Black Friday is a US institution which has now caught fire in the UK.

While there are great deals to capitalise on, there are also potential pitfalls consumers could fall victim to if they are not careful. Last year saw some chaotic scenes at stores, as consumers in some cases literally battled each other to snag top discounts on all manner of coveted goods. This year could bring more of the same.

PromotionalCodes.org.uk has compiled the following list of Black Friday do’s and don’ts, to ensure consumers make the most of the day.

Do

Get online early

Save time by making an account with the retailer before the big day and update your billing and shipping addresses. That way, you can log on and simply press buy without the hassle of timed checkout baskets.

Use coupons and vouchers

Don’t just stop at the store’s discount. When applicable, try to use a discount voucher where possible.

Check the returns policy

Chances are you’ll be buying things in a rush, so make sure you’re familiar with the store’s returns policy in case your product is faulty.

Research

Make sure you see how much the product you’re after is a few weeks before Black Friday so you know how much of a saving you’re making. Just because there are a lot of deals, doesn’t mean they are necessarily all good. Stick to good honest savings on practical products.

Take a friend

Black Friday can get manic, so bring a bargain buddy with you. Whoever finishes their shopping first can start queuing,  and you and your friend can combine items at the till.

Bring cash

If you’re worried about being tempted into deals you don’t need, then bring a set budget in cash and leave cards at home.

Use social media

Before you out head out, have a quick scroll through the Twitter feeds of the stores you intend to visit. They may be updated with exclusive deals only available on social media. If you are getting deals from supermarkets, follow your local one for updates on how busy the store is and how much stock is left.

Don’t

Buy for the sake of it

An item’s price tag might make it seem like an amazing bargain, but do you really need it? If it is a present for someone, are you sure they’d like it? Just because you are making a saving does not mean you are getting your money’s worth.

Treat it as last chance saloon

Black Friday is a great time to save money but it is not the only time of year you can make huge savings. If you can’t get your dream item at the price you want, don’t settle. Wait until January sales or summer discounts.

Rely on Black Friday for Christmas gifts

Demand for popular favourites and new fads will be high and many consumers will be planning to snag them at knockdown prices on Black Friday. It may be you can’t get some or even all of the items on your loved ones’ Christmas lists on the day, so ensure you have backup plans in place.

Be fooled by store credit cards

Stores might try to entice you into sign up to their credit card scheme for an extra discount. You will still be paying for the items months after and it will encourage to you spend over your budget.

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