Tired of so-called Cyber Monday deals with discounts of only 10% or 15%? So are we. That's why we've been scouring the sales at major retailers to find you the very best Black Friday and Cyber Monday deals that are actually a good deal.

From Amazon's best Cyber Monday deals to Target Cyber Monday deals that are worth stocking up on, there are savings to be found today if you do some digging (and comparison shopping).

While some Black Friday deals fall short, these Best Buy Cyber Monday deals are all 50% off or more. So you can get that upgraded TV you've been dreaming of or grab a few tech gifts that your friends or family will love at half the price (or less). But order quick, because many of these deals will be gone tomorrow.

Best Buy Cyber Monday TV deals

• LG - 65" Class B5 Series OLED AI 4K TV, $1,000. Save 50%
• TCL - 65" Class QM6K Series 4K TV, $500. Save 50%
• Hisense - 98" Class QD5 Series QLED 4K TV, $1,000. Save 56%
• Toshiba - 55" Class C350 Series LED 4K TV, $200. Save 50%

Best home security deals at Best Buy

• Blink - Video Doorbell, Battery-Powered, $30. Save 57%
• Lorex - 2K Wi-Fi Smart Lightbulb Camera (2-Pack), $40. Save 50%
• Blink - Outdoor 4, 5-camera system, $120. Save 60%
• SimpliSafe - 9pc Outdoor Home Security System, $225. Save 50%
• Ring - Alarm Security Kit 5-Piece, $100. Save 50%

Best Buy Cyber Monday deals on laptops and tablets

• HP - OmniBook 3 15.6" Full HD Laptop, $400. Save 50%
• Amazon - Fire HD 10 Tablet, $70. Save 50%
• Lenovo - IdeaPad 1 15.6" Full HD Laptop, $250. Save 52%
• Samsung - Galaxy Chromebook Go - 14" LED Laptop, $150. Save 54%
• Amazon - Fire HD 8 Kids Pro Tablet, $65. Save 53%

Our Favorite Cyber Monday headphone deals at Best Buy

• Soundcore - by Anker P20i True Wireless In-Ear Headphones, $20. Save 50%
• JBL - Tune Buds 2, $50. Save 54%
• Sony - WH-1000XM4 Wireless Noise-Cancelling Headphones, $160. Save 54%
• Sennheiser - MOMEMTUM 4 Noise-Cancelling Headphones, $180. Save 60%
• Soundcore - by Anker C40i Open-Ear Cip-On Headphones, $50. Save 58%

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• 4 Black Friday Scams to Watch Out For

Between gift shopping, charitable donations and gearing up to host or travel for the holidays, many Americans will be spending a lot of money over the next couple of months.

All that money being spent over the holidays brings scammers out of the woodwork as they try to steal your cash, your credit card information and other sensitive data. And the techniques fraudsters use are getting more and more sophisticated every year.

As the biggest sales event of the year rolls around, make sure you're taking advantage of legitimate Black Friday deals at Amazon and other retailers, instead of handing your hard-earned money over to a fraudster. To do that, brush up on how some of the most common Black Friday scams work and the red flags to watch for so you don't fall into these traps.

1. Fake Black Friday deals

Your inbox is probably already seeing a steady stream of Black Friday deal announcements and offers from your favorite brands. Scammers will be using all the frenzy and excitement to try to steal your money. Here's how it works:

• You get an email from what looks like a brand you like, offering a can't-miss Black Friday deal.
• You click through the link in the email to shop the deals on that brand's website.
• The website looks identical to the real thing, but it's actually a fake operated by scammers.
• When you go to check out, you often won't have the option to pay by credit card. Instead, it will request a bank transfer or even cryptocurrency payment.

How to avoid this scam

• Check the URL. Instead of "Amazon," you might notice that the URL actually reads "Amaz0n" (with a zero), for example. There will often be something slightly off about it.
• You can also look at the website itself more closely. Does it have a privacy policy? Does the business have a mailing address? Is there an "about us" page?
• Compare the deal to other retailers. If the website is promising the latest Apple AirPods Pro 3 for $100, but no other retailer has a deal lower than $200, that's a red flag.
• If you can't use a credit card, don't make the purchase. When paying with a credit card, you enjoy some built-in fraud protection – including the option to call up your bank and request a charge back if it turns out the deal was a scam. When you transfer cash from your bank, use a payment app like Zelle or pay with crypto, you don't have those same protections.
• Use shopping guides from trusted news outlets, like our guides to Target's best Black Friday deals or our favorite Walmart Black Friday deals. Even if you don't end up buying any of our picks, the links you used to navigate to the site will be legitimate.

2. Fake order confirmations

This one can come via email or text. Scammers will send you what looks like a legitimate order confirmation, but clicking the link will either install malware on your device or take you to a phishing site. Here's how it works:

• You get an order confirmation via email or text.
• If it looks like an order you recently placed, you might mistake it for a legitimate confirmation and use the link inside to track the shipping progress.
• If it looks like something you never ordered, you might click through the link to investigate or cancel the order.
• In a malware attack, clicking the link is all it takes to install the malware on your device, which will then be able to scrape that device for sensitive information like passwords or financial data.
• In a phishing attack, clicking the link takes you to a webpage that asks for your personal information — often under the guise of helping you track (or cancel) the order.

How to avoid this scam

• Check the email address of the sender. Often, the email will be from a public domain (like gmail rather than Amazon). If not, the domain might be either misspelled or contain extra words. For example, Amazon would be Amaz0n (with a zero) or it might be "Amazoncustomerservice.com" instead of just "Amazon.com."
• Look for threats or pressure tactics. A real order confirmation will never threaten you with things like "click here to avoid order cancellation" or "your order will be deleted if you don't confirm your information."
• Keep track of all your holiday purchases, perhaps by writing a list with order numbers, tracking numbers and other key details. If you get a confirmation that looks like it could be real, compare the order number or tracking number against the actual order you think it might be referring to. If they don't match up, report the sender as spam.

3. The gift card scam

You get an email or text claiming a friend or family member sent you a gift card. Like the order confirmation scam, clicking through the link will either take you to a phishing page or immediately install malware on your device.

How to avoid this scam

• If the message includes a friend or family member's name, reach out to that person directly to ask if they did, in fact, send you a gift card. Do not reply to the gift card message or click on any links in the meantime.
• If no name is included, that's suspicious on its own. But, you can confirm by reaching out to all of your friends and family who tend to send you gifts around the holidays to find out if any of them sent a gift card.
• If nobody you know says they've sent you a gift card, report the phone number or email address as spam.

4. Fake shopping apps

Plenty of retailers offer downloadable apps that you can install on your phone. It's actually become one of the more annoying tech intrusions. But it's important to make sure the app you're downloading is actually the one that belongs to that retailer. Otherwise, you could be walking into a scam.

Counterfeit apps can look surprisingly similar to the real deal. The logo and other details might look just like that of the popular retailer it's impersonating. When you download it, you're actually downloading malware or spyware.

In some cases, the app prompts you to log in, browse what look like real deals and even checkout with your financial information. Now, the scammer has your real login credentials and potentially stole other sensitive information from you as well.

How to avoid this scam

• Check the number of downloads and reviews. A popular brand or major platform like Amazon or Walmart will have millions of downloads and a substantial review history on its app. The fake version, on the other hand, might only have a few thousand downloads and even fewer reviews.
• Check the developer's name. The developer of Walmart's app will be Walmart (spelled correctly). A scammer will either use a slightly misspelled version of the brand they're impersonating or a generic name like "Best Shopping Deals."
• Just don't download the app. Sometimes, retailers offer special perks for downloading their apps. There are some Walmart+ perks that you can only use if you have the app, for example. But, if you don't need those specific perks or you've been fine so far without them, just skip the app. At best, it's taking up space on your phone. At worst, it's a counterfeit app stealing your data.

Shop smart this holiday season

The safest way to shop on Black Friday or any time of year is to be cautious. Stick to retailers you know and trust. Navigate to their websites directly rather than by clicking through links you get in emails or texts.

Above all, remember that Black Friday deals can be good — but if a particular deal seems too good to be true, it probably is.

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When your gift list gets longer but your holiday gift budget stays the same, it's time to get creative about shopping for everyone on your list. While rising prices make it feel impossible to get something everyone will love without overspending, there are plenty of budget-friendly gift ideas out there.

One of the best-kept secrets for finding under-$20 gifts that will put a smile on people's faces is Amazon Haul. The home of "crazy low" prices and deeply discounted finds, Amazon Haul is a place where everything you see costs $20 or less.

Sure, you won't find the newest Nintendo Switch for your grandkid or a diamond-studded tennis bracelet for your wife. But, there are some surprisingly gift-worthy items on there if you're willing to dig. So, if you need budget-friendly stocking stuffers for the family or low-cost gift ideas to pass out to coworkers and extended relatives, Amazon Haul is a great resource to use.

Still not convinced? Check out some of the best under-$20 gift ideas from the platform below to see what kind of items you'll find.

Best Amazon Haul travel gifts

For the frequent flyers on your gift list this year, make their next trip more comfortable by gifting them one of these under-$20 travel gadgets and accessories.

• Handheld Luggage Scale, 110lb Luggage Weight Scale, $8
• Retro Canvas Crossbody Bag, $15
• Travel essentials Electronic Cable Organizer Pouch, $11
• Mini Refillable Perfume Travel Bottle, 5-Pack, $3
• RFID Blocking Passport Holder, $6 (originally $10)
• Travel Jewelry Organizer Case, $7
• Amazon Essentials 4-Piece Packing Cubes, $13

Best Amazon Haul gifts for kids and teens

Need some stocking stuffers for the kids and teens in your life that won't break the bank? Here are 10 Amazon Haul finds that are all $20 or less.

• Kids Camera Instant Print, $18
• Elbow Room Games 3-in-1 Game Set, Chess, Checkers & Tic Tac Toe, $14 (originally $18)
• Build Your Own FM Radio Kit for Kids, $10 (originally $13)
• Newborn Winter Romper Fleece Hooded Jumpsuit, $19
• Gamie Mini Electronic Memory Game, $10 (originally $13)
• Mp3 Player with Bluetooth 5.3 HiFi Sound, $20
• Vgogfly Lined Men's Knit Beanie, $9
• Winter Cable Knit Beanie Hat for Women, $13
• Timberland PRO Mens Sorbtek Moisture Control Socks, 6-Pack, $14 (originally $20)

Best home and kitchen deals on Amazon Haul

If you need a crowd-pleaser gift for a coworker or a white elephant gift exchange, it's hard to go wrong with a handy gadget or decor for the home. Here are a few under-$20 gift ideas to consider.

• Bicycle Pizza Cutter Wheel, $10
• TRZLIFE Cordless Desk Vacuum Cleaner, $17
• Homeweeks Diffusers, 100ml Colorful Essential Oil Diffuser, $11
• Stainless Steel Bacon Grease Container With Strainer, 46 fl. oz., $10
• 2 in 1 Glass Oil Sprayer & Dispenser,16 oz, $8
• Electric Pepper and Salt Grinder, $10
• Artificial Fall Lighted Maple Tree, $19 (originally $26)

If these exact options aren't a fit for your gift-giving needs, shop around on the Amazon Haul site. There are plenty of options and you're sure to find something that will work for everyone, including yourself.

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Holiday shopping season is here, and if you're feeling pressure to spend big this year, you're not alone. According to the National Retail Federation (NRF), Americans are expected to spend an average of $890.45 per person on holiday items which is just shy of the all-time high reached in 2021.

On average, consumers plan to spend $627.93 on gifts for family, friends and coworkers. The rest typically goes to seasonal extras like food, decorations and greeting cards. Between rising prices, wish lists and festive marketing everywhere you turn, it’s easy to go overboard.

But how much should you actually spend on holiday gifts? That number should depend less on national averages and more on your personal financial situation. Here’s how to set a gift-giving budget that won’t derail your financial goals.

Breaking down the holiday budget

When most people think “holiday budget,” they think “gifts.” But presents are just one piece of the spending pie.

Other common expenses include:

• Decorations: Tree trimmings, lights, candles and wreaths
• Travel: Flights, gas, lodging and pet boarding
• Entertaining: Food, drinks and party supplies
• Miscellaneous extras: Wrapping paper, postage, tips and spontaneous purchases

To create a budget that works, zoom out and look at the entire holiday season. Start with what you can afford to spend overall, then decide how much of that total should go toward gifts.

How to determine a realistic gift-spending number

There’s no universal number that works for everyone when it comes to holiday gift spending. While surveys and statistics might say the average person is spending $620 on gifts, your personal finances, not national averages, should drive your decision.

One popular method is to base your gift budget on a percentage of your annual or monthly income. For example, setting aside 1% to 1.5% of your annual income for holiday gifts is a reasonable starting point that keeps spending proportional to your financial picture.

Someone earning $70,000 a year might aim for around $700, but if you're juggling other financial goals or facing a tight season, it’s perfectly okay to spend far less.

Another approach is to use a zero-based budget and assign a specific dollar amount to each person you plan to shop for. Start with your overall holiday budget, subtract any known expenses like travel or decorations, and then divide what’s left among gift recipients.

