How to Maximize Black Friday Savings This Year

What Is Black Friday?

Black Friday is the unofficial kickoff to the holiday shopping season and one of the biggest retail events of the year! It also just so happens to be our favorite shopping holiday. It takes place the day after Thanksgiving and is known for massive markdowns on everything from electronics and apparel to toys and home goods.

The term “Black Friday” dates back to the 1960s, when stores used it to describe the day their sales finally moved “into the black” or turned a profit for the year. Today, it’s expanded far beyond a single day, with deals launching in early November and online events like Cyber Monday following close behind.

Most importantly, Black Friday is the savviest time to grab your wish-list items for less!

When Is Black Friday?

Black Friday always falls the day after Thanksgiving. In 2025, that’s Friday, November 28. While it used to be a single day of doorbusters and early-morning lines, today’s Black Friday season starts weeks in advance.

Major retailers like Amazon, Target and Walmart roll out “early access” deals in early November, with new markdowns added throughout the month. Many of those savings carry over into Cyber Monday, giving shoppers more time and more ways to save.

When Do Black Friday Sales Start?

Black Friday deals have already begun! Thanks to online shopping, holiday deals are no longer limited to a single day. Many retailers launch early sales as soon as the first few weeks of November.

Shoppers can already find markdowns across major categories like electronics, home goods and fashion. Stores such as Best Buy, Kohl’s and Macy’s have rolled out events, offering online savings that rival the traditional in-store rush.

The thing we love most is that you can shop from the comfort of home and compare prices in seconds. If you’re ready to save, there’s no reason to wait! Here’s how you can make the most of Black Friday 2025.

1. Start Early & Track Prices

The biggest mistake shoppers make is waiting until Black Friday itself. Many of the deepest discounts appear in early November, when stores quietly test promotions and clear inventory. Use price-tracking tools or set up alerts to monitor drops on high-value items like TVs, laptops or kitchen appliances. If the price dips before Thanksgiving, it’s smart to grab it. Most major retailers now honor price adjustments if the item gets cheaper later. Staying one step ahead means you won’t be stuck scrambling!

“Black Friday has become a month-long marathon, not a one-day sprint,” says Lia Berman, savings analyst at CouponCabin. “The real winners are the shoppers who track prices in early November and buy before the rush. Waiting for the ‘big day’ can actually cost you more. Some electronics and small appliances jump 10-15% once the limited stock sells out.”

2. Make a List & Set a Budget

Impulse shopping is tempting when deals look too good to pass up, but a clear plan keeps spending in check. Write out who you’re shopping for, what items you need and how much you’re willing to spend per category. Include big-ticket items first, like tech and home upgrades, then fill in smaller purchases like gifts and accessories. Keeping a budget in mind helps you focus on genuine savings rather than flashy discounts that will distract you. Remember, a great deal only counts if it’s on something you actually need!

“Impulse shopping is the fastest way to lose your Black Friday savings,” says Diane Lourmas, veteran savings analyst at CouponCabin. “Set a firm list and a dollar limit before you even open your laptop. On average, shoppers who stick to a written plan save 20-30% more than those who wing it, because every click feels intentional instead of emotional.”

3. Compare Before You Commit

Not every “doorbuster” is a true bargain. Prices can vary widely between retailers, especially online. Before you check out, compare the same product at multiple stores. Stores like Best Buy and Walmart will even match a competitor’s lower price during the holiday season. Taking a few extra minutes to verify pricing can easily save you another $20–$100 per item! Smart shoppers always double-check before they click “buy.”

4. Keep Shopping After Black Friday

The savings don’t end when Friday does. Cyber Week brings a fresh wave of online-only deals, often matching or beating in-store discounts. Electronics, small appliances and subscription services tend to see especially strong markdowns. If you miss a deal on Black Friday, don’t stress! Many retailers restock and re-discount top items the following week.

Things to Remember About Black Friday

Here at CouponCabin, we’re the experts when it comes to Black Friday. We’ve watched decades of savings trends, from the doorbuster days of the early 2000s to today’s online-first shopping events. One thing’s certain: how we save has changed, but the excitement hasn’t! Before you dive into this year’s deals, here are a few things to keep in mind to make shopping smoother, smarter and a lot more fun.

✔️ You don’t need everything.
It’s easy to get caught up in the thrill of big red SALE tags, but remember, a good deal isn’t a must-buy. Stick to your list, focus on the items you really want or need and let the rest go. Your wallet will thank you later!

✔️ It’s not 2005 anymore.
You don’t need to camp out in front of stores or elbow through crowds at 5 a.m. Nearly every major retailer now offers the same (or better) deals online. Pour yourself a coffee, open your laptop and shop from the couch in your pajamas.

✔️ Prices fluctuate. Don’t panic!
Some items will dip again closer to Cyber Monday or even in December clearance sales. If you miss a deal, you’ll likely get another shot. The key is to buy when the price feels fair for your budget.

✔️ Not every sale is really a sale.
Retailers sometimes raise prices before dropping them to look like a bigger discount. That’s why tracking prices or checking our verified coupons matters. It keeps the “deal” part of the deal real.

✔️ It’s supposed to be fun.
Black Friday isn’t a competition. Saving money feels great, but don’t let stress take over your holiday spirit. Celebrate the wins, skip the pressure and enjoy the season knowing you scored deals smart, not just fast!