The holiday season is approaching fast, and so are some of the year’s biggest shopping days:
- Black Friday: November 28, 2025
- Cyber Monday: December 1, 2025
For families in South Carolina and Georgia, this is the perfect time to snag deals on gifts, electronics, home goods, and more. But without a game plan and the right funds, it’s easy to overspend and end up with post-holiday financial stress.
That’s why Sunset Finance and Flight Finance created this Black Friday and holiday shopping guide. We’ll help you prepare, save smart, and show you how a personal installment loan can keep your budget balanced while still giving your family the holiday they deserve.
Step 1: Set Your Holiday Shopping Budget
Before you even browse the ads, decide how much you can afford to spend this season. Break it down into:
- Gifts (family, friends, coworkers)
- Holiday meals & travel
- Decorations & extras
Stick to these limits as you plan your Black Friday purchases.
Step 2: Make the Most of Black Friday & Cyber Monday Deals
Black Friday (Nov 28) and Cyber Monday (Dec 1) are the best times of the year to find deep discounts, but going in without a plan is like shopping blindfolded. Here’s how to shop smarter:
Do Your Research Early
- Compare prices at big retailers like Target, Walmart, Belk, and Best Buy in South Carolina and Georgia.
- Bookmark items you know you want and track their prices online.
- Create a “must-buy” list so you don’t get distracted by flashy sales.
Set a Time & Spending Limit
- Give yourself a time window when shopping. The longer you browse, the more likely you’ll splurge.
- Online shopping? Use a gift list and stop once you’ve checked it off.
Use Rewards Programs & Coupons
- Sign up for loyalty programs before Black Friday, many stores offer early access sales or exclusive coupons to members.
- Apps like Rakuten or Honey can apply coupons automatically for online shopping.
Don’t Forget Local Retailers
- In SC & GA, many small businesses participate in Small Business Saturday (Nov 29, 2025) with great discounts.
- Supporting local shops not only gets you unique gifts but also keeps your holiday dollars in your community.
Pro Tip: Watch for Early-Bird Deals
- Many retailers release their Black Friday deals the week before Thanksgiving.
- Sign up for store emails and push notifications to snag items before they sell out.
- Some Georgia and South Carolina stores even open sales on Thanksgiving night, so be prepared if you’re hunting for high-demand items.
Local Advantage: Shopping early in SC & GA means shorter lines, better parking, and first access to doorbusters before they’re gone.
Step 3: Shop Smart This Holiday Season
Not every deal happens on Black Friday. Keep saving through December with these tips:
- Use cashback apps or your store credit program for extra discounts.
- Shop bulk for essentials like wrapping paper, snacks, and holiday supplies.
- Spread out purchases week by week to avoid draining your paycheck all at once.
Step 4: Cover Extra Holiday Costs with a Personal Installment Loan
Sometimes even the best budget isn’t enough, especially with travel, food, and last-minute gifts in the mix. Instead of maxing out credit cards, consider a personal installment loan from Sunset Finance or Flight Finance.
Why this works for holiday shopping:
- Fixed monthly payments = predictable budgeting
- Lower rates than most credit cards
- Fast approvals at our local branches in South Carolina and Georgia
- Borrow just what you need to avoid unnecessary debt
This way, you can shop Black Friday with confidence, knowing you have a safe, affordable repayment plan.
Step 5: Enjoy a Stress-Free Holiday Season
The holidays should be about creating memories, not worrying about money. With smart planning and a little help from Sunset Finance or Flight Finance, you can:
Visit your nearest office in South Carolina or Georgia today or start your application online to get the funds you need before the season begins.