Set up simple money rules for the holiday season

If you’re worried about overspending, try a cash-only or envelope system, where you withdraw a set amount of money and commit to not spending beyond it. This technique can be especially helpful in avoiding credit card debt during the busiest shopping season of the year.

When setting your gift budget, take time to reflect on your broader financial situation. Are you currently building up an emergency fund, tackling high-interest debt, or saving for a big purchase like a car or home?

Are you planning to travel or host events that will increase your overall holiday spending? Do you typically overspend during the holidays and regret it come January? Being honest about your habits and goals can help you create a spending plan that brings joy instead of stress.

Smart strategies to stay on budget without cutting joy

Holiday budgeting doesn’t mean you have to become a Scrooge. In fact, some of the most meaningful gifts and memorable traditions cost very little. If you're trying to stay within your budget, consider alternatives to the traditional everyone-gets-a-gift approach.

One effective strategy is to do a Secret Santa gift exchange among family or friends, where each person draws a name and buys just one gift. This dramatically reduces how much you spend without sacrificing the fun of giving.

Setting group gift caps is another budget-friendly move. Families or friend groups can agree on a limit, say, $25 or $50 per person, to keep things fair and affordable. You can also use credit card rewards, points or cashback to pay for gifts or gift cards, which can stretch your holiday dollars without tapping into your checking account.

If you’re shopping online, take advantage of price-tracking tools like CamelCamelCamel for Amazon or browser extensions like Honey and Rakuten to find the best deals and cashback offers.

When it makes sense to spend more and when to scale back

There are times when spending a little extra during the holidays is completely justified, and even worth prioritizing. If you’re celebrating a milestone year, like a child’s first Christmas, a wedding anniversary, or a rare family reunion, it may make sense to allocate a bigger portion of your budget to gifts or experiences that mark the occasion.

Similarly, if you’ve saved for the season all year and are on solid financial footing, allowing a little more room in your gift budget can enhance your holiday experience without causing financial harm.

On the other hand, it’s smart to pull back if you're in a tight spot. If you’re carrying credit card balances, don’t have an emergency fund, or your income is unpredictable, it's better to spend conservatively and communicate your intentions with loved ones.

Most people are more understanding than we give them credit for especially when you're transparent about focusing on your financial goals. Thoughtful gestures like homemade gifts, shared experiences, or even heartfelt cards can go a long way and often mean more than something expensive.

Your holiday budget should support your bigger financial goals

It’s easy to get swept up in the festive spirit and spend more than intended, especially when emotional pressure, advertising and social comparison come into play. But the reality is that holiday spending should always support your long-term financial health instead of sabotaging it.

Whether you’re saving for retirement, building a rainy-day fund or working toward a debt-free life, your holiday budget should reflect those goals.

Think of holiday spending as part of your overall financial plan, not something that happens in a vacuum. Overspending in December can create setbacks in January that take months to recover from. On the other hand, sticking to a realistic budget helps you ring in the new year with financial peace of mind. That means no guilt, no credit card surprises and no scramble to play catch-up.

So when it comes to your holiday spending, choose a number that aligns with your values, brings you joy and supports the future you're working toward. A thoughtful, balanced approach to holiday giving is the best gift you can give yourself.

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“If in doubt, get a gift card.” Not my advice, but the words of my 12-year-old when we were discussing what we should get his friend for Christmas.

He’s right, to an extent. Once kids get too old and too cool for toys, you’re entering into a bit of a no-man’s land gift wise (unless they’re into the ultimate failsafe, Lego). So it’s arguably safer to give them the means to choose their own present. We’ll get a card from a trusted online retailer, and I’m pretty sure it’ll go down well with the friend in question.

Aside from kids and teens, though, gift cards aren’t always well received. Some people consider them unimaginative or even thoughtless — the equivalent of stuffing some cash in an envelope. And it’s true that I don’t generally give gift cards for Christmas.

Here’s the reason though — and it’s nothing to do with money etiquette or being a Scrooge. It’s just that gift cards can turn out to be a massive headache, and that’s not something I want to give to anyone.

Where I live, in the UK, the high street — what we call the main retail area in any town or city — has been in decline for years, with many well-respected stores and restaurant chains suddenly going bust, even before the pandemic. That’s turned far too many gift cards into redundant pieces of plastic.

If you’re dogged about it, you can try to get the money on the card back from what’s left of the business, or its administrators, but your chances are slim. If the gift was bought with a credit or debit card, the cardholder may be able to get their card company to reverse the charge, as you can in the U.S., but that also takes time and effort.

It’s a similarly challenging time for businesses in America. Consumer habits are changing, and as more people shop online, order in and shun sit-down restaurants, even big names are feeling the heat. Consider TGI Fridays, which has filed for bankruptcy and is liable for around $50 million in unused gift cards and certificates.

Choose a gift card wisely

So, what should you do if you’d still like to give a gift card this Christmas? To guarantee your money won’t go to waste, it’s safest to buy cards from the biggest names with the best reputations.

You’ll know which ones the recipient likes, but it’s an especially good bet to pick a department store to widen their choices when they eventually go shopping. According to YouGov US, the most popular department store for baby boomers and millennials is Costco, while Gen Xers prefer Kohl’s. Best Buy is also a good option as it has a wide range of products. Or, use our guide to the best gift cards to find one that’ll be appreciated.

A word, too, on expiry dates. While gift cards here in the UK can have pretty short lifespans and may expire in two years, that’s less of a problem in the U.S., which has better consumer protection. While state laws vary, under federal law, money on a gift card can’t expire for at least five years from the date the card was purchased, or from the last date any additional money was loaded onto the card. (Those TGI Friday gift cards? They never expire.) Remind the recipient to keep the card in their wallet so it’s less likely to be forgotten, but give them the original receipt in case the card is lost or stolen.

And lastly, without getting too Downton Abbey-etiquette about it, if you’re reluctant to give a gift card at Christmas because it seems a little, well, “inelegant,” you can make it less transactional by wrapping it up with the receiver’s favorite chocolates, a small jokey gift or just a handwritten note — anything to let the person know you’ve thought about them. After all, isn’t that the real point of holiday gift giving?

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Planning a holiday party or gathering? A white elephant gift exchange might seem like the perfect centerpiece. But will it resonate with your group, or could there be better ways to create a fun and memorable experience?

When it comes to holiday party games, few are as widely known as the white elephant gift exchange. The basic premise is simple: Purchase something inexpensive that will get some laughs or head scratches when someone chooses the gift. White elephant gift exchanges promote light-hearted fun, especially in settings like the workplace, social clubs and family gatherings.

Not sold on the idea of a white elephant exchange? There are other creative ways to celebrate that can still bring holiday cheer to your group's gathering.

Festive alternatives to white elephant gift exchange

Here are a few alternative activities that can make your holiday gathering special while creating connection:

Secret Santa exchange - Participants are randomly assigned to buy a thoughtful gift for a specific person in the group. This approach allows for more intentional giving, as it often involves learning about the recipient’s preferences and selecting something they’d enjoy. It still keeps an element of surprise but adds a personal touch that many find more meaningful.

Ornament exchange - Everyone brings an ornament to swap, either through a random draw or by assigning exchange partners in advance. In the end, each participant walks away with a charming keepsake to decorate their home for future holiday seasons.

Holiday donation drive - Instead of a gift exchange, participants contribute to a chosen cause or organization. This approach creates a sense of community, reinforces the spirit of giving, and supports those in need during the holiday season.

Pros and cons of white elephant gifting

Before making a final decision, it helps to weigh the pros and cons of a white elephant gift exchange.

White elephant gift exchanges can offer a great, stress-free way for everyone to be included and have fun, regardless of how expensive a gift they can afford. Additionally, this holiday party game is great for those who don't seem to need or want anything. The point is to have fun and laugh rather than feel pressured about buying something that most people will need.

On the other hand, some people don't enjoy exchanging silly gifts, especially when there's a chance no one will want any of them because they're items intended for laughs. Additionally, some people may feel awkward trying to pick out something for a gift exchange, and those whose gift is stolen might feel hurt. Finally, some people might feel like participating in a white elephant gift exchange is simply a waste of money.

Whether or not white elephant gifting fits your crowd, the goal is the same: to create moments of joy and connection. Choose the activities that best suit your group’s spirit, and you’re sure to make lasting holiday memories.

Holiday gift exchange deals

Setting a maximum budget for your gift exchange can help set expectations and keep everyone included. Tools like Elfster make it easy to organize participants, draw names, create and share wish lists and keep everything on track.

If you're celebrating remotely, platforms like White Elephant Online allow teams and families to join a virtual gift exchange and participate from anywhere.

A $25 limit is a common sweet spot for office groups, friend gatherings and family parties because it keeps gifting fun without adding financial pressure. Below are some retailer gift ideas under $25 to help you get started:

• Shop Amazon gifts under $25
• Shop Costco gifts under $25
• Shop Walmart gifts under $25
• Shop Target gifts under $25
• Shop Etsy gifts under $25

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Every year, Black Friday (the day after Thanksgiving) pulls millions out of bed to shop the latest deals. While most might be eying gifts for loved ones, the savvy business owner can take advantage of potential tax savings during year-end holiday sales.

In addition to price tag discounts, you might claim a tax deduction on purchases such as computers, furniture, software and printing.

Be sure the expenses qualify for a deduction, and heed other potential pitfalls, such as reduced cash flow and the timing of purchases.

Black Friday business equipment write-offs

To qualify as a business deduction on your federal tax return, a claimed purchase must be:

• Ordinary (common in the industry), and
• Necessary (appropriate and helpful)

Any purchases meeting those requirements might be tax-deductible on your year-end return. This might include business expense deductions for:

• Technology and electronics, such as computers, keyboards and printers
• Business card processing fees
• Software subscriptions
• Office supplies, such as pens, paper, ink
• Marketing and advertising (think ‘printing materials’ in terms of Black Friday deals)
• Office furniture and equipment, such as shelves, desks and chairs

However, there are some restrictions on what qualifies as tax-deductible. Next, we’ll look at some business expenses you probably can’t deduct from your taxes.

Business expenses that aren't allowed (non-deductible)

Whether you’re perusing computer store shelves or hitting the racks at a retail outlet on Black Friday, be sure what you’re buying qualifies for a business expense deduction. Otherwise, you might be in for a rude awakening when tax time comes.

For instance, the following expenses are not tax-deductible:

• Business clothes (unless it’s a uniform, safety equipment or other apparel you couldn’t use outside of the business)
• Gifts more than $25 (given from a business to an individual)
• Personal expenses

Can I buy business items for personal use?

There might be a temptation to claim a partial deduction for personal items you sometimes use for business. For instance, you could buy a printer for 50% business and 50% personal, or items for your home office that you use for non-office-related activities throughout the year.

But by “splitting” the use of an object, you're opening yourself up to a potential audit risk with the IRS. In other words, the IRS looks for this commingling of business vs pleasure in determining which audits to assess.

Document the times you use an asset for its intended business purpose.

Maximizing small business deductions before year-end

It’s easy to get pulled in by flashy “SALE” signs, especially during the holiday season. Be sure you’re spending money on value-added items to your business — not just decor or simple cosmetics.

You might not need to buy that new curved, ultrawide computer monitor if your current one works just fine.

Not only could frivolous expenditures cause you to spend more than you’re saving, but you could also run into cash flow issues later in the year when you don't have enough saved for investment.

That said, taking advantage of Black Friday timing can save tax dollars on more expensive buys, like computers, TVs, or other high-value equipment.

For these purchases, small businesses can expense the full cost of an asset even if bought at the end of the year. This means that, for 2025, you could expense on your federal return:

• $2,500,000 in qualifying business purchases, or
• Total business taxable income, whichever is less

Timing matters. Consult a tax professional for rules that might be unique to your situation, though, and keep in mind state income tax laws might differ from federal.

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In years past, Black Friday deals were only good the day after Thanksgiving. However, that's all changed, with the Black Friday sales period usually extending from Thanksgiving evening through Sunday night, followed by Cyber Monday — which is traditionally when lots of online shopping deals appear.

Years ago, hordes of shoppers lined up outside stores to be the first to dive into the best Black Friday deals they could find. Deep discounts on highly sought-after toys and electronics drew the masses into brick-and-mortar stores. Online shopping has changed this tradition, especially with many retailers offering Black Friday offers early, way before the big sales day actually arrives.

Added to that, there can be suspicion about the extent to which the deals offered around this time represent... a good deal. There's no denying that some of the early excitement has come out of Black Friday. But, coming just after Thanksgiving and in the run-up to the holiday gift-giving season, many people still (and may always) associate Black Friday with sales shopping.

So, how do you work out when the best deals are on offer? And is it worth shopping on Black Friday anyways? Let's dive in.

Is Black Friday worth it? Pros and cons

The pros of Black Friday are fairly obvious: Prices are lower on certain products and memberships, like Amazon Music Unlimited and Black Friday streaming deals. If you're shopping for holiday gifts, it's a great time to save on costs. If you were planning to buy certain other items, like computer monitors or large appliances, you could also find deals to save there, too, on items you were already planning to spend on.

The cons of Black Friday come with a little more nuance. For one, you may not be aware exactly how much of a discount you actually are getting, which is why it's worth doing some research and making a plan of what you're going to buy. The other negative to Black Friday is the basic concept of spending. You could get so swept up in the deals and the adrenaline of shopping that you spend more than you need to. This is where having a plan and using one of the best budgeting apps comes in handy.

