Cyber Monday money saving expert shares 'key to success' for deals

As savvy shoppers prepare for big discounts online this Cyber Monday, experts have offered their own tips on how to shop smart during the online extravaganza. Whether you're looking discounted electronics or digital subscriptions, here's how to root out genuine bargains - and avoid falling into marketing traps.

According to a recent YouGov survey, almost 1 in 5 Brits are likely to make a purchase during Cyber Monday. Of those planning to shop, 35% believe they will spend the same as last year, while 10% anticipate spending more. The survey also revealed that 55% are likely to make a purchase during Black Friday or Cyber Monday usually buy tech products during mega sale events.

Nick Drewe, money-saving expert and CEO at online discount platform Wethrift, said: "The key to successful Cyber Monday shopping is preparation. Use price tracking tools, read the fine print, and don't let time-limited deals pressure you. A deal is only good if it's for something you genuinely need or have been planning to buy. Stay focused, do your research, and shop smart to make the most of this Cyber Monday."

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Here are six top tips for making the most of your Cyber Monday shopping spree.

Mobile Shopping

Optimise your smartphone for a seamless Cyber Monday experience. Start by clearing your browser cache and cookies to ensure you're seeing the most up-to-date prices. Update all shopping apps in advance, as many retailers release app-exclusive deals or early access for mobile users. Set up secure payment methods like PayPal or Apple Pay for faster checkouts, reducing the risk of missing out on time-sensitive deals. Enable push notifications for your favourite retailers, but be disciplined – create a wishlist beforehand to avoid impulsive purchases triggered by alerts.

Electronics and Gadgets

When it comes to electronics, last year's models often offer the best value on Cyber Monday. While current-gen devices might see modest discounts of 5-10%, previous models can be discounted by 20-40% or more, often with specs that are still highly competitive. For example, look for deals on last year's laptops, TVs, or smartphones. When considering bundle deals, which are common on Cyber Monday, calculate the cost of individual items to ensure you're getting a genuine bargain. Some bundles may include items you don't need, inflating the perceived value.

Digital Subscriptions

Cyber Monday is an optimal time to snag deals on digital subscriptions, from streaming services to productivity software and online learning platforms. Many services offer significant discounts on annual plans, sometimes up to 50% off. However, be cautious of auto-renewal traps. Before committing, especially to multi-year deals, thoroughly read the terms and conditions. Understand the full post-discount price and set a reminder to reassess or cancel before the renewal date. Some services may offer a discount for the first year only, so factor in long-term costs when deciding.

Smart Home Devices

Smart home technology often sees substantial discounts on Cyber Monday. Compare prices across multiple retailers, as price-matching is common during this event. Look for ecosystem bundles – for instance, a smart speaker paired with smart bulbs or plugs – which can offer better value than buying items separately. Consider future compatibility when making purchases; ensure new devices will integrate with your existing smart home setup or chosen voice assistant platform. Some retailers may offer free or discounted installation services with purchase, adding extra value to your deal.

Digital Games

For gamers, Cyber Monday coincides with major digital sales events. The Steam Autumn Sale, which typically encompasses Cyber Monday, offers significant discounts across a wide range of PC games, often 25-50% off or more. Use price tracking tools like HotUKDeals to verify if the Cyber Monday price is truly the lowest. Consider investing in annual subscriptions for services like Xbox Game Pass or PlayStation Plus, which often see their best prices of the year during this event. For in-game purchases or currency, be cautious of "limited-time" offers, as these often recur throughout the year.