Wirecutter’s Jason Chen Breaks Down Your Biggest Black Friday & Holiday Shopping Doubts

Jason Chen answers your top Black Friday shopping questions. Jason Chen answers your top Black Friday shopping questions.

29. Jason Chen’s Ultimate Black Friday Checklist (Must-Read)

Jason Chen’s checklist covers planning, deal tracking, budgeting, and smart shopping strategies for Black Friday.
Jason Chen’s checklist covers planning, deal tracking, budgeting, and smart shopping strategies for Black Friday.

A key highlight of Jason’s annual advice is his detailed Black Friday preparation checklist.

The Final Checklist:

  • Make a list of what you truly need
  • Identify target price range for each item
  • Track each product’s price history
  • Compare across 3–5 major retailers
  • Use price trackers for alerts
  • Avoid deals without model numbers
  • Read expert reviews first
  • Never buy at first sight—verify value
  • Check return and warranty policy
  • Use price matching if available
  • Screenshot everything (invoice + listing)
  • Avoid last-minute panic buying

Jason believes following this checklist can save shoppers 20–50% more, compared to impulse-buying.