In terms of timing: As far as the quality of Black Friday deals vs sale prices on the days leading up to Black Friday, it's safe to say that usually shopping on Black Friday itself will bring the best prices. On the other hand, you're more likely to have the choice of what you want to buy if you shop early, due to potential shortages of some products advertised on Black Friday. It all comes down to what's most important to you.

One thing to note is that heading to brick-and-mortar stores, on the day, may bring some interesting gift-with-purchase offers that you won't get online or on other days.

If you wait until after Black Friday, you may get different offer options for Cyber Monday and heading into the Christmas holiday season.

Black Friday vs. Cyber Monday

When looking at Black Friday vs. Cyber Monday, some themes emerge immediately.

Generally, Cyber Monday is a continuation of the prices offered on Black Friday rather than a new raft of discounted items. So, you probably won't see better prices if you wait for Cyber Monday, instead of buying on Black Friday weekend. That does, thankfully, give you more time to make decisions.

Shopping strategies for Black Friday

When it comes to maximizing your savings on Black Friday, it helps to have a strategy.

The hottest items like electronics, toys and gadgets will be the first to sell out. Thus, it's best to prioritize those over other items like apparel, which may still have the best prices of the year but also less competition from shoppers early in the day.

Here are some other smart shopping tips for Black Friday:

• Use price-tracking tools like CamelCamelCamel, PayPal Honey, Capital One Shopping, Keepa and Slickdeals.
• Make a shopping list.
• Make a schedule of which stores to hit when prioritizing the items with the most competition for their Black Friday deals.
• Avoid impulse buys.
• Skip certain big-ticket items like appliances or mattresses if you can wait. Better deals may be coming around Presidents' Day.
• For online shoppers, set up deal alerts on Alexa or the Amazon app.
• If you're a member of Costco, Sam's Club, BJ's Wholesale, or other members-only warehouse clubs, check your ads for exclusive members-only deals.

Win Black Friday by planning ahead
Stores advertise Black Friday deals for weeks before the actual day, but those deals may not actually offer the best prices.

It can be easy to be overwhelmed by the numerous deals being offered for weeks on end, but with a clear head and a plan in place, you'll be sure to make the most of the holiday shopping season.

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Watch out for price spikes in the grocery aisle or on the retail rack this year as domestic suppliers absorb the administration’s tariffs.

President Donald Trump has slapped tariffs on most trade partners, causing prices of such items as canned goods, car parts and gas to spike. The measure has also impacted online shoppers and small businesses, including vendors on Etsy, as clothing and small items shipped from China also face steep import taxes.

The Trump administration recently agreed to lower tariffs to 30% from 145% on Chinese imports for 90 days, while China’s duties on U.S. imports will be reduced to 10% from 125%.

This comes after Trump acknowledged that his tariffs would increase the pricing of goods in the United States, such as your child’s toys.

“Maybe the children will have two dolls instead of 30 dolls, you know?” Trump told reporters at the White House. “Maybe the two dolls will cost a couple of bucks more than they would normally.”

Mattel, the U.S. toy company and maker of Barbie and Hot Wheels, responded with plans to raise prices on American toys due to tariffs on China in its latest earnings call.

Meanwhile, Hasbro, known for toys like Monopoly, also reported that unpredictable tariffs would “translate into higher consumer prices.” Florida-based Basic Fun!, known for selling Care Bears, warned that it had to pause some shipments from China and that toys would soon “disappear” from its store shelves.

According to the Toy Association, nearly 80% of toys sold in the U.S. are sourced from China. A recent survey revealed that nearly 50% of U.S. toy companies could go out of business due to tariffs.

Before Trump took office, toys made in China were exempt from tariffs.

The National Retail Federation (NRF) warned that Trump’s tariff policy would dramatically increase the price of apparel, toys, furniture, household appliances, footwear and travel goods.

Here’s how tariffs can impact your shopping experience this year.

What rising tariffs mean for families in 2025

To narrow down the impact of tariffs, the National Retail Federation selected six common categories of consumer goods to evaluate how the tax can influence price changes.

Apparel, toys, furniture, household appliances, footwear and travel goods account for just 7% of total U.S. imports.

The proposed tariffs on these six categories would reduce consumers’ spending power by $46.2 billion to $78 billion annually. That translates to $362 to $624 per household every year that tariffs are in effect.

The following examples show two of Trump’s earlier tariff proposals:

• The first scenario called for a universal 10% tariff on all imports and a 60% tax on imported goods from China.
• The second proposal suggested a 20% across-the-board tariff on all imported goods, and a tariff as high as 100% on Chinese products.

(For more information on where tariffs stand now, see: What’s Happening With Trump’s Tariffs? New Rates and Trade Talks).

Here’s where prices would rise the most.

You’ll spend more on everyday apparel such as jeans, T-shirts

Households will spend hundreds more on clothes and furniture under Trump's universal tariff plans, NRF researchers warned.

Households with low incomes could spend three times as much of their after-tax income on apparel compared to wealthier consumers.

To start, U.S. apparel rates (generally, the pricing structure associated with clothing items) are currently 14.7%.

Trump’s more modest tariff proposal would more than double that rate to 37.5%, while the extreme version of Trump’s tariff plan would move the apparel rate to 56%.

Where would you see prices jump? Practically everywhere in retail.

• A $50 woman’s cotton sweater would cost $56 to $60
• A pair of $80 men’s jeans would cost $90 to $96
• Even bundling up for winter would be pricier; a $100 coat would cost $112 to $121 under a new tariff scenario

It’s worth noting that 63% of surveyed U.S. consumers said they supported tariffs on imported blue jeans if that meant it would increase employment and domestic production of jeans.

However, that support turned negative if tariffs were to make jeans $10 to $25 more expensive, according to public policy research organization the Cato Institute.

Shoe prices to climb higher

Have your eyes set on a pair of new shoes? According to NRF, footwear prices are projected to jump as high as 29% should Trump’s tariffs go into effect. That means consumers would pay nearly $32 for every new dollar earned by domestic footwear producers.

Before Trump’s tariffs, the average footwear tariff was 11.9%. Under a universal tariff policy, that rate would increase to 44.2% or 69.1%.

Where would you see prices spike?

• A $90 pair of athletic shoes would cost $106 to $116
• A $30 pair of girls’ Mary Janes would cost $35 to $39
• Some $48 women’s slippers could cost as much as $62

Travel goods would also see significant price increases from 13% to 22%. In other words:

• A $119 women’s travel bag would cost $134 to $145
• A $31 backpack could cost $4 to $7 more

Furniture and household item prices are set to spike

If you’re furnishing a new house or apartment, that’s going to cost more, too.

Before Trump’s tariffs, furniture rates averaged 5.4%, mostly on Chinese imports. Raising tariffs on these goods would hike that rate to 32.8% or as high as 54.3%.

How much could prices soar for typical household items?

• A $2,000 mattress and box spring set would cost $2,128 to $2,190
• A $200 crib could cost $13 to $19 more
• A $1,500 mid-tier couch price would jump by $49 to $143

Overall, the additional furniture prices would cost families $8.5 billion to $13 billion annually.

Cost of household appliances will rise further

Before the Trump administration’s blanket tariffs kicked in, U.S. tariffs on home appliances sat at an average rate of 3.7%.

The NRF found that some of Trump’s proposed tariff plans would spike those rates by 38.5% or 65.1%.

These costs would impact everyday appliances such as refrigerators, washers, dryers, food processors, toasters, hair dryers and more.

What does that mean for your wallet? The average price of a household appliance would increase by 19% to 31%. That translates to about $6 billion to $11 billion more in spending for U.S. households. Breaking it down, that means:

• A $40 toaster oven would be priced from $59 to $64
• A basic $650 refrigerator would cost you $776 to $852

Once again, low-income households would be hit the hardest — spending four times as much of their after-tax income compared with wealthier families.

Toy prices could see the largest price spike

Shopping for the holidays or a child’s birthday would become more expensive, too.

The NRF warned that toy prices could increase by 36% or 56% under some of Trump’s plans, which could reduce overall purchases by 48% and 61%, respectively.

• A $25 board game would cost $34 - $39
• A $50 tricycle would increase to $68 or $78
• A $17 plush toy would jump in price from $23 to $27

‘Prices higher than many consumers would be willing to pay’

Tariffs on imported goods are paid by domestic businesses, which generally pass the extra cost to U.S. consumers. These measures might increase revenue but would result in less economic activity. They also don’t account for retaliatory measures other countries might place on the United States.

According to experts, Trump’s original plans to impose global tariffs might not be sustainable for everyday consumers as prices of food, gas, clothes, and electronics climb. The revenue gained would not be enough to support subsidizing child care or pay down the national debt, as the president suggested.

“The additional costs associated with [Trump’s] tariff plan would be too large for U.S. retailers to absorb and, when passed on to consumers, would result in prices higher than many consumers would be willing to pay,” NRF researchers argue in the report.

The National Retail Federation expects that the tariff proposals would increase a typical household’s costs by $362 to $624 each year. While tariffs would drive some revenue, consumer spending would surpass those gains, reducing U.S. GDP by up to $50 billion.

“Some consumers would stop purchasing the items and demand would fall,” the NRF researchers wrote.

While the proposed Trump tariffs would inevitably increase domestic production and manufacturing of these retail goods, the result would be more costly to U.S. consumers.

That’s one big factor to keep in mind as you plan your expenses this year.

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Whether you’re heading to a white elephant gift exchange, holiday celebration or dinner with friends, you don’t want to show up empty-handed.

The good news is you don’t have to break the bank to have fun and spread a little cheer.

Shopping early can help you get ahead of the game, and retailers such as Walmart, Amazon, Costco and Target make it easy to snag great last-minute Christmas deals without overspending.

Here are our picks for the 20 best White Elephant Christmas gifts under $25 for the season.

Amazon gifts under $25

• Shop all Amazon gifts under $25
• Burt's Bees Classic Set of 6 Products in Giftable Tin - $21.06
• Thymes Frasier Fir Pine Needle Candle – $16
• Portable Bluetooth Speaker with Lights - $21.99
• Rechargeable Electric Hand Warmers - $14.99
• Bonsai Starter Gardening Kit - $18.99

Best Buy gifts under $25

• Shop all Best Buy Gifts Under $25
• Energizer Universal Portable Battery Charger/Power Bank - $14.99
• Roku Streaming Stick with Voice Remote - $19.99
• Amazon Echo Pop (1st Generation) Smart Speaker with Alexa - $21.99
• Amazon Fire TV Stick with Alexa Voice Remote - $18.99
• Targus Travel Power Adapters - $16.49

Target gifts under $25

• Shop all Target deals under $25
• Green Simply Grateful Journal: Guided Notebook for Women - $10.40
• LifeStraw Personal Water Filter - $17.52
• Disposable Camera - heyday™ Flower - $17.99
• UNO Attack Card Game Card Launcher - $21.99
• Stanley 12oz Stainless Steel Classic Legendary Mug - $23

Walmart gifts under $25

• Shop all Walmart gifts under $25
• Starbucks Limited Edition 24oz Tumbler with Vanilla Iced Coffee K-Cup Pod - $19.54
• Inspirational Natural Soy Wax Essential Oil Infused Scented Christmas Candle - $17.99
• LEGO Botanicals Happy Plants - $18.39
• Movie Night for Two Microwave Popcorn and Candy Assortment Gift Set - $14.88
• The Modern Gourmet World Wide Hot Sauce 25pk Gift Set - $19.54

Don’t forget … you can always buy a gift card for that special person, but admit it, opening up a package wrapped in bright and sparkly paper is so much nicer! Hurry, the holidays are right around the corner.

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Shopping Black Friday deals for your business can help you get more for your money and might even lower your 2023 tax bill. But the rules for deducting business expenses can be complex, and not everything on sale this holiday season qualifies as tax write-off. 

Here are the best Black Friday deals of 2023 and what you should know about claiming what you buy as a tax deduction.

Black Friday deals for your business: What to know before you buy

Before we get into the best Black Friday deals, it helps to know what expenses the IRS allows self-employed taxpayers to deduct from their income. To be considered a business expense, your purchases must be ordinary (common and accepted in your industry) and necessary (helpful and appropriate for your business). Here are a few other things to keep in mind:

• Expenses must be purchased and used solely for your business to claim 100% of the cost.
• You may be able to deduct a portion of expenses used both for personal and business purposes.
• If your business expenses are more than your income, you may be able to apply your net operating loss (NOL) to future years.

Because IRS tax rules for businesses can be complex, and individual situations differ, it’s a good idea to consult a tax professional. Professionals can help you make the most of your write-offs while following the IRS’ rules and avoiding audit red flags.

Okay, now let's dig into the deals.

Black Friday Best Buy deals for 2023

Computers and laptops are some of the most common home office expenses for the self-employed. And it just so happens they are some of the most common items on sale during Black Friday events. Here’s how much you can save when purchasing these electronics at Best Buy:

• You can save up to $500 on select Windows laptops.
• Chromebooks start as low as $129.
• The MacBook Air 15 is $200 off.

