With Black Friday just around the corner, it’s time to start planning how to make the most of your holiday shopping in the lead up to Christmas. Whether you’re in the market for a new mobile phone, an internet plan with unlimited data or the latest tablet, Black Friday is your chance to save big on this year’s wishlist. Here’s 5 tips to help you make the most of this Black Friday.
Even before you start browsing for Black Friday deals, it’s essential to set your budget. After all, it can be easy to overspend with tempting discounts everywhere. Take a look at your financial situation and determine how much you can comfortably spend without stretching yourself too thin.
You can start by reviewing your income and regular expenses (e.g. rent, mortgage, bills, savings goals), setting aside money that you know is truly disposable. In the end, sticking to a well-thought-out budget will help you focus on what you really need so you can avoid impulse buys.
When it comes to smart devices and big data plans, research is key to spotting real deals. Whether it’s a new phone, a smart watch, SIM Only plans or home internet, here’s how you can sus out the best offers this Black Friday.
Looking to snag a brand new device at the best price possible? Don’t just jump at the first discount you see. Check out the entire Black Friday catalogue of your favourite retailers. This way, you can compare prices and ensure that you’re getting the best value for your money.
It’s best to stick to well-known retailers who have a proven track record of reliability, especially when it comes to larger purchases like phones and tablets. With 24/7 customer service, convenient repair services, easy device exchanges, and secure payment options, trusted retailers like Vodafone offer you peace of mind for your purchase.
When shopping for mobile phones or big data plans, it’s important to go beyond just comparing prices. Brand software and device features can make a huge difference in your overall experience.
For smartphones, brands like Apple, Samsung and Google may have similar devices, but their ecosystems, cameras and customisation options can differ significantly. It’s a similar story for internet and mobile plans. You’ll want to consider things like data allowance, inclusions and speed limits—and whether these suit your usage habits. Reading reviews from users and experts can give you first-hand insight into the real-world performance of the plans and devices on offer.
If you’ve noticed that your mobile phone is slowing down, your battery life isn’t holding up, or you’re running out of storage space, Black Friday is a great time to upgrade. With faster processors, longer-lasting battery life, and larger storage capacities, treating yourself to one of the latest smartphones may be just what you need to usher in the new year.
Another key thing to consider is how much longer your device will continue to receive security and software updates. They may not seem all that exciting, but these updates are crucial for keeping your phone running smoothly and safely.
Manufacturers like Apple, Samsung, Google and OPPO all guarantee software support for several years, with their latest releases enjoying an even longer lifespan of security updates than their previous models. But if you’ve had your current phone for a while now, it might be time to upgrade this Black Friday to ensure you’re still on the front foot of performance and security.
It’s easy to get distracted by deals you don’t actually need, so make sure your Black Friday shopping focuses on the essentials first. If work life is your priority, then look into purchases that will support your productivity. Upgrading your internet plan for smoother remote meetings or choosing an AI-powered smartphone to streamline tasks might be just what you need to enhance your work experience.
On the other hand, if you’re wanting to dial up your day-to-day experience, it might be time to invest in a device that supports your favourite hobbies, like photography or gaming. With big savings on the horizon, focus on items that will add long-term value to your work life, personal life, or both.
Before you go signing up for a new mobile or internet plan, it’s important to make sure that your credit history is in order. Why? Because this will affect whether you’re approved for your desired plan.
Having a history of timely payments on previous accounts such as phone bills, credit cards and utilities will show that you’re a reliable customer—just what providers typically look for. It’s a good idea to regularly check your credit report to ensure everything is accurate and resolve any outstanding debts before taking on new financial commitments.