Here’s when to find the best Black Friday deals on appliances, electronics, travel and more

The holiday shopping season is upon us, and with Thanksgiving just around the corner, consumers are eager to find the best deals and discounts on their gift purchases. While Thanksgiving often heralds a slew of promotions and sales, retail experts suggest that there may be better days to score the best prices on holiday shopping items.

This year, businesses are facing rising costs, which may impact the extent of discounts they can offer to customers. Despite this, holiday spending is expected to reach record levels, with the National Retail Federation forecasting that over 187 million people will shop between Black Friday and Cyber Monday. However, consumer spending trends in 2025 have shown that high-earning households are driving the economy, while low- and middle-income families are feeling the pinch of inflation and affordability challenges.

For those looking to make big appliance purchases, such as refrigerators or washing machines, it’s advisable to shop in-store on Black Friday. Retail expert Deborah Weinswig recommends visiting brick-and-mortar stores like Home Depot and Lowe’s for unique in-store promotions. However, shoppers should be prepared to arrive early as inventory may be limited, and pricing may fluctuate based on consumer demand.

When it comes to travel deals, the best time to start looking for promotions is not necessarily on Travel Tuesday but as early as Thursday evening. Signing up for email alerts from airlines and hotels can help consumers stay informed about early promotions and discounts. Similarly, for consumer electronics, Cyber Monday is expected to offer the best deals on items like TVs, speakers, and computers, with discounts ranging from 10% to 28%.

Black Friday is also the ideal time to purchase popular kids’ toys, as prices are expected to be at their lowest. Retail analysts advise shoppers to compare prices and look for additional savings beyond advertised deals. Additionally, consumer savings expert Andrea Woroch suggests enrolling in loyalty programs, tracking prices using price comparison tools, and utilizing cashback apps to maximize savings during holiday shopping.

In conclusion, the holiday shopping season offers plenty of opportunities to find great deals and discounts on a wide range of products. By following these tips and being strategic about when and where to shop, consumers can make the most of their holiday shopping budget.