According to Best Buy, products on sale are subject to change, and inventory is limited. 

Best Black Friday 2023 Apple Watch deal 

The IRS hasn't taken a stand on whether some portion of your Apple Watch qualifies as a deductible business expense. However, some tax professionals suggest that it could, depending on how you use the watch and how you prove and document that use. Still, if you’ve had your eye on the Apple Watch 9, you’re in luck. 

Walmart and Amazon are offering the device at $70 off, making it more affordable than ever. However, it will still cost you a few hundred dollars. Thankfully, Black Friday deals don’t end with the newest model.

• The Apple Watch SE (second generation) will go on sale for $179 at Walmart on November 22.
• Starting Nov. 24, Apple is offering a $75 gift card with the purchase of an Apple Watch SE, which starts at $249.

Apple will also offer gift cards, up to $200, on select Apple purchases during the sales event. Eligible purchases include certain MacBooks, iPads, and iPhones. All these items could qualify as tax write-offs. Just remember you can only deduct the expenses related to your business. So, consult a tax professional if you're unsure and keep track of how much you use the devices for your business vs. for personal use.

Dyson Black Friday sales 

Did you know that cleaning supplies you use for your home office qualify as business expenses? That includes appliances, such as vacuums, mops, and steam cleaners. It may seem silly to purchase supplies just for your home office. But remember that you don’t have to. You can use the supplies in other parts of your home, too. That just means you can only claim a portion of the expense (how much you use the supplies for your home office vs. the rest of your home). 

The IRS doesn’t care which brand you buy, but if you love Dyson products, now is a good time to buy.

• You can save $250 on the Dyson V12 Detect Slim™ Absolute.
• The Dyson Gen5detect Absolute is $200 off.
• Save $250 on a Dyson Purifier Hot+Cool purifying fan heater. (Yes, fans and heaters for your home office are tax-deductible, too).

Items that don’t qualify as a tax write-off

Not everything you buy during Black Friday and Cyber Monday sales will qualify as tax write-offs. As stated, the expense must be necessary and ordinary for your business. 

For example, hair-styling appliances and towels generally wouldn't be considered tax-deductible if you don't own a salon or other business where those appliances and supplies are integral. Here are a few other common items on sale this holiday season that don’t typically qualify as a business expense.

• Streaming services, such as Paramount Plus and Netflix
• TVs
• A phone plan for your personal phone
• Toys that you gift as presents 

Although not everything on sale qualifies as a deductible business expense, you might just find a little room in the budget to splurge on items for personal use with all the money you’ll save on your tax bill.

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It’s not very often you get a great deal on a streaming service like HBO's Max, but you’re in luck. For Black Friday and Cyber Monday, the streaming service now costs only $2.99 per month for six months (the regular price is $9.99 per month).

That’s a saving of $42, or 70% off of Max’s ad-supported plan for half a year of streaming. But this deal won’t last forever. The offer ends December 2 at 11:59 pm EST. At such a low price, you can even wrap up a subscription for yourself without feeling guilty.

Max Black Friday Sale Info

• Eligibility: New and returning subscribers. Current Max subscribers are not eligible
• Max with ads subscription auto-renews at $9.99/month or then-current regular monthly price once the promotional period is over
• It allows for streaming on two devices at once and is available in HD.
• Offer ends at 11.59 ET, December 2, 2024
• You can cancel at any time during the promotional period

What does Max offer?

Max has some great shows, such as Curb Your Enthusiasm, The Penguin, House of the Dragon, The Gilded Age, and old favorites like Friends and Veep. The streamer also has a vast library of movies — releases from its Warner Bros. studio Furiosa, Dune 2, Wonka and Civil War as well as films from its Turner Classic Movie Collection (settle down to Casablanca, perhaps, after some well-earned turkey.)

Plus, for a limited time after subscribing, you'll get Max’s B/R Sports Add-On for free. This includes live games and matches from the NBA, NHL, NCAA March Madness, MLB™, and U.S. Soccer.

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• Get the Disney Plus and Hulu Bundle

Streaming discounts don’t come around often, and Black Friday is usually the only window when big platforms cut prices. Grabbing this offer now lets you lock in savings for the next 12 months, long after the holiday hype fades.

This year’s Black Friday sale brings one of the strongest streaming offers yet. From November 25 through December 1, new and eligible returning subscribers can get the Disney+ and Hulu Bundle (With Ads) for $4.99 a month for a year.

This year’s bundle unlocks even more value through exclusive perks across both platforms. Disney+ launches its 12 Days of Disney+ Perks on Dec. 1 with new limited-time offers daily, while Hulu debuts its own set of holiday perks rolling out through December. These bonuses make the $4.99 bundle one of the most compelling entertainment deals of the season.

What the Disney+ and Hulu Bundle Includes

• Disney+ and Hulu (With Ads) for $4.99 a month for 12 months
• More than a year of savings worth over $95
• Thousands of movies, shows, originals and holiday specials
• Bundled perks, including 12 Days of Disney+ Perks and new Hulu holiday perks
• Access to Hulu content within Disney+ for bundle subscribers in the U.S.
• Holiday Movies, New Releases and December Premieres

The combined Disney+ and Hulu library brings together family classics, comfort rewatches and entertaining premieres for 2025. Expect holiday staples plus new originals, franchise favorites, and star-driven releases that land just in time for winter break viewing.

Holiday classics include:

• Home Alone
• The Santa Clause
• The Polar Express*

Newer hits and originals:

• Freakier Friday
• Marvel Studios’ The Fantastic Four: First Steps
• All’s Fair*
• The Secret Lives of Mormon Wives*

Major December releases:

• Percy Jackson and the Olympians Season 2 – Dec. 10
• Taylor Swift’s two-part Eras Tour projects – Dec. 12

*Available via Hulu on Disney+ for bundle subscribers in the U.S.

Upcoming Holiday Programming on Disney+ and Hulu

Black Friday is one of the only times streaming services actually go on sale, which makes this year’s bundle deal an easy way to save long after the holidays.

Once you’re signed up, you’ll have access to a deep lineup of seasonal favorites and new premieres. December brings the second season of Percy Jackson and the Olympians on Dec. 10 and two Taylor Swift projects arriving Dec. 12 — a six-part Eras Tour docuseries and a filmed version of the tour’s final show.

The holiday programming doesn’t stop there. Disney+ and Hulu are releasing a full calendar of festive specials, premieres and seasonal events all month long.

Holiday Lineup by Date

Tuesday, December 2

• Dancing with the Holidays – Streams at 8 pm ET. A festive edition of Dancing with the Stars featuring seasonal routines and live musical performances.

Wednesday, December 3

• CMA Country Christmas – Filmed in Nashville, the 16th annual special features holiday performances from major country artists. Hosted by Lauren Daigle and Jordan Davis.

Friday, December 5

• The Great Christmas Light Fight Season 13 – Families compete for the $50,000 grand prize and the Light Fight trophy as Carter Oosterhouse judges this year’s displays.
• Mickey & Minnie’s Holiday Songs – Cheerful stop-motion sing-along shorts with Mickey, Minnie and friends.

Wednesday, December 10

• Kevin Costner Presents: The First Christmas – A special hosted by Kevin Costner that explores the journey of Mary and Joseph and the origins of Christmas.

Thursday, December 25 – Christmas Day on Disney+

• NBA: Cavaliers at Knicks – 12 pm ET
• Dunk the Halls – A real-time, animated NBA game
• Disney Parks Magical Christmas Day Parade – The annual Emmy Award-winning parade returns with performances from Disney parks in Florida, California and Hawai‘i.

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• Get Paramount+ Black Friday Deal

Black Friday sales season is underway. This is the time of year when you can score significant discounts on electronics, home appliances and streaming deals.

We're seeing Black Friday deals from Amazon, Costco, Walmart, and Target begin earlier than ever this year, and you can expect to see offers roll out all the way until Cyber Monday (and beyond).

A Kiplinger favorite, Paramount+, has launched its newest deal, offering new and former users a choice of subscriptions for just $2.99 per month for the first two months. We'll break down how the deal works, what you receive with each plan and what to consider once the deal expires.

How to score Paramount+ Black Friday offer

Streaming services are once again getting in on the holiday promotions this year. Deals and discounts are pretty rare in this space. Services like Disney+, Peacock and other entertainment streamers usually only have sales two or three times a year, so when they arrive, it's cause for celebration.

On the fence about whether a subscription is worth it? With this deal, you can try two months of Paramount+ for just $2.99 (either the Essential Plan or Paramount Premium), long enough to decide if what's on offer is right for you.

So, if you've been looking for an alternative streaming service, now's a great time to test out Paramount+ for a fraction of its original cost. And if you decide it's not a good fit for you, you can cancel the service at any time with minimal out-of-pocket expense.

Here's what to know about the Black Friday deal

• Both Paramount+ offers run for 2 months
• After the discounted period is over, you'll pay the full amount, but you are free to cancel at any time
• This deal is only open to new and former Paramount+ members
• For the Paramount+ Premium plan, use the promo code BFCMP
• For Paramount+ Essential, use the promo code BFCME

How to claim your Paramount+ Black Friday Deal

• Head to Paramount's website to sign up for a subscription
• Click on the “Get Started” button and create an account using your email address and password.
• Pick the plan that suits your needs. The Essential plan and the Premium plan are part of this Black Friday offer
• During checkout, make sure you add your promo code (BF-ESS or BF-ADFREE) to the “Promo Code” field and click “Apply” to activate the discount. Make sure the final price is correct and reflects the deal
• Complete the process by entering your payment details and confirming your subscription. You’ll receive an email confirmation shortly after

Paramount+ Essential plan

With a Paramount+ Essential account, you'll have access to thousands of TV shows from Justin Hartley in Tracker to Kathy Bates as Matlock, new movies like IF and A Quiet Place, and some live sports, including NFL on CBS and UEFA Champions League.

With this subscription, however, you won't have access to your local live CBS station, so you'll have to forgo watching any CBS shows when they air live. However, sports fans will love the inclusion of some NFL games and UEFA soccer matches.

Paramount+ Premium plan

With the Paramount+ Premium plan, you'll not only have access to popular SHOWTIME original titles like Yellowjackets, Dexter: New Blood and Fellow Travelers, but you'll also be able to access your local CBS station, enjoy ad-free viewing and download movies and TV to watch on the go, something you're not able to do with a Paramount+ Essential subscription.

Other benefits of the service include the ability to stream on-demand titles without ads. Furthermore, you can stream your favorite programs in rich, lifelike graphics with 4K UHD, Dolby Vision 10 or HDR 10 capabilities.

The bottom line on Paramount+ Black Friday deal

Black Friday isn't only a good time to upgrade a household appliance or a device. It also marks an excellent time to save on a streaming service.

If you're considering Paramount+, this is a great time to do so. You'll save $20 over two months with the Premium plan, and it gives you access to the best the platform has to offer.

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• Black Friday Tips to Score Deals

Pre-pandemic and before some stores got all haughty, some of us went to malls and strip shopping centers in the wee hours of the Friday after Thanksgiving to ensure we were FIRST (or close) in line to get those discounts during Black Friday Store Hours. And, by gum, we liked it!

If you’re one of those nostalgic for a mosh pit in a retail setting, don’t despair. You can still don your comfy, warm clothes and pack your lawn chair for a good old-fashioned sit and wait. Many physical stores haven’t given up the ghost of Christmas past and will offer early Black Friday openings on Friday, November 29th. That’s even after big boxers like Best Buy, Costco, Target and Walmart, launched Black Friday deals weeks before Thanksgiving, after the colossus of retail, Amazon, kicked off holiday shopping in October with its Prime Big Deal Days Sale.

Thanksgiving opening hours
Most stores are closed on Thanksgiving (a trend toward retail opening on Thanksgiving from a few years back met with significant backlash) though Kroger stores, Starbucks and Bass Pro Shops (9 a.m. to 6 p.m.) and Big Lots (7 a.m. to 9 p.m.) are open on Turkey Day.

Black Friday store opening hours

After checking through this list of stores that are opening early on Black Friday make sure you also take a peek at our tips for shopping smart on Black Friday and Cyber Monday. The first rule for smart shopping: Check with your local store before heading out to the sales — times may vary by location, especially with stores that are franchised, or in malls.

Remember: No cutting in line. Be nice to your fellow consumers. No trampling.

