Sonia M. Rompoti, MSc, bsc

Black Friday and Cyber Monday are synonymous with epic deals, long queues, and the occasional shopping frenzy. But with the advent of online shopping and an explosion of sales year-round, many shoppers are left wondering:

Are these events really as legitimate as they claim? Are we saving as much as retailers want us to believe, or is it all just marketing magic?

Let’s dive into the truth behind these shopping bonanzas and explore how you can make the most of them without falling for the hype.

The Origins: How Did Black Friday and Cyber Monday Start?

Black Friday began in the United States as the day after Thanksgiving, traditionally marking the start of the holiday shopping season. Retailers noticed a spike in sales, and by the 1960s, the term “Black Friday” became associated with stores “going into the black” (becoming profitable) thanks to these sales.

Cyber Monday, on the other hand, is a more recent phenomenon. Coined in 2005, it capitalized on the rise of online shopping. Retailers introduced it as an opportunity for customers to snag deals without leaving their homes—no elbowing through crowds required.

The Pros: Why Black Friday and Cyber Monday Are Legit

1. Real Discounts on Big-Ticket Items
   Major retailers often slash prices on electronics, appliances, and other big-ticket items. For example, you might find a laptop originally priced at $1,000 reduced to $700, which can be a genuine deal. These discounts are typically pre-negotiated with manufacturers specifically for the event.
2. Inventory Clearance
   Black Friday and Cyber Monday allow stores to clear out inventory ahead of the new year. This often results in significant markdowns, especially on older models of electronics, furniture, and fashion items.
3. Opportunity to Shop Smart
   With a bit of research and planning, shoppers can genuinely save on holiday gifts, personal items, and household essentials. Sites like CamelCamelCamel (for Amazon US) and browser extensions like Honey or Rakuten can help verify if a deal is real.
4. Online Convenience
   Cyber Monday has revolutionized how we shop, making it easier to avoid crowds and access deals from the comfort of home. Plus, many retailers extend their sales online, meaning you don’t need to wait until Monday to snag an online bargain.

The Cons: Is It All Too Good to Be True?

1. Inflated Prices Before the Sales
   Some retailers artificially inflate prices in the weeks leading up to Black Friday, only to “discount” them back to their regular levels. This gives the illusion of a great deal when, in reality, you’re paying what you would have a month earlier.
2. Limited Stock
   Doorbuster deals often come with a catch: extremely limited quantities. That $200 50-inch TV? There might only be five in stock at your local store. If you’re not camping out overnight, chances are slim you’ll snag one.
3. Pressure Tactics
   Flash sales and countdown timers create a sense of urgency, encouraging impulsive purchases. Shoppers often end up buying items they don’t need simply because they fear missing out (FOMO).
4. Return Hassles
   Many items purchased during Black Friday or Cyber Monday are non-refundable or have restocking fees, making returns a headache if you change your mind.

How to Navigate Black Friday and Cyber Monday Like a Pro

1. Do Your Research
   Use price-tracking tools and compare prices across multiple retailers before committing. Check product reviews to ensure you’re buying something worthwhile—not just cheap.
2. Create a Shopping List
   Impulse buys are the enemy. Write down what you actually need and stick to it, no matter how tempting that discounted waffle maker might look.
3. Set a Budget
   It’s easy to overspend when deals are flying at you from all directions. Determine how much you can afford to spend ahead of time.
4. Sign Up for Email Alerts
   Many retailers offer exclusive deals to subscribers. Sign up for newsletters from your favorite stores a few weeks in advance to get early access.
5. Shop Early
   Some sales start days or even weeks before the actual event. Early shopping can help you avoid stock shortages and delivery delays.
6. Use Cashback and Rewards
   Take advantage of credit card rewards, cashback apps, and store loyalty programs to maximize your savings.

Is It Worth It?

The legitimacy of Black Friday and Cyber Monday boils down to your approach as a shopper. If you’re prepared, informed, and disciplined, you can walk away with substantial savings. However, if you let the hype dictate your purchases, you might end up spending more than you save.

Finally, How to Avoid the Hype

Not every deal is a good deal, and not every product is worth buying simply because it’s on sale. Black Friday and Cyber Monday are legitimate in the sense that discounts exist, but they require a discerning eye. Remember: A deal isn’t really a deal if you didn’t need the item in the first place.

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