Talk of Black Friday deals abound this time of year, but scouring hundreds of products tends to feel more overwhelming than enjoyable. Is 20% off something that you didn’t really need actually a deal?
What are shoppers on a budget buying for themselves this year? What products are people purchasing for quality and savings, rather than being swayed by the most recent ads that popped up on their phone? I combed through a ton of money-saving subreddits to find out what frugal shoppers are buying on Black Friday.
Rice Cookers
Rice cookers appeared over and over again throughout these subreddits as an item that people purchase when on sale. Rice cookers are great to have and can make more than just rice — think oatmeal and polenta, among other dishes.
Streaming Services
Many streaming services go on sale on Black Friday, especially if you’re a new customer. Some have even reported getting Disney Plus for as low as $2.99 per month from a Black Friday sale. Starz is currently undercutting that, at $1 a month if you pay annually. If there’s a streaming service you’ve been thinking of grabbing, that will be a day to re-check the price.
Food Processors
Food processors are great to have; even small, 2-cup ones can do so much for you in the kitchen. A good one will save you money and time while you whip up things like spice mixes, pie crusts, hummus, minced veggies, and more.
Pet Food
It’s not all electronics and kitchen appliances that get the big deals on Black Friday. Pet food is usually discounted in some way, so it’s a great time to do what others are doing, and stock up.
Non-Stick Skillets
Non-stick pans don’t last forever. Some cast-iron skillets might be a buy-it-for-life situation, but most of your non-stick skillets have a shelf life of about five years. If you haven’t replaced them in a while, be on the lookout for deals.
Trending on Cheapism
Storage Freezers
You’re gonna need to have a lot of space to easily accommodate a storage freezer, but if you have a garage or another area where you can stick one, this is one of the best investments you can get. Deep, spacious freezer storage will change the bulk-buying game for you. If you see a deal on a stand up or flat, garage-style freezer, it’s worth it.
Supplements
Many users said they were looking to stock up on supplements, which are known to be pricey. Anything you go through on a daily basis is worth a bulk buy.
Souper Cubes
Souper Cubes are a specific brand of silicone freezer storage that makes everything from ice trays to meal-sized compartments. These are great for meal prep, homemade stock, and more.
Sign up for our newsletter
Baking Ingredients
Grocery stores usually have sales on their classic pantry staples — like butter, sugar, chocolate chips, and flour — on Black Friday.
Pyrex
Everybody’s favorite baking “glass” ware is known for its durability, and I saw it pop up in about three different threads. Pyrex’s Black Friday sale has already begun if you want an early start.
More Black Friday Stories on Cheapism
- Magic Puzzles Are the Only Puzzles I Buy, and They’re 50% Off for Black Friday — These cult-favorite puzzles are currently at their lowest price ever.
- 8 Retailers Offering the Biggest Discounts on Black Friday This Year — A new report aims to help shoppers find retailers offering the most significant Black Friday discounts.
- When Do Stores Open on Black Friday? Store Hours for Walmart, Costco, and Other Retailers — Get ready to hit the shops on Friday morning.