• Ace Hardware: 7:30 a.m. for most locations
• Apple: Regular location hours
• Bass Pro Shops: 5 a.m.
• Bath & Body Works: 6 a.m.
• Belk: 7 a.m.
• Best Buy: 6 a.m.
• Big Lots: 6 a.m.
• BJ’s Wholesale Club: 7 a.m.
• Boscov’s: 6 a.m.
• Burlington/Burlington Coat Factory: 7 a.m. at certain locations
• Cabela’s: TBD
• Costco: 9 a.m. (an hour earlier)
• Dick’s Sporting Goods: 6 a.m. for most locations
• Dillard’s: 6 a.m. at select locations
• Dollar Tree: 8 a.m.
• Dollar General: 7 a.m.
• DSW: 10 a.m. for most locations
• Family Dollar: 8 a.m.
• Five Below: 8 a.m.
• GameStop: 5 a.m.
• Gap: 8 a.m. at select locations
• Guitar Center : 6 a.m.
• Harbor Freight: 7 a.m.
• Home Depot: 6 a.m.
• HomeGoods: 7 a.m.
• IKEA : 10 a.m.
• J.C. Penney: 5 a.m.
• Jo-Ann: 6 a.m.
• Kohl’s: 5 a.m.
• Lowe’s: 6 a.m.
• Macy’s: 6 a.m.
• Marshall's: 7 a.m.
• Meijer: 6 a.m.
• Menards: 6 a.m.
• Michael’s: 7 a.m.
• Nordstrom: 9 a.m.
• Office Depot: 9 a.m.
• Old Navy: 5 a.m.
• Petco: 8 a.m.
• PetSmart: 7 a.m.
• REI: C’mon now. Take a hike.
• Sam's Club: 10 a.m.
• Staples: 9 a.m.
• Target: 6 a.m.
• T.J. Maxx: 7 a.m.
• Tractor Supply: TBD
• Ulta Beauty: 6 a.m.
• Victoria’s Secret: 6 a.m.
• Walmart: 6 a.m.

Cyber Monday is here and it's an excellent time to save on holiday gift-giving. The retail giant is rolling out millions of discounts across top categories, including home, electronics, beauty and apparel.

Shoppers can score major savings on holiday essentials this year, think up to 50% off Amazon devices and select electronics.

We’ve highlighted the strongest Cyber Monday offers available now. Stock is limited and prices can change without notice, so you may want to snag the deals you want before they disappear.

Electronics deals

• Shop all Cyber Monday deals at Amazon
• INSIGNIA 50" Class F50 Series LED 4K UHD Smart Fire TV — Save 57%, now $129.99
• Apple 2025 MacBook Air 13-inch Laptop with M4 chip — Save 21%, now $949
• SAMSUNG Galaxy Watch 7 40mm Bluetooth AI Smartwatch — Gone
• Blink Outdoor 4 Wireless smart security camera — Save 60%, now $51.99
• INSIGNIA 65-inch Class F50 Series LED 4K UHD Smart Fire TV — Gone
• Amazon Fire TV Soundbar Plus — Save 40%, now $149.99
• New Amazon Fire HD 8 Kids Pro tablet — Save 54%, now $64.99
• EF ECOFLOW Portable Power Station Delta 2 — Save 50%, now $349.99
• Bose QuietComfort Headphones - Wireless Bluetooth Headphones — Save 43%, now $199.99
• Garmin Forerunner 165, Running Smartwatch — Save 20%, now $199.99
• Amazon Echo Spot — Save 38%, now $49.99
• Oura Ring 4 - Gold — Save 30%, now $349
• Google Pixel 10 - Unlocked — Save 25%, now $599
• Fitbit Versa 4 Fitness Smartwatch — Save 40%, now $119.95

Homewares deals

• Govee RGBIC Floor Lamp, LED Corner Lamp Works with Alexa — Save 45%, now only $54.99
• iRobot Roomba 105 Vac Robot Vacuum — Save 50%, now $149
• GTPLAYER Gaming Chair, Computer Chair with Footrest and Lumbar Support — Save 34%, now $98.99
• Keurig K-Supreme Single Serve K-Cup Pod Coffee Maker — Save 43%, now $109
• 23andMe Health + Ancestry Service — Save 51%, now $98
• Shark AI Ultra Voice-Controlled Robot Vacuum — Save 58%, now $249.99
• Philips 3200 Series Fully Automatic Espresso Machine — Save 44%, now $449.99
• Ninja CREAMi Scoop & Swirl Ice Cream and Soft Serve Maker — Save 20%, now $279.99
• Cuisinart 17-Piece Cookware Set — Save 46%, now $167.99
• Dyson Hot+Cool™ AM09 Jet Focus heater and fan — Save 40%, now $299.99

Outdoors deals

• Giraffe Tools Retractable Garden Hose Reel 1/2 Inch x 130 ft — Save 24%, now $148.95
• Ring Floodlight Cam Wired Plus — Save 44%, now $99.99
• Govee Outdoor String Lights H7015 with 15 Dimmable RGBIC LED Bulbs — Save 40%, now $35.99
• eufy Security Floodlight Cam S330, 360-Degree Pan & Tilt Coverage — Save 43%, now $199.98
• Adam's Polishes Premium Foam Gun - Car Wash Foam Gun for Garden Hose — Save 40%, now $44.99
• TEEHO TE001 Keyless Entry Door Lock with Keypad - Smart Deadbolt Lock for Front Door — Save 24%, now $32.78
• DEWALT 20V MAX Cordless Drill Driver Set — Save 45%, now $99

Shop small, shop smarter, and catch exclusive Cyber Monday entertainment

Amazon is spotlighting independent sellers this season through its Small Business Holiday Shop, where you can browse unique, curated gifts across several categories. Look for the Small Business Badge and themed gift guides to easily find one-of-a-kind items from local makers and small brands.

Shoppers can also tap into Rufus, Amazon’s AI shopping assistant, to simplify holiday browsing. Rufus offers personalized recommendations and can surface the best deals based on your shopping history or wish lists. Just ask, “What are the best deals for me?” during Black Friday Week and Cyber Monday to get tailored savings.

For entertainment seekers, Prime Video will broadcast 15 hours of live sports on Black Friday — no membership required.

Coverage starts at 6 a.m. PST with the return of the PGA TOUR Skins Game, followed by the Black Friday NFL matchup between the Philadelphia Eagles and Chicago Bears, and wraps with an NBA doubleheader featuring the Bucks, Knicks, Mavericks and Lakers.

Amazon Prime members now have access to over 300 million items with free Prime shipping, including tens of millions that are eligible for Same-Day or One-Day Delivery in more than 9,000 U.S. cities and towns. With millions of products arriving as fast as today, Prime can make last-minute holiday shopping significantly easier.

If you’re not a member, Amazon offers several ways to join. A standard Prime membership costs $14.99 per month or $139 per year, and eligible customers can start with a free 30-day trial.

Young adults aged 18–24 can get a six-month trial for $0, followed by a discounted rate of $7.49 per month or $69 per year. Qualifying government-assistance recipients can sign up for Prime Access for $6.99 per month.

Related Content

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• The Best Amazon Prime Benefits and Perks
• How Much Does Amazon Prime Cost (And Is It Worth It?)
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Shoppers are gearing up to open their wallets wide this holiday season. Consumers plan to spend an average $890.49 per person on gifts, food, decorations and other seasonal items, according to the National Retail Federation’s annual survey.

Most of that spending will go toward gifts for family and friends at $627.93. The remaining $262.56 is expected to cover everything from festive meals to wrapping paper, greeting cards and home décor as people prepare for gatherings and celebrations.

With so much money in play, Black Friday and Cyber Monday remain key opportunities to stretch your budget. This makes it worth checking what the biggest retailers are offering right now so you can take advantage of early savings.

• Amazon's Black Friday deals
• Costco's Black Friday deals
• Target's Black Friday deals
• Walmart's Black Friday deals

However you choose to shop, we’re offering some guidance for smart shopping on both days and throughout the busy retail season. Have at it.

1. Remember the Black Friday and shopping day basics

Start with the basics: Black Friday is traditionally for in-store shopping, Cyber Monday is for online shopping.

And don't forget about Small Business Saturday (shop at local small businesses) and Giving Tuesday (time to make donations - which you can use for charitable tax deductions).

The deals are definitely on now, but you need to be cautious. Check price tags and asterisks carefully to be fully aware of the discounts on offer. Even if you're in the store, you can pull out your phone to check prices and offers.

The tradition of heading out on Thanksgiving Day to snag early Black Friday deals appears to be fading. Most major retailers are keeping their doors closed on Thanksgiving day and shifting their offers online. If you like to get an early start, it is smart to check the retailer’s website or call ahead to confirm store hours before you show up.

It also pays to join loyalty programs and sign up for emails. Many retailers offer exclusive deals or early access to members. Walmart gives Walmart+ members five hours of early access online beginning November 24 at 7 p.m. ET. On Cyber Monday Walmart+ members get the same early window beginning November 30 at 7 p.m. ET.

 2. You’d better shop around  

It’s a given to know your prices going into your bargain hunt, but in the thrill of the chase, sometimes people forget.

“You'll want to shop around for a couple of reasons,” says Julie Ramhold, consumer analyst at DealNews. “First, to make sure you're getting the best price, obviously, but also to see if other retailers are offering extra perks with their deals. For instance, many may be offering a product at the same price, but you may be able to save more with coupons, rebates, or store credit, which would push one retailer out in front of the others and ensure you'll save even more.”

Don't put all your buys in one shopping basket: Check multiple stores, as time allows.

3. Smart shoppers have a plan (and a backup plan)

Panic shopping could force you to buy something you really didn’t want to buy or force you to step out of your financial comfort zone. Or both.

For this reason, plan ahead and tackle Black Friday with a shopping list — and budget — in mind. Knowing what you’re looking for and how much you’re willing to spend before you start shopping can help you score the best deals, avoid overspending and simplify your shopping experience. Plus, it gives you time to plan accordingly if any items are unavailable.

Out-of-stock products could still be an issue for shoppers, especially on popular items (gaming devices on Cyber Monday, for example).

“Whether you're worried about items selling out or discounts not being what you need, it's good to have a backup plan in place,” says Ramhold. “That way, you have something in mind to shop for if your first choice doesn't work out for whatever reason, and you won't have to worry about panic shopping the big sales and potentially buying something that you'll regret later.”

4. Use cash-back apps and browser extensions  

Honing your cybershopping skills can save you money.

Ramhold says, “Using cash back apps and browser extensions is one way to make sure you save at least a little something on your shopping. Even if the rates are on the lower side, if you use the apps and extensions enough the cash back will add up over time and you may receive a significant check at the end of the season.”

Here’s her guidance:

• Review price histories using CamelCamelCamel.com to see what an item has sold for previously, up to 120 days prior.
• Compare competitor prices using the PriceBlink tool so you don't miss out on any better deals, even from sites you wouldn't have thought to check.
• Beware of derivative doorbusters — off-brand electronics or models made for holiday sales may be missing key components and features or made of cheap material to keep prices low.
• Research potential purchases (by model number, even) to figure out whether they have been offered all year long. Reviews on trusted sites can help you make sure you're getting what you want.
• Compare coupons in one place using a deal aggregator like CouponCabin.com.
• Be cautious about rebate promotions – if you’re giving a gift, for example, you’re unlikely to be able to claim it if you have to do something like cut out a barcode from the product packaging. Instead, opt for a smaller discount from a retailer offering instant savings and earn a rebate by using a cash back app like Fetch, which gives you free gift cards for snapping pictures of your receipts.
• Set sale alerts using Paypal Honey Droplist or SlickDeals and track price drops even after purchase, as you may be eligible for a price adjustment through the store or credit card you bought it with.
• Skip store credit card offers — they have high-interest rates and expensive fees, and low credit limits rarely outweigh the rewards offered (which are generally linked just to that retailer.) You're better off using a general-use cash back credit card that can earn you more back over the entire holiday season than whatever amount you'd save in a single transaction.

5. Know which sales to skip

Not everything is a good buy at sales time, of course. We’ve already offered you some tools to figure out if a seemingly good buy is really a good buy. Here are a few more things to skip:

Avoid buying clothing, beauty and footwear on Black Friday. These are best to buy on Cyber Monday. Look for coupon codes to save more via text alerts, email newsletters or coupon sites.

Some items are better to wait on. Toys usually see deeper markdowns in the last two weeks of December and winter apparel often hits its lowest prices in the days just before Christmas and immediately after. Bedding and linen are worth holding off on until the new year when January white sales bring the best discounts.

6. Stores to hit for Black Friday and Cyber Monday shopping 

Malls and shopping centers remain popular stops for early-rising shoppers on Black Friday and Cyber Monday, but it helps to think beyond those traditional destinations.

Big box stores often offer strong promotions throughout the holiday weekend and are worth a closer look. Members of Costco, Sam’s Club or BJ’s should check the stores’ ad circulars to see what is planned for Cyber Weekend since these retailers frequently roll out significant deals.

Small Business Saturday, held the day after Thanksgiving, is also a good opportunity to find deals at local retailers. Created by American Express in 2010 and supported by the Small Business Administration, the event encourages shoppers to spend money in their own communities and support the small businesses that keep local economies thriving.

7. Shopping tips specifically for Cyber Monday 

Cyber Monday is the junior of the two big holiday shopping launch days. It picked up its name, courtesy of the National Retail Federation, in 2005, and it’s been a focal point of the holiday season ever since.

