Key dates
Black Friday 2026 falls on Friday, November 27, the day after US Thanksgiving, and Cyber Monday is November 30. Many retailers now start "early Black Friday" sales in the first weeks of November, so tracking prices from late October helps you recognize a genuine bargain.
How to calculate a discount
The sale price equals the original price multiplied by (1 minus the discount rate). A $120 jacket at 25% off costs $120 × 0.75 = $90, saving $30. Our discount calculator does this instantly and shows how much you save.
Stacked discounts aren't added together
"30% off plus an extra 20% at checkout" doesn't mean 50% off. The second discount applies to the already reduced price: $100 × 0.70 × 0.80 = $56, which is 44% off. Knowing this keeps you from overestimating a deal, and lets you compare offers from different stores fairly.
Spotting fake "was" prices
Some sellers raise the reference price before a sale so the discount looks larger. Check the price history of an item, compare it with at least two other retailers and focus on the final price you pay, not the percentage. If the "deal" price equals the normal price from last month, it isn't a deal.
Include tax and shipping
A lower sticker price can be beaten by a store with free shipping or no sales tax for your location. Add sales tax with our sales tax calculator and include delivery costs before deciding. For big purchases, also consider return policies and warranties.
Set a budget first
Decide how much you'll spend before the sales begin and list the items you actually need. Impulse buys are the main reason shoppers overspend during Black Friday. Paying with cash or a debit card rather than credit can help, as can waiting 24 hours before buying anything not on your list.
Calculate price per unit
For groceries and household products, divide the price by the quantity (per ounce, per item or per load). Bulk packs aren't always cheaper per unit, and this simple check often reveals better value on the regular shelf.
Frequently asked questions
When is Black Friday 2026?
Friday, November 27, 2026; Cyber Monday is November 30.
Is 30% off plus 20% off the same as 50% off?
No. Stacked discounts multiply, so it equals 44% off.
How do I calculate a sale price?
Multiply the original price by (1 − discount rate), e.g. $80 × 0.75 = $60 for 25% off.
How can I tell if a Black Friday deal is real?
Compare the final price with the item's recent price history and with other stores.