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The golden rules for sustainable shopping on Black Friday
Let's talk about Black Friday. Though we all love a good deal, we understand that Black Friday contributes to overconsumption and leaves many people under financial stress. We're here to help you score great discounts and take advantage of Black Friday without compromising your values or student budget. Here are our golden rules for sustainable shopping on Black Friday, leaving both your wallet and the planet a little better off.
1. Plan ahead and buy with purpose
Ever loaded up your cart with stuff you didn't really need because the “sales end in...” timer made it seem urgent? This year, try a different approach. Make a list of things you actually need. Maybe it’s a winter coat or some upgraded study gear—think quality over quantity. Black Friday discounts can be smart buys when they’re purposeful. Write down your list, stick to it, and say goodbye to impulse buys.
2. Choose second-hand
From cozy sweaters to pre-loved books and even electronics, second-hand options are plenty! Many thrift stores and electronics shops jump in on Black Friday with their own markdowns, giving you great deals while also cutting down on waste. Plus, vintage is stylishly sustainable! Pro tip: check out sites for refurbished tech, like laptops or headphones. They’re cheaper, and you’re giving those gadgets a second life.
3. Support sustainable brands
Not everyone loves second-hand, and that's okay. You can still make a positive impact by shopping from eco-friendly brands. Sustainable products often cost more, so Black Friday is a prime time for discounts – and even some sustainable brands tend to join in. This way, shopping for these high-quality and long-lasting products is much more accessible.
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4. Resist “Buy now, pay later”
The option to “buy now, pay later” sounds like a dream, but in reality, it encourages buying beyond your budget and makes it super easy to overspend. And don't forget about the stress it’ll give you about paying it off at a later time. Set a budget and always pay for your purchases directly. That way, you’ll be more mindful of your spending, and you won’t be hit with stress when payments are due. Pro tip: figure out how much you can comfortably spend and stick to it. Your future self will thank you!
5. Use sustainable shipping options
Did you know that home delivery often has a larger carbon footprint? If you’re buying online, look for more sustainable shipping options like bike delivery or central pick-up locations. Some stores even offer a slight discount for choosing these options. Not only will you help reduce emissions, but you might also save a few bucks in the process. Every small choice adds up when it comes to a greener world.
6. Avoid Black Friday triggers
Sometimes, the best way to save is to dodge the spending triggers altogether. If Black Friday sales feel like too much, try these quick tricks:
- Use an ad blocker to dodge ads and pop-ups
- Unsubscribe from retail mailing lists before the sales hit
- Delete retail apps and “buy now, pay later” apps
- Stay busy with friends or hobbies to limit scrolling (and spending)
- Avoid shopping centers (it's too busy there anyway...)
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Shopping sustainably doesn't just contribute to a healthier planet but to a healthier wallet, too! By committing to these golden rules, you'll get to enjoy some purchases that are truly worthwhile without breaking the bank. What's on your sustainable shopping list?
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