Cyber Monday can be challenging if you are not familiar with typical prices or feel uncertain about buying tech online. These strategies can help you shop with confidence:

• Save payment and shipping info on sites (possibly by creating an account) ahead of time so you can jump on hot-selling items that might sell out.
• Set sale alerts using Honey's DropList for items that will go on sale at different times of the day.
• Install browser tools like Cently that automatically add coupons and cash back.
• Avoid delivery delays and potential order cancellations by opting to buy online and pick up in store. Many retailers, including Walmart and Target, are building out areas on the store property dedicated specifically for BOPIS — buy online, pickup in store — shoppers.
• Find out if your credit card is offering cash back or extra points for select stores.
• Beware of free shipping minimums designed to get you to buy more. Buy from stores that offer no-minimum free shipping.
• Refrain from buying items that require mail-in rebates as part of the deal. It's tedious, many things could go wrong and you don't receive cash back in a timely fashion.
• Review return policies to avoid restocking fees and return shipping fees.
• Keep your data safe! Shop on a secure network, only buy from reputable retailers you are familiar with, use virtual cards (credit card providers like Capital One offer these) and don’t click links from emails you don’t know.
• Track online orders to avoid package theft. Often, retailers will provide tracking numbers you can use on the major delivery company sites.

Related Content

• Check Out Walmart Black Friday Deals
• Shop Target's Black Friday Deals
• Holiday Tipping Guide: Who to Tip (And How Much?)

Walmart Cyber Monday deals are here. The retailer announced a one-day savings event on Monday, December 1, with fresh online markdowns across popular categories.

You can find all of these deals online. Whether you're looking to save on a new computer, coffee maker, or something fashionable, Walmart can help you save up to hundreds of dollars.

Inventory is often limited and great deals disappear fast. We cut through the clutter to show you which markdowns are actually worth your time.

In addition to these savings, you can save more money with a Walmart+ membership. Prepaid Walmart+ members also received early access to Cyber Monday deals.

Walmart Cyber Monday deals

We're updating these deals regularly to ensure you have access to the best ones:

Electronics

• Shop all Walmart deals
• Apple AirPods 4 — Save $50, now $79.99
• Apple Watch SE (2nd Gen) — Save $120, now $159
• HP OmniBook 5 16-inch 2K Touch Laptop — Save $320, now $479
• TCL 43” Class S4 4K UHD HDR Smart TV with Roku TV— Save $140, now $138
• Oura Ring 4 — Save $100, now $249
• VIZIO 2.0 Soundbar w/ Dolby Atmos, DTS:X, Bluetooth — Save $51.99, now $48

Home and Kitchen

• Keurig K-Duo Essentials, Hot & Iced Single-Serve K-Cup Pod Coffee Maker & Carafe — Save $50, now $79
• Thyme & Table 20-Piece Knife Set — Save $71.09, now $24.97
• The Pioneer Woman 32-Piece Nonstick Cookware and Kitchen Utensil Set — Save $52, now $97
• KitchenAid 5.5 Quart Bowl Lift Stand Mixer, Contour Silver — Save $200.01, now $299.98
• Ninja Grand Kitchen System — Save $70, now $99
• Shark Pro Cordless Stick Vacuum, Carpets & Hardfloors — Save $94.01, now $196

Travel

• Tripcomp Luggage Sets 4 Piece, Lightweight Carry on Luggage suitcase Set — Save $300, now $99.99
• JLab JBuds Lux Active Noise Cancellation Bluetooth Headphones— Save $30, now $49.99
• 10,000mAh Portable Charger with Built-in Cables — Save $142, now $17.99
• DAKIMOE Travel Duffle Bag — Save $16.99, now $16
• Air Tracker Tag, Bluetooth Item Finder-4Pack — Save $33.10, now $26.89

Clothes and Accessories

• Michael Kors Women’s Jet Set Large Saffiano Leather Shoulder Bag, Bright Red — Save $250, now $89
• Cate & Chloe Bianca 18k White Gold Plated 25mm Hoop Earrings with Swarovski Crystals for Women — Save $101.01, now $13.99
• Fantaslook Plaid Flannel Shirts for Women Oversized Long Sleeve Button Down Shirts Blouses Tops — Save $16, now $11.99
• Ray-Ban RB3447N-001-53 Gold Round Sunglasses — Save $80.01, now $82.99
• Cate & Chloe Ariel 18k White Gold Plated Halo Jewelry Set with Simulated Diamonds Gift for Women — Save $195.01, now $24.99

Walmart Holiday Registry

Walmart has also launched a Holiday wish list where you can create your very own registry to effortlessly save all of your holiday needs and gift ideas in one place, which can be easily shared with loved ones and friends.

What’s more, Walmart is also introducing a Toy Registry, which lets you create your own toy wish list directly from the Top Toy List on Walmart.com.

Related Content

• Don’t Miss Costco's Black Friday Deals
• Walmart Shoppers Turn Out To Drive Up Quarterly Results
• Black Friday Discounts: Retailers With the Best Deals

As Thanksgiving rounds the corner, retailers are rolling out deep discounts on coveted products. Whether you choose to shop on Black Friday, Cyber Monday, or Small Business Saturday, you’d be standing with an 81% majority of consumers who plan to shop these major sales events. A recent survey from Bankrate uncovered this year’s holiday shopping trends and preferences among shoppers. 

Cyber Monday takes first place

Out of the 2300 adults Bankrate surveyed, almost two-thirds planned to shop the Cyber Monday sales. Another 61% were planning to take advantage of Small Business Saturday. Black Friday came in last at 56%. Shopping at small businesses has become increasingly popular compared to Black Friday. 

Last year’s survey results showed that 59% of consumers preferred to shop Small Business Saturday. 2023’s results are a small uptick from last year, but almost three-quarters of consumers are planning to include small businesses in their holiday shopping at some point this year, which is a 7% increase from 2022. 

Although the pull towards big box stores like Costco and Walmart is high, small businesses hold a few advantages in shoppers’ eyes. Almost all holiday shoppers (96%) reported that small businesses outperformed major retailers in at least one of the following areas:

•  Unique gift ideas: 56% 
•  Better customer service: 54% 
•  Building a sense of community: 44% 

So when are people planning to do their holiday shopping? In September, another Bankrate survey reported that half of respondents started making their holiday purchases before Halloween. The other half of respondents planned to check off their shopping lists between November and December. 

Bankrate’s Senior Industry Analyst, Ted Rossman shared his insight on these holiday shopping trends: “With Americans seemingly in a frugal mood this holiday season due to high inflation and high interest rates, I think this will be the best discounting season in years.” 

Which generation is snatching up deals? 

An overwhelming 92% of Millennials and Gen Z are likely to participate in these shopping events compared to older generations. Meanwhile, Gen X and Baby Boomers are somewhat less enthusiastic about the sales, with an 82% and 70% participation rate, respectively. No matter which generation you fall into, it’s likely that you’ll take part in at least some of these holiday sales. 

Online vs. in-person 

Although the pandemic helped popularize online shopping options, consumers are still planning to do an equal amount of shopping online and in stores. 72% of shoppers who responded to the survey shared plans to do some of their shopping online and the same amount shared plans of shopping partly in stores. 

As Americans were still recovering from pandemic shopping habits, last year’s in-store shopping was only recorded at 65%. Still, the convenience and ease of online shopping don’t seem to be budging anytime soon. 

“Most shoppers seem to be embracing an omnichannel strategy this holiday season – they’re planning to shop online and in-person and are likely to buy from large and small businesses,” Rossman added. “I think each type of shopping offers distinct advantages, and it makes sense for consumers to cast a wide net. Cost and convenience seem to be the biggest drivers this year, as supply chain and health concerns have faded away.” 

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• When Is Cyber Monday?

The Cyber Monday deals are coming in hot with savings of 50% or more on Best Buy Cyber Monday deals and more deep discounts at Target, Amazon and other retailers. But this year, some of our favorite Cyber Monday deals are at Costco.

If you’re a fan of savings on everything from electronics and jewelry to appliances and more, Costco’s Cyber Monday deals are a must-see. Shoppers can find sales both in-store and online.

While you’ll need a Costco membership to access these deals, the savings often outweigh the cost of joining and the membership could quickly pay for itself depending on your shopping list.

Don't have one yet? As an added holiday treat, you can get $40 to shop the sale with this Costco membership deal. That's even more savings to stack on top of these Cyber Monday deals.

Shop Costco's Cyber Monday deals

There are many more deals available both online and in-store for members this year. Below are a few of our favorite Cyber Monday deals offered by Costco.

• Shop all Costco Cyber Monday Deals
• Costco's Apple Savings Event is on now
• Save hundreds with Costco TV deals
• Appliances: Up to $2,000 off
• Jewelry: Up to $1,000 Off
• Furniture: Up to $600 Off

Best Cyber Monday tech deals at Costco

If you’re stuck in a tech dilemma — debating whether to upgrade your iPad or invest in a new laptop — Costco’s Black Friday and Cyber Monday deals might be the perfect chance to make your move.

With discounts on a range of products, it’s a great time to weigh the pros and cons of each option and get a deal.

One key advantage of buying from Costco is the generous return policy: You’ll have 90 days to decide if it’s the right fit, compared to Apple’s standard 14-day window.

• iPad Pro 11-inch, 512GB Wi-Fi (M4 chip), $900. Save $250
• Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds, $200. Save $70
• LG 65" Class - OLED AI B5 Series - 4K Smart TV, $1,000. Save $1,000
• MacBook Air Laptop (13-inch) - Apple M4 chip, $750. Save $200
• Lenovo IdeaPad 5, $550. Save $250
• Samsung 65" Class - QN90F Neo QLED Series - 4K TV, $1,500. Save $1,000

Best Costco deals in home and kitchen

• Caraway 24-piece Ceramic Non-stick Cookware Set, $700. Save $300
• Philips 3200 Series Full Auto Espresso Machine with LatteGo Milk Frother, $450. Save $280
• Roborock QX Revo Robot Vacuum and Mop with Multifunctional Dock, $430. Save $150
• Molecule Performance Sheet Set, $50. Save $15

Best holiday gifts on sale at Costco

• Blue Sapphire and Diamond 14kt White Gold Earrings, $900. Save $300
• Topgolf - Two $50 eGift Cards, $80. Save $20
• Burberry Goddess Eau de Parfum, 3.4 fl oz, $99. Save up to $100
• Nintendo eShop - Four $25 eGift Cards, $80. Save $20

Remember, at such low prices, Costco's deals move fast. So, if you want to get the very best deals this holiday shopping season, check back often.

Costco limits the number of items you can purchase on some items, and many are only available during a certain time. You also must be a Costco member to take advantage of most of these low holiday prices online or in warehouse.

Related content

• 20 Secrets to Shopping at Costco in 2025
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Tipping is not a uniquely American practice, but we tip more often and in larger amounts than in just about any other country. The practice is so established that many workers’ wages are based on the anticipation of tips.

Holiday tipping is also a traditional way to show gratitude to people who have provided you with a service throughout the year. At a time when inflation is high, you might need to adjust your giving a bit to compensate.

With the holidays fast approaching it's time to finalize your Nice List; decide whom to tip and how much to give them. Read on as we run through 15 categories of people in your life who might deserve a holiday tip.

Suggested tip: A small gift valued at no more than $20; definitely not cash.

While the Postal Service is no longer a federal agency per se, its employees still follow plenty of government rules and guidelines, and one of those covers tipping.

Cash is specifically excluded under the guidelines, but “carriers are permitted to accept a gift worth $20 or less from a customer per occasion, such as Christmas,” per USPS. That value hasn't changed in at least 10 years.

If you feel compelled to go higher, note this further caveat: Each worker can accept no more than the equivalent of $50 from any single individual in a calendar year. You could gift again on say, National Mail Carrier Day — Feb. 4.

What about gift cards? They are OK, as long as they have no cash value.

Suggested tip: $10 to $20 gift card or small thoughtful gift

FedEx drivers are prohibited by work rules from accepting tips. UPS drivers can accept tips but are encouraged to decline.

For these drivers, leaving a small care package with snacks or seasonal items, such as hand warmers or cooling towels, is a thoughtful way to show appreciation.

Amazon drivers are allowed to accept tips, though it’s not expected. Alternatively, you can send a “thank you” through the Amazon app or Alexa — a simple, nonmonetary gesture that lets your driver know their efforts are valued.

Suggested tip: $10 to $30.

If you use grocery delivery or curbside pick up services, consider a generous tip in recognition of the provider’s hard work this holiday season. A relatively new addition to our lives, grocery delivery and curbside pickup boomed during the pandemic and is here to stay.

“Think about giving a tip alongside a card during the holiday season, if you use curbside pick-up or grocery delivery regularly,” says Lizzie Post of the Emily Post Institute. Instacart users can tip their shopper in the app, but cash is also acceptable.

Suggested tip: $10 to $30.

Still subscribing to a hand-delivered print newspaper? Good for you! If you tip regularly throughout the year, give your newsie just a few dollars.

Instead of cash, you can give a small gift, according to the Emily Post Institute.

Some newspapers, such as The Washington Post, let you tip your delivery person online through your subscriber account. Even if you go digital with your tip, you might consider giving your carrier a nice note — both to express your appreciation and to ensure they know you tipped them.

Suggested tip: $10 to $30 each.

You might hear them coming and going every trash day. But instead of rolling over and hitting the snooze button, around this time of year, consider throwing on your fuzzy slippers and bathrobe and catching some face time with your trash collectors.

First check on the rules for your municipality. Some jurisdictions forbid workers from accepting cash, according to the Emily Post Institute. If unsure, a care package or thank-you note is a safe alternative.

Suggested tip: A thoughtful gift.

As with the letter carriers, cash is a no-go for teachers. But a small gift accompanied by a note or drawing from your child is a nice thank-you for an educator's hard work.

