Although I've been covering Black Friday weekend sales for more than a decade as a shopping expert, it still whips me into a buying frenzy. The deals are just too hard to resist! I just snapped up an iPad for my husband ($80 off at Walmart!) and I'm now on the hunt for a Dyson vac ($150 off at Macy's!). I'm also eyeing some of the juicy TV deals out there. If you're planning on cashing in on some of this season's top deals here are four trends you need to know:
More doorbusters are available online, and many sales are starting on Thanksgiving or even earlier! So start your shopping on Turkey Day. It's a great excuse to take a break from your family—or if you really like hanging out nonstop with in-laws, let them in on those great deals you're snapping up! Walmart, for example, launched its iPad sale the night before Thanksgiving. The in-store sales don't start until Thanksgiving at 6pm. Whatever you plan to buy, be sure to read the flyer fine print. While some sales are online and in stores, many are online or in-store only. Keep in mind that certain colors or models might be in-store only.
Giant 4K TVs from big brands like Samsung and LG are easier than ever to find. Some of these TVs are “seasonal” models with fewer features. They're rolled out for the holidays and may be available only at certain retailers. So you might not be able to compare prices and often you can't find reviews for these models. Nevertheless, they’re often great deals, especially if you’re looking for a larger screen (65 inches or bigger) and 4K technology from a major brand. Check ConsumerReports.org and other sites for reviews and updates.
This year's hot gift will be voice-activated smart speakers from Google, Amazon, and now Facebook. You'll find great deals on Amazon Echos, Dots, Spots, and Shows as well as Google Home devices. Even the brand new Facebook Portals are on sale—buy 2 and save $100 off at Best Buy and other stores.
Fast, free shipping is the big freebie this season. Walmart and Target are offering free 2-day shipping (Walmart has a $35 minimum; Target has no minimum) and Best Buy, eBay, and Amazon are offering free shipping with no minimum order. And there's always Free Shipping Day, which is Dec. 14 this year. That's when hundreds of retailers offer free shipping with guaranteed delivery by Christmas.