Tag: Christmas sales

The popularity of Black Friday and Cyber Monday around the world is increasing with the addition of new countries in the list each year. But newbies don’t know the difference between these two biggest shopping days of the year. Here are some factors that differentiate these two annual shopping days:

Occurrence 

Black Friday is the first Friday that comes after Thanksgiving. This day is the best for bargain shopping and everything in the respective retail stores is available at highly discounted prices. Black Friday is known for the sales of expensive and bigger items. 

Cyber Monday is the first Monday that comes after Black Friday. All the bargain shopping on Cyber Monday is done online where mostly electronic items and small appliances are up for discounts. 

Which One is Better?

None of these two days can be regarded as better than the other. Black Friday used to be more rewarding for retailers and shoppers but increasing online shopping trends and the recent pandemic has brought people to online platforms more than ever. 

Therefore, you can expect to save big on both days. Retailers who are using physical as well as online stores are getting the maximum rewards from both days. 

Having a social life on a budget isn’t as hard as you think. You can still see your friends, do some weekend activities and even have a night out. 

Here are some ways you can still be social without letting your budget get the best of you…

• Be the organiser

Saying no to plans can really be a let down especially when it has to do with being on a budget. If you are the organiser with your friends you can make plans that are cheaper alternatives or cost you nothing at all. 

• Look into no-cost activities

This can include things like going on a picnic, going to a no-cost museum, take a hike, go to the beach or have a look at your local council website to see what free concerts and events are on around you. 

• Open up your home

Set a trend with your friends to have a night in at each other’s places each week. You can watch movies, set up a platter or nibblies that you’ll already have at home and even cook dinner together. By starting this trend saves you money on eating out and each person will have a turn to host.

• Try a hobbie you’ll all enjoy

Join a gym together, look for places around your state that offers you scenery for a nice day hike, start up a beach volleyball team, or take up a sport. This will cost you a fee to start with but it will save you on spending money going out to places that will cost you a whole lot more. 

With a bit of creativity and a willingness to adventure out and try new things, you can definitely maintain a social life on a budget – and it will be more fun too!

For information about other options for managing bills and debts, ring 1800 007 007 from anywhere in Australia to talk to a free and Independent financial counsellor. Talk to your electricity, gas, phone or water provider to see if you can work out a payment planIf you are on government benefits, ask if you can receive an advance from Centrelink: www.humanservices.gov.au/advancepayments.

The Government’s MoneySmart website shows you how small amount loans work and suggests other options that may help you.

* This statement is an Australian Government’s requirement under the National Consumer Credit Protection Act 2009.