Pool your resources with other parents to buy the teacher a gift card. First check the policies of your child's school: If gifts are forbidden, a note of appreciation is always appropriate.

Suggested tip: The cost of one visit.

This amount is considered fitting if he or she visits weekly or biweekly, says Rosanne Thomas, author of Excuse Me: The Survival Guide to Modern Business Etiquette. Increase the amount for someone who works more often or has been providing service for several years.

Suggested tip: The cost of one visit.

If you have multiple salon staff members work on your hair (say, one person shampoos and another person cuts), the Emily Post Institute says to divide your holiday tip along the same proportions you’d follow for a regular visit.

Does the task of hair-washing rotate among staff? Ask the front desk how they handle tipping.

If you don't regularly visit your salon or barbershop throughout the year (you’re a bit nomadic) you might prefer to give about $20 as a tip during your December visit to whoever you’re dropping in on for a trim around the holidays.

If someone does your nails, same rule applies: the cost of one visit as a tip.

Suggested tip: Up to the cost of a session.

Just as you should take care of the person who takes care of your hair, you should think of the person who tends your pet’s mane.

If you bring your pet to the same person year-round for grooming, anywhere from half to the full cost of a session is appropriate, or a personal gift may suffice.

For a dog walker, you might consider tipping one day's pay, unless he or she walks your dog five days a week or more, says Jodi R. R. Smith, president of the etiquette consulting firm Mannersmith. In that case, give up to a week's pay or a small gift.

Suggested tip: One week to one month of pay.

A senior care aide employed personally by an individual or family might deserve at least a week's pay as a holiday bonus.

For a caregiver you work with through an agency, you'll need to check the company's policy. The same goes for nursing home workers. At some facilities and agencies, workers might be tipped through a fund run by the central administrator; at others, gifts and tips may be banned.

If tipping is not permitted, there are still thoughtful ways to show your appreciation.

Consider arranging a catered meal for the care team (avoid pizza when possible). Providing a meal not only acknowledges their efforts but also brings comfort and convenience during long shifts. Include a variety of options to accommodate dietary preferences and restrictions.

Don’t forget to recognize staff who work around the clock, including those covering night shifts, weekends, and holidays. Small gestures such as personalized thank-you notes, care packages, or gift baskets with snacks and treats can also make a meaningful impact.

Suggested tip: Up to the cost of one session.

After sweating it out with your trainer all year, you might find you've become quite close. Consider a generous tip especially if you have an ongoing relationship with the professional and believe you have received above-average service.

Besides, you might need them to give your sessions a bit of a boost after you've gobbled up some of those holiday feasts and treats.

Suggested tip: A nice gift.

Golf, pickleball or tennis pros are salaried employees and don't expect a tip for their services. In fact, they might even be insulted by such a gesture, says etiquette expert Diane Gottsman.

After improving your game by another year's worth of lessons, you might consider getting them a thoughtful gift or batch of baked goods to show your appreciation. The same goes for your kids' various instructors.

Suggested tip: $10 to $50.

Frequently park your car in the same public garage? Consider tipping each attendant who provides you with service regularly.

Even if the attendants don’t drive your car, they play an important role in keeping your vehicle secure. They ensure the garage is well-lit and maintain a clean and safe environment.

To show your appreciation, you can also give them a small gift card to acknowledge their efforts.

Suggested tip: $25 to $100 each.

The higher end of our suggested range, or even more if you can afford to be extra generous, is for those who help you the most or provide exceptional service (heavy grocery-bag luggers or expert taxi-cab hailers).

In high-end neighborhoods (hello, Upper East Side), door attendants might be used to pocketing those bigger tips. “When in doubt, ask around,” says Lizzie Post of the Emily Post Institute.

But if a neighbor tells you that she's tipping twice as much as you can afford, don't feel obliged to match it.

Check with your building association first. You might be able to contribute to a collective fund that will be distributed appropriately to staff members.

“Night staff are often overlooked if you don’t see them often or know them well. You want to make sure you’re covering everyone,” Post says.

Suggested tip: $20 to $100.

For a handyperson in your building who makes repairs for you regularly, a tip is a nice gesture.

Tilt your tip toward the higher end of the range if the worker is available at all hours and does repairs at a moment's notice.

If you're an apartment dweller, be sure to check your building policy before tipping any of its employees. Some might collect lump sums from residents and then divvy the contributions among the appropriate people.

If you'll be tipping on your own, you might want to reward others who help you in your apartment or condo building, too.

A superintendent should get about $25 to $100 each (higher tips are for those who help you the most or provide exceptional service yearlong). You might give a custodian $20 to $50.

Cyber Monday deals have arrived and Target has deals on everything from travel gear to kitchen appliances and more. Get a head start on your holiday shopping and save up to 69% on thousands of items before they sell out.

Plus, with Target's Holiday Price Match Guarantee, running now through December 24, if you buy something today and the price drops later in the season, Target will match it. So buy today and check back regularly to see if you can snag a lower price later.

Keep in mind, if you have a Target Circle Card, you will get your usual extra 5% off and free shipping if you shop online. You can shop all deals online or at your local Target store.

Best Target Cyber Monday deals available now

We've done the work, so you don't have to. Check out these Target Cyber Monday deals you don't want to miss.

Quick Links

• Shop all Target Cyber Monday Deals
• Smart Home & Security Devices: Up to 50% Off
• Outdoor Toys: Up to 60% Off
• Laptops & Tablets: Up to 40% Off
• Puzzles & Board Games: Up to 50% Off
• Kitchen & Dining: Up to 50% Off
• Vacuums & Floor Care: Up to 50% Off

Best Cyber Monday tech deals at Target

• Samsung Galaxy Tab A9+ 11" Tablet, $150. Save 32%
• Blink Outdoor 4 XR Wireless Security Camera System, 6-Pack, $185. Save 56%
• Amazon Kindle 6" e-Reader (2024), $80. Save 27%
• Samsung 4K Class Crystal UHD TV, 55-inch, $250. Save 11%
• Amazon Fire HD 10" 32GB Tablet, $70. Save 50%
• Amazon Fire TV Stick HD, $18. Save 49%

Best Target Cyber Monday deals on travel gear

• Vera Bradley Large Weekender Bag, $60. Save 69%
• American Tourister NXT Checkered Hardside Carry On Spinner Suitcase, $50. Save 50%
• French Connection 6pc Packing Cube Set, $22. Save 63%
• SWISSGEAR Checklite Softside Carry On Suitcase, $80. Save 50%
• RTIC Outdoors Ultra-Tough Large Tote Bag, $38. Save 49%

Best Target Cyber Monday headphone deals

• Beats Studio Pro On-Ear Headphones, $170. Save 51%
• Samsung Galaxy Buds 3 Pro, $170. Save 43%
• Bose QuietComfort On-Ear Headphones, $200. Save 44%
• Sony WH-1000XM5 On-Ear Headphones, $250. Save 38%
• Beats Solo Buds, $50. Save 38%
• JBL Tune Buds 2, $50. Save 55%

Target's best Cyber Monday deals in home and kitchen

• Blueair Pure 511i Max HEPA Silent Air Purifier, $80. Save 43%
• Shark Navigator Robot Vacuum, $180. Save 40%
• Crock-Pot 4.5qt Ceramic Slow Cooker, $18. Save 40%
• ChefBuddys Glass Food Storage Containers with Snap Lids- 10 Piece Set, $26. Save 44%
• Ninja Double Stack XL Countertop Oven and Air Fryer, $280. Save 35%
• KitchenAid 5qt 10-Speed Stand Mixer with Copper Bowl, $350. Save 30%

Where to shop for Target

Shop in-store, online or through the Target app. You can also use Target's fast and free order pickup and drive-up services.

Pro-tip: Need a little pick-me-up when gathering your items? Add a Starbucks beverage to your order and have it delivered along with the rest of your Drive Up order — now available at 1,700 Target stores.

You can also jump on the Cyber Monday savings without leaving the comfort of your home by ordering online and taking advantage of Target's same-day delivery service.

And, want a sneak peek at next week’s deals? Check out the Target Weekly Ad.

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It might be hard to believe Black Friday is back again. With Thanksgiving on the horizon, it’s time to start planning for the biggest shopping period of the year.

With many shoppers planning to spend less on gifts this holiday season, deals are likely to be in higher demand than ever before, so it will pay to be prepared.

Whether you need to know when Black Friday is this year, or you’re trying to find out what kinds of deals your retailer of choice is planning to roll out this year, we've got you covered.

When does Black Friday start?

Black Friday is always the day after Thanksgiving. That means Black Friday 2025 will take place on Friday, November 28, 2025.

While Black Friday itself remains a key day for deals, many retailers have stopped limiting themselves to just one day’s worth of discounts. Nowadays, plenty of stores plan massive deal periods that can begin days or even weeks in advance of Black Friday.

When does Black Friday end?

As we mentioned above, Black Friday isn’t really a one-day event anymore. Typically, sales now run over the entire Black Friday weekend and lead into Cyber Monday, the online shopping equivalent.

This means we expect Black Friday sales to finally wind down on Tuesday, December 2 ... and then the holiday sales shopping starts!

What is Black Friday?

Black Friday is the name given to the Friday after Thanksgiving, and it's now synonymous with pre-Christmas deals in countries all over the globe.

The first (recorded) mention of the phrase was in November 1951 in the journal Factory Management and Maintenace, where it was used to describe people taking sick leave after Thanksgiving to get a four-day weekend.

In the early 1960s, traffic-weary police in Philadelphia were using Black Friday and Black Saturday to refer to the terrible traffic that started to appear over Thanksgiving weekend.

What to expect from Black Friday 2025

The short answer to this question is: expect discounts, and a whole lot of them. If you take a look back at previous years, you’ll spot deals on sought-after kitchen gadgets like air fryers, TVs, Amazon own-brand devices, laptops and computers, gaming, toys, fashion, and practically anything else you could think of.

These days, you can also get a solid idea of the discounts to come by heading to the websites of online retailers like Amazon or big-box stores like Walmart, Best Buy and Target to find out all the information about their sales days.

Does Target have a Black Friday sale?

Target sells everything from toys to tech, and you can expect some great prices on all sorts of items in the Black Friday sales event. But also note that Target started its Black Friday deals early, with weekly deals drops all the way through to Thanksgiving weekend.

Target has also launched its own Target Black Friday landing page. At the time of writing, the page lists where to find Black Friday opening hours for your nearest store, where to sign up to see Target’s Black Friday ads and other ways you can make great savings the next time you shop.

Be sure to look into their loyalty program, Target Circle, before the big day. Sign-up is free and gets you access to exclusive deals and other perks.

And you might be able to maximize your savings even more with a Target Circle Card, which offers an extra 5% discount on qualifying items.

Does Walmart have a Black Friday sale?

Walmart is just one of many big-box stores that will be offering big discounts on Black Friday. This year, Walmart is spreading out its savings across three major events.

The first event runs November 14 through 16, both online and in stores, with Walmart+ members getting five hours of early online access on November 13 at 7 p.m. ET.

Deals Event 2 runs November 25 through 30, starting online only November 25 through 27, before expanding to both online and in stores November 28 through 30. Walmart+ members get early online access on November 24 at 7 p.m. ET.

Finally, Cyber Monday lands on December 1, and is online only, with early access for Walmart+ members beginning November 30 at 7 p.m. ET.

If you’re planning on shopping with Walmart, we’d strongly recommend signing up for Walmart Plus if you haven’t already. Along with all the normal perks it brings — free shipping with no minimum order threshold, free access to Paramount Plus, and much, much more.

Does Costco have a Black Friday sale?

If you’re planning on stocking up for the holidays at Costco, you’ll be pleased to know that the wholesale retailer has a sale planned.

If you want to plan ahead and see some of the deals that are being offered this year, check out the Costco Black Friday hub page on their website for more info.

Is Black Friday worth it?

The answer to this question is entirely dependent on whether you were planning on splashing the cash before Black Friday.

If you were looking to make a big purchase like upgrading a TV or you’re looking to do the bulk of your holiday shopping at this time of year, there’s every chance that you could make some great savings with Black Friday deals.

That being said, not all deals are created equally; sometimes, prices on certain goods will shoot up in the weeks leading up to Black Friday, meaning that the “saving” you’re getting isn’t actually as good as it looks.

To get the most out of Black Friday, we strongly suggest you plan ahead to make the most of Black Friday. Make a list of some of the things you’re looking for, and set a budget that you can reasonably stick to.

By deciding what items, brands, or models you’re in the market for ahead of time, you can navigate the massive deals pages on retailer websites or take a little bit of the stress out of shopping in-store. And if you have a budget to stick to, you might be less likely to overspend or be tempted by regrettable impulse buys.

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As you plan your holiday shopping, knowing when the cutoff times for shipping are can help you avoid last-minute oopsies, where your gifts don't get out in time. UPS, FedEx, and the U.S. Postal Service (USPS) are reminding us that it's best to ship sooner rather than later. Read on for the shipping deadlines for each carrier.

Will holiday shipping take longer than normal this year?

With tens of millions of packages being shipped each day during the holiday season, you need to prepare for delays or ship early enough to play it safe. While Christmas falls on a Wednesday this year, some shippers have cutoff times well before this.

