Cyber Monday is one of the biggest online shopping days of the year. It offers a fantastic opportunity to score incredible bargains, especially if you missed Black Friday. From gadgets to home appliances and clothing to beauty products, Cyber Monday offers deals across all categories. But choosing between these deals can be overwhelming. Here’s a simple, easy-to-follow guide to help you make the most of Cyber Monday and grab the best online deals.
1. Prepare your shopping list
Before you dive into the Cyber Monday deals, it’s important to have a clear idea of what you need or want to buy. Make a list of items and prioritize them. By focusing on what you really need, you’ll avoid spending too much money on impulse purchases. Think of gifts for the holidays, items you’ve been wanting for a long time, or essentials that need to be stocked up on. A well-thought-out list can save you time and money on Cyber Monday.
2. Set a budget
It’s easy to get carried away by all the flashy deals and discounts. Setting a budget can help you keep your spending under control. First, determine how much you want to spend overall, then break it down into different categories like electronics, clothing, or household items. This way, you can focus on finding deals within your set limit and ensure you get good value for your money without overspending.
3. Do your research in advance
To get the most out of Cyber Monday, start researching prices a few days before the sale. Check different websites for the items on your list to get an idea of their regular price. This way, you’ll know if a discount is real when Cyber Monday deals pop up. Price comparison tools like Google Shopping or sites like CamelCamelCamel can help you track price history on platforms like Amazon. Knowing what items typically cost will help you spot a good deal when you see one.
4. Use wish lists and shopping carts
Most online stores allow you to create wish lists or save items to your cart. By adding items to your cart or wish list in advance, you can speed up the checkout process on Cyber Monday because you won’t have to hunt for the items during the rush. Some sites will even notify you when an item in your cart or wish list goes on sale, making it easier to keep track of deals.
5. Sign up for newsletters
Many online retailers offer exclusive discounts and early access to sales for customers who subscribe to their newsletters. Signing up for these emails before Cyber Monday can help you take advantage of deals early or access promotional codes that may not be available to everyone. Just remember to unsubscribe after Cyber Monday if you no longer want to receive promotional emails.
6. Follow brands and retailers on social media
Brands often promote their best deals and offer exclusive discount codes on social media. Following your favorite brands on platforms like Instagram, Twitter or Facebook can help you get early access to deals or unique discount codes. Some brands even share flash sales on social media that aren’t advertised anywhere else, so it’s worth keeping an eye on their feeds on Cyber Monday.
7. Take advantage of cashback websites and extensions
Cashback websites and browser extensions can help you save even more. Platforms like Rakuten, Honey and Capital One Shopping allow you to earn cashback on purchases at participating retailers. These services usually have browser extensions that automatically apply cashback and coupon codes when checking out, maximizing your Cyber Monday savings.
8. Download retailer apps
Many retailers offer exclusive app deals on Cyber Monday. Downloading your favorite stores’ apps can give you access to special discounts or flash sale alerts. Plus, the app can make shopping on the go easier and ensure you don’t miss out on deals while you’re out and about.
9. Take advantage of free shipping deals
Shipping costs can add up quickly and reduce the value of your savings. Look for stores that offer free shipping on Cyber Monday. Some retailers offer free shipping on purchases over a certain amount, so consider bundling your purchases at the same store to meet the minimum spend. Additionally, some credit cards offer free shipping through programs like ShopRunner, so it’s worth checking to see if your credit card does.
10. Use promo codes
Promo codes are an easy way to save extra on Cyber Monday. Many websites offer promo codes for discounts, free shipping, or bonuses like a free gift with purchase. Look for promo codes on the retailer’s website, in email newsletters, or on discount sites like RetailMeNot and Coupons.com. Browser extensions like Honey can also find promo codes and automatically apply them at checkout.
11. Beware of scams
Cyber Monday can attract scammers who create fake websites or emails that look like legitimate retailers. Be cautious when clicking links from emails or social media ads, and double-check the URL to make sure you’re on the right site. Avoid deals that seem too good to be true, and don’t give out personal information on unfamiliar sites. Stick with familiar retailers and secure sites (those with “https” in the URL) to protect yourself from scams.
12. Use credit instead of debit card
Using a credit card instead of a debit card can provide additional protection when shopping online. Many credit card companies have fraud protection policies that make it easier to dispute charges if something goes wrong with your order. Plus, some credit cards offer extended warranties or price protection on purchases, which can be an added bonus for expensive items.
13. Don't forget the return policy
Before you buy, check each retailer’s return policy. Some items purchased on Cyber Monday may have different return policies due to the sale. Knowing the return window and terms can help you avoid surprises when you need to send something back. Look for stores with flexible return policies, especially if you’re buying gifts, as the recipient may need to exchange or return the item.
14. Set up alerts and alarms
Many Cyber Monday deals are limited-time deals, so you can set reminders to avoid missing out. Some deals start at midnight or last just a few hours, so it can be helpful to set an alarm for when the sale starts or for lightning deals later in the day. Additionally, enabling notifications in retailer apps or browser extensions can help you stay up to date on new deals as they’re released.
15. Check deal aggregator sites
Deal aggregator sites like Slickdeals, DealNews, and TechBargains compile some of the best Cyber Monday discounts across different categories and retailers. These sites often feature user-generated deal lists and reviews, making it easier to find the best deals. They’re also updated regularly, so you’ll always be aware of new deals as soon as they go live.
16. Plan to buy expensive items early
If you’re looking to buy expensive items like electronics, appliances or furniture, prioritize those purchases. These items tend to be cheapest early in the day, but quantities are usually limited. Focusing on high-value items first will increase your chances of snagging those deals before they sell out.
17. Look for extended Cyber Monday deals
In recent years, many retailers have extended their Cyber Monday deals throughout the entire week, often referred to as Cyber Week. If you miss a deal on Monday, you may still have a chance to snag it later in the week. Keep an eye out for “extended” deals, or additional promotions that some stores offer after Cyber Monday.
Cyber Monday is an exciting time for online shopping, and with a little preparation, you can make the most of the deals. By following these tips, you’ll be well-equipped to snag fantastic discounts without feeling overwhelmed. Remember to stick to your list, stick to your budget and most importantly, enjoy the experience of finding great deals from the comfort of your own home. Happy shopping!