Black Friday Buyer's Guide: What Is Worth Buying and What to Skip

Black Friday, which falls on November 27 this year, is a good time to fill gaps in your kit if you shop with a plan. The goal is not to buy more gear. It is to buy the right gear at a better price. Use this guide before the sales begin.

Step 1: Make your list first

Before you open a single sale page, write down what you actually need. Check your current kit against our 72-hour checklist and note missing or aging items. If an item is not on the list, it is not a deal, no matter how steep the discount.

Step 2: Check the real price

Retailers sometimes raise a price before a sale so the discount looks larger. Track the price for a few weeks using a price history tool or by checking the product page in the days before. Compare the "sale" price to what the item has typically sold for.

Gear that is usually worth buying on sale

• Backpacks and bags: Well-made packs rarely wear out, so a good price on a quality pack is a lasting win.
• Headlamps and flashlights: Quality lights are a staple of every kit, and lighting is a common discount category.
• Water filters and bottles: A solid filter is among the best safety investments you can make.
• Cold-weather clothing and sleeping bags: Winter items are in demand now, so check the stock early.
• Multitools and knives from established makers: Choose proven designs with good warranties.

Gear to be careful with

• Huge all-in-one kits at a bargain price: The cheapest kits often include low-quality knives, lights and tools. Check the contents list item by item.
• Unknown-brand batteries and power banks: Poor-quality cells can be a safety risk.
• Stick with brands you can verify.
• Food kits with long shelf-life claims: Check dates, ingredients and calories per serving rather than marketing claims.
• Medical supplies: Look for sealed packaging and expiration dates.

Step 3: Read the return policy

A good price is no help if the item fails. Check the warranty and return window, especially for tools you will rely on. Take photos of packaging and receipts.

Step 4: Set a budget and stick to it

Decide a total before you start, and prioritize in this order: water, warmth, light, first aid, tools, then extras.

Our Black Friday deals

Holiday deals: keep an eye on our homepage and the full shop for any seasonal promotions.

Next step

See this week's deals and sign up for our list to get alerts.