Black Friday isn’t just a day anymore; it’s a full-blown season of deals, flash sales, and digital buzz.
For many South Africans, it’s where saving meets spending, and the thrill of “getting it right” feels like a win. But behind the excitement lies a choice: shop with purpose or get swept up in the hype.
Last year, FNB customers directed most of their purchases toward groceries, clothing, entertainment, and travel. These categories reflect not only seasonal priorities but also a shift toward spending with purpose, where purchases intersect with real needs, enhance quality of life, or support planned goals.
“Black Friday is a major retail event that can offer value to consumers, but only if approached with planning and discipline,” says Ester Ochse, Product Head of Integrated Advice at FNB. “It’s easy to get swept up in the excitement, but emotional spending during sale periods often leads to regret. Budgeting ahead and identifying genuine needs can help consumers make intentional purchases and avoid unnecessary debt.”
Ochse shares 5 smart ways to prepare for Black Friday:
- Know your financial bandwidth
Start with your budget, not the sale flyer. Review what’s left after your essentials and savings. That’s your real spending room. Having that number in mind keeps you grounded when discounts start flashing across your screen.
2. Build your “priority purchase” list
Scroll through your year’s wish list and identify what truly matters. Whether it’s a home appliance, a data plan, or a much-needed upgrade, focus only on what fits into your existing goals. A clear list reduces the temptation to buy what looks exciting but serves no purpose.
3. Research before the rush
Compare prices now, before Black Friday week. Many retailers release early hints or previews. Knowing the baseline cost helps you spot genuine savings versus marketing noise. Ochse notes that informed consumers spend more confidently because they recognize value, not hype.
4. Use your digital tools for control
Set up spending alerts on your FNB banking app or use your app’s budgeting features to track how your money moves during the sale period. These real-time insights can serve as small reminders that protect you from unplanned taps. “Technology gives you visibility,” says Ochse. “Visibility gives you control.”
5. Pause before you purchase
Even with the best planning, it’s easy to get caught in the moment. When you feel the urge to buy, give yourself a few minutes. Walk away, review your list, and decide whether the item supports your financial goals. Most of the time, the deal, or the desire, will still be there later.
A smarter way to spend
Planning helps protect your financial confidence. The satisfaction of sticking to your budget and buying only what you’ve planned for lasts far longer than the fleeting thrill of an impulsive deal.
And for those using rewards programs like eBucks, Black Friday can be an opportunity to stretch value even further, especially when paired with partner discounts or travel bookings.
Ochse sums it up: “The power is in how prepared you are. A well-planned purchase gives you peace of mind and keeps your money aligned with your goals.” So, this Black Friday, plan first, swipe later, and let your decisions, not emotions, lead the way.
