightened excitement to trick unsuspecting consumers. Liz Ziegler, the fraud prevention director at Lloyds Bank, advises, 'When shopping online, the best way to stay safe is to buy from a trusted retailer and always pay by card for the greatest protection. ' Shoppers should be wary of unfamiliar websites and ensure that they are purchasing from legitimate sources. Additionally, it is crucial to be cautious of deals that seem too good to be true, as they often are. By following these guidelines, consumers can enjoy a successful and safe Black Friday shopping experience without falling prey to scams or overspending.