Black Friday is approaching, and many South Africans are already taking a hard look at their spending. TransUnion’s Q2 2026 Consumer Pulse Study found that 63.4% of respondents actively sought discounts, while 52.7% had cut discretionary spending.
Also see: How to plan a memorable festive gathering on a 2026 budget
“Have a clear idea of what you can afford before the specials start,” says Craig Whittaker, COO at Finchoice. “A good deal can still leave you stretched if the repayments carry into a January that is already expensive.”
1. Check the price before believing the discount
Make a list of Christmas purchases you plan to make, and take note of what they currently cost. Compare the same product at different retailers during Black Friday, including delivery. Discovery Bank’s 2025 Black Friday analysis found more transactions among its clients, but smaller average purchase values, down 3% in-store and 9% online.
2. Spread payments without overstretching your budget
Spreading a Christmas purchase over a few paydays can help if you know the instalments will fit when they are due. Checkout payment systems allow shoppers to split eligible purchases into three interest-free instalments. Check what you will pay in total and when the instalments will come off, especially with school costs coming in January.
Also see: How to be a great host on a budget this festive season
3. Check your December repayment options
If you expect extra festive-season expenses that could strain your budget, it’s worth exploring what options your existing credit providers offer before the festive rush, especially if you receive your December salary earlier than usual.
4. Buy January basics when the saving is real
Some household essentials will need to be bought again in January, regardless of what you spend over Christmas. If Black Friday brings a genuine saving on those essentials, buying a little extra now could make the first grocery bill of 2027 a little lighter.
Check whether the unit price really is lower, and leave enough money for your normal December expenses and anything unexpected. Only buy what you can store and use.
5. Put necessary expenses ahead of festive extras
Finchoice’s research shows that family commitments (44%) and school fees (38%) are among the reasons customers seek loans. With another school year approaching, it helps to factor these expenses into your budget before allocating money to festive entertainment.
If you are considering credit to cover an essential expense, take time to understand the interest, fees and repayment terms before committing.
“People should be able to enjoy Christmas. A little planning now can help them do that without spending the first part of 2027 catching up,” says Whittaker.
Featured image: Supplied
Also see: Three smart ways to give your geyser a break (and save money) this festive season
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