Money talk

Sue’s Guide To Bargains Beyond Black Friday...

Black Friday is often billed as a shopping bonanza with stores flagging up deals in a bid to lure us into splashing our cash. But often, it just creates panic-buying and added pressure so don’t feel you’ve missed out if you didn’t go mad on Black Friday this year.

In fact most shops, both online or in the high street, admit they no longer just stick to discounting on Black Friday itself.

And bear in mind that consumer group Which? says over 90% of Black Friday deals are usually cheaper at other times of the year!

Here are my tips for savvy shopping throughout the year, and not just on Black Friday:

◆ Looking for gadgets like a new TV, laptop or camera? Always check prices before you buy. Do this using price comparison sites like Idealo, Kelkoo or Pricerunner.

◆ Browsing Amazon? Use its own price tracker uk.camelcamelcamel.com which monitors prices all year round. You can also set up price alerts so you know when items drop in price.

◆ Buying on the high street? Check the store returns policy in case you change your mind. You don’t have an automatic right to a refund, but bigger stores may offer refunds or exchanges if you have the receipt. Check first so you don’t end up out of pocket!

◆ You can’t usually “double discount” with voucher codes or money-off coupons as these tend to be valid on full price items only but it’s worth trying when buying online in case discount codes do work at the till.

SUE’S TIPS:

◆ Shoppers were predicted to spend an average of £113 on Black Friday this year; 40% less than 2022

◆ Buying online? You’ve got 14 days after receiving goods to tell the seller you’ve changed your mind, and another 14 days to return them for a refund.

◆ Buying on the high street? There is no automatic right to a refund so steer clear of impulse buys! However, some stores do have goodwill exchange policies.

3 WAYS TOSAVE

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