When should I mail holiday packages?

Here are the dates you need to circle on your calendar to get your package there on time via UPS, FedEx or USPS:

UPS shipping deadlines

UPS said to follow these deadlines to get your packages to their destinations by December 24. The following is the carrier's domestic delivery schedule:

• UPS Ground Shipping — Check the website to get quotes, Saturday delivery options and other details
• UPS 3 Day Select — December 19
• UPS 2nd Day Air — December 22
• UPS Next Day Air — December 23

FedEx shipping deadlines

FedEx said the last day to ship your packages to arrive on or before Tuesday, December 24, is as follows:

• FedEx SameDay — December 24
• FedEx Overnight — December 23
• FedEx 2Day & 2Day AM — December 22
• FedEx Ground 5-Day Shipping — December 17
• FedEx Ground 4-Day Shipping — December 18
• FedEx Ground 3-Day Shipping — December 19
• FedEx Ground 2-Day Shipping — December 22
• FedEx Ground 1-Day Shipping — December 23

FedEx is closed on Christmas day but does provide FedEx Custom Critical services.

USPS shipping deadlines

The US Postal Service said that it will have a peak, or demand, surcharge this holiday season. The peak period will be October 5, 2025, through January 18, 2026.

Post offices will be closed on Christmas Day and New Year's Day, but will be open on December 26 and January 2.

To get your packages to their destination by December 25, the Postal Service recommends the following deadlines for shipping within the Lower 48 states. For more destinations and information on international and other shipping services, visit the Postal Services Holiday Center.

• USPS Ground Advantage^® Service: December 17
• First-Class Mail^® Service: December 17
• Priority Mail^® Service: December 18
• Priority Mail Express^® Service: December 20

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Are banks open on Black Friday in 2025? That's a question plenty of folks are wondering just ahead of the biggest shopping day of the year. The answer is yes, banks are open on Friday, November 28.

However, both banks and the stock market will be closed on Thursday, November 27, for the Thanksgiving holiday.

As for those working on Black Friday, the good news is that plenty of stores started early sales this year, including Target and Costco. And Walmart's five-day Black Friday deals run through the weekend.

There are also lots of online opportunities to find great deals on Cyber Monday. The annual online shopping holiday started in 2005 and falls each year on the Monday after Thanksgiving.

A recent survey from Deloitte suggests 60% of consumers will do their shopping online this year, though spending across online and in-store sales is expected to be down 4% compared to 2024.

Those looking to save a few bucks will want to check out the big Amazon deals we're tracking. You can also sign up for a Prime membership to save on shipping costs with some items.

Regardless of when and where you do your holiday shopping, make sure to familiarize yourself with these tips for scoring the best Black Friday and Cyber Monday deals. And be sure to keep an eye out for Black Friday scams. Here's how to spot the most common ones targeting consumers this year.

As for those wondering "Is the stock market open on Black Friday?," the answer to that is yes. Black Friday is not one of this year's stock market holidays, though investors will get an early dismissal at 1 pm Eastern Standard Time. (Bond markets, meanwhile, are open until 2 pm EST on Friday, November 28.)

Anyone curious about what time does the market open for regular trading hours, both the Nasdaq Stock Market and the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE) are open from 9:30 am to 4:00 pm Eastern time Monday through Friday.

Below, we feature a full schedule of all U.S. bank holidays for 2025.

2025 bank holidays

* This is the recommended bank market holiday schedule from the Federal Reserve. This schedule is subject to change.

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Is the stock market open on Black Friday in 2025? The answer to this question is yes. The stock market will be open Friday, November 28, for the annual shopping event.

However, investors will need to watch the clock closely. This is because the stock market will not be open for regular trading hours, which run from 9:30 am to 4:00 pm Eastern Standard Time, Monday through Friday. Rather, both the Nasdaq Stock Market and the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE) will close early, at 1 pm EST, on Black Friday.

Bond traders will have to stick around just a little longer on Friday, November 28, with the bond markets open until 2 pm that day.

The early dismissal on Black Friday will give investors a chance to scoop up some of the hottest shopping deals of the holiday season.

While many stores started early sales this year – including Target, Walmart and Costco – there are still plenty of deals to be found.

Regardless of when and where you do your holiday shopping, make sure to familiarize yourself with these tips for scoring the best Black Friday deals. And be sure to keep an eye out for Black Friday scams. Here's how to spot the most common ones targeting consumers this year.

Are banks open on Black Friday? The answer to that question is yes. While banks will be closed Thursday, November 27, for Thanksgiving, Black Friday is not a bank holiday in 2025, and so banks will be open.

Below, we feature a full schedule of all stock market holidays and bond market holidays for 2025.

 2025 stock market holidays

2025 bond market holidays

* Data is provided by the NYSE and the Securities Industry and Financial Markets Association (SIFMA). This schedule is subject to change.

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Prices for streaming services have been steadily rising as more companies enter the market, so it's no surprise that people want to know how to save on these services. Deals have become scarce, and some of the biggest names in the business have stopped offering free trials.

This is why we recommend looking out for other deals and promotions, such as the T-Mobile bundle that includes free Netflix, Hulu, and Apple TV+ in your phone plan, before signing up for a new subscription service. Similar special offers — like the popular Hulu, Disney+, and Max Ultimate Bundle — can save you almost half off the cost of buying each service separately.

So if you're looking for ways to save money on streaming all year round, we've got a roundup of all the streaming deals, free trials and other tricks you can use to save.

Best Deals on Streaming Services Right Now

How to Save on Streaming Services

Bundles and limited-time deals aren't the only way to save on streaming. Here are some other tricks to add to your savings kit.

1. Rotate and switch your services

With so many streaming choices, it’s tempting to load up on subscriptions and leave them running — but the cost can quickly add up. Instead, pick a couple that have shows premiering this month or shows that you've been meaning to watch. Keep those for a few months while you catch up on everything you want to watch.

Then, cancel your subscription and move on to your next batch of two or three streaming services. Once you're caught up on movies and TV series on those, rinse and repeat.

To save even more, you can try to time your switch with limited-time deals and free trials. Check back here regularly for the latest deals and offers so you can switch and take advantage of deals as soon as they become available.

2. Share subscriptions within your household

An easy way to save without the hassle of rotating is to share your access. Share streaming services with friends and family so that everyone enjoys multiple subscriptions while only paying for a couple.

While it's becoming increasingly difficult to do with many streaming services cracking down, there are a few that remain user-friendly in this regard.

You can share your Apple TV+ password and YouTube TV credentials. Hulu, Peacock and other streaming services have all cracked down on password sharing. Netflix offers an additional user option for $7.99, which is an affordable alternative.

3. Explore pay-per-view options

If you want access to a single show, it may be cheaper than subscribing to a service. For example, a Max ad-free subscription costs $18.49 per month, but you can usually buy seasons of TV shows for $20-$30, saving you on recurring charges.

4. Bundle your services

This is another good way to trim costs, especially if you are willing to put up with ads. The Disney Bundle is one of the worst-kept secrets when it comes to saving on streaming.

For as little as $35. 99 a month, you can get access to the ad-supported tiers of Disney+ and Hulu and all the sporting action on ESPN Unlimited.

And if you’re not a sports fan, you can save even more money with the Duo Basic bundle that gets you just the first two services. If ads are a dealbreaker, you can pay $19.99/month for the ad-free Disney Duo Premium plans.

5. Take advantage of free trials.

Over time the number of companies offering free trials has dropped but you can still try before you buy with a few, including Apple TV Plus, Youtube TV and Hulu.

This is a great option if there's only one or two shows or movies you want to watch on the platform. Just grab a free trial to watch what you want and then cancel before the monthly fees kick in.

6. Try free streaming services

There are more and more services that offer shows and movies for free — in exchange for sitting through non-skippable ads. They include Tubi, PlutoTV and The Roku Channel.

Check your local library's website, too. Sometimes a library card gets you free access to not-free streaming services like Kanopy or Hoopla.

7. Subscribe to another service that offers TV streaming perks

There are plenty of places that give you complimentary access to a streaming service as an added perk.

• T-Mobile customers with the Experience Beyond plan get Hulu with ads and a Netflix Basic subscription at no extra cost.
• Walmart+ — Members of Walmart+ get a free membership to Paramount+ (with ads ) or Peacock Premium as long as you're a member.
• DIRECTV Stream: New customers who sign up for DIRECTV Stream get Max and Hulu, along with several other premium streaming channels, free for the first five days.
• Instacart Plus subscribers get a free Peacock Premium plan. The entry-level Peacock plan costs almost the same as an Instacart Plus membership, so it's a bit like getting two subscriptions in one.
• Buy an Apple device, get free Apple TV+: you can get a three-month subscription to Apple TV+ with the purchase of any eligible Apple device.

8. Look out for time-limited offers

Typically, the best streaming deals are limited-time-only offers that you need to be ready to jump on if you want to take advantage. Keep an eye out around Black Friday. The major players usually offer colossal discounts on their streaming services.

Additionally, some providers offer decent discounts as part of the festivities on specific days like National Streaming Day (May 20), Amazon's two Prime Day events and Disney Plus Day.

9. Set reminders when free trials or deals run out

Streaming services will continue to bill you once your trial or promotional period expires. Therefore, set a reminder on your phone a few days before the discount expires. Doing this allows you to cancel any services you don't want to use before you pay full price for them.

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Think it’s too early to start your holiday shopping? Clearly, the retailers don’t want you to think that. Starting in October of each year, you can usually walk into the seasonal section of any big-box store and see Christmas items next to Halloween costumes and menus offering a catered Thanksgiving dinner.

As much as you might despise Christmas creep, your wallet might benefit if you get into the holiday spirit ahead of time and actually start buying gifts. What about Black Friday, you say, the day after Thanksgiving that supposedly marks the start of the Christmas shopping season because everything is on sale? Or Black Friday's younger more tech savvy sister Cyber Monday?

For one thing, not everything gets marked down on Black Friday. If you wait until then — or December — you’ll miss out on hot items and some money-saving opportunities. Here’s why:

1. There are deals now

Retailers started releasing early Black Friday deals at the end of October. This year, Target is offering a deal of the day and they allow you to preview the next four deals before they go live. Don't forget to use your RedCard and get 5% off your purchase. Don’t have a RedCard? Right now, you can get a coupon for $50 off a future purchase at Target when you open a new RedCard account thru December 9.

Costco's early Black Friday Deals are being rolled out over four weeks, from October 30 through November 27. Walmart's early Black Friday Deals began November 8 online and Walmart+ members had three hours of exclusive access and in store deals commenced on November 10.

Even though some retailers’ early discounts aren’t as deep as on Black Friday, those day-after (or day-of) Thanksgiving deals are tough to snag because they’re limited in number and may require a paid membership or subscription to get the best deals and terms.

Apparel in particular is something you should buy now because several retailers already are offering discounts of 40% or more on sweaters, jackets, boots and other cold-weather clothing. Plus, plenty of retailers are offering coupons that, combined with sales, can beat Black Friday apparel deals.

Pay attention to the promotions that arrive in your inbox in the coming weeks to learn about sales. Consider signing up for text alerts from your favorite retailers. You will be notified of sales and possibly earn additional savings opportunities or free shipping.

Over the next few weeks, check Black Friday ads at Web sites such as blackfriday.com. You can try to beat those prices with sales and coupons available at sites such as Rather-Be-Shopping, RetailMeNot and Offers.com. Also check deal sites such as DealNews and Slickdeals for deeply discounted items that might be at prices comparable to those available on Black Friday.

2. You can buy now, save later

Even if the items on your Christmas list aren’t on sale now, you might be able to take advantage of retailers’ price-adjustment policies to buy them at full price then get a refund for the difference when they go on sale. This will help you avoid the crowds and competition during holiday sales and ensure you get the items you want before they sell out.

An easy way to monitor the price of an item after you buy it is to set up a price alert with a Web site such as Priceblink or Price.com. You can track Amazon prices and get price drop alerts at camelcamelcamel. Be aware that some retailers exclude Black Friday deals from their price-adjustment policies.

3. Bigger cash-back offers and more discounted gift cards

Cash-back sites such as BeFrugal, Rakuten and Ibotta allow shoppers to earn back a percentage of the money they spend on qualifying purchases at their retail partners. Many of the top retailers will increase cash-back offerings during pre-Black Friday sales. The savings during these early sales combined with higher cash-back percentages could result in better prices than on Black Friday.

You can purchase gift cards that sell at a discount to their face value on sites such as CardCash and Cardcookie, then use those cards to do your holiday shopping to score instant savings. Now is a good time to buy these cards because inventory may become more limited as the holidays get closer.

4. You can pace your purchasing

It’s smart to space out your shopping over a longer period of time because your budget will feel less of a pinch. If you do all of your shopping at once closer to the holidays, you’ll be more likely to turn to credit cards to cover the expense (unless you were diligent about cutting costs to save enough for a holiday shopping spree).

If you wait until the last minute to do your holiday shopping, you’ll be more likely to overspend. As the holidays get closer, the priority for consumers becomes crossing items off their shopping lists and not getting the best price. And if you shop online, you may have to pay more for expedited shipping for gifts to arrive in time for your holiday celebration.

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