Black Friday is just around the corner (28 November), and for many South Africans, the idea of bargain hunting is exciting. But the savviest shoppers know real savings mean buying smarter.
During last year’s Black Friday and Cyber Monday, shoppers spent more than in 2023. But with many households feeling the pinch, South Africans will probably think twice before filling the trolley.
Before you make rash decisions, take a breath, grab your list, and learn a few smart tricks to stretch your budget further with these Black Friday shopping tips.
Black Friday South Africa shopping tips
Plan before you pounce
If you are serious about saving, don’t panic-buy. Start scouting early. Track prices on items you actually need, whether it is a fridge, a laptop or something smaller like school shoes. Screenshot the normal prices now so you know a real discount when you see it. Making a list helps you from clicking “Add to cart” just because it looks like a good deal. You can even use price-tracking tools or retailer wishlists to get alerts when prices drop.
Compare before you commit
One of the smartest Black Friday shopping tips is to compare deals across platforms. Don’t assume one big retailer has the lowest price. Sometimes, smaller online stores or local shops beat them. Always check websites like Takealot, Loot, Makro, and even shop apps before you buy. Comparing can save you hundreds, especially on electronics or appliances.
Spend where it matters
Pick’n Pay revealed that during an early 2024 Black Friday push, shoppers bought enough sugar to sweeten more than 70 million cups of coffee, proof that South Africans often shop smart by stocking up on staples. Bulk cleaning products, long-life pantry goods, and energy-saving gadgets are the quiet winners of the season. You’ll thank yourself in February when you’re still using them.
Stay smart – scams are evolving
Black Friday also attracts the scammers. This year’s tricksters are using fake websites, deepfake ads and AI to lure South African shoppers in. Always check URLs, look for verified sellers, and avoid clicking on suspicious “too good to be true” links. You wouldn’t give your card details to a stranger in a parking lot; don’t do it online either.
Shop Black Friday deals with a clear head
Before you hit checkout, pause and ask yourself whether you would buy the item if it weren’t on sale. If not, close the tab or walk past. The savviest South African shoppers know that Black Friday isn’t about grabbing every special, but choosing wisely and walking away happy (and debt-free). With these Black Friday shopping tips, you should be able to make better decisions.
Black Friday can be thrilling, but the smartest South Africans know that the real win is shopping carefully and following these practical Black Friday shopping tips to protect their pocket. Compare, plan and stay alert, because the real savings happen long before you hit the shop.
