I know what you’re thinking “Isn’t Black Friday Shopping for clothes, TVs, Toys, and other electronics?” No, Black Friday has expanded in many ways. That is why we’ve put together this guide for planning gluten-free Black Friday shopping.
Have A Plan of Attack For Gluten-Free Black Friday Shopping:
Much like making a holiday shopping list, you should have a list of items or food products you are looking for, before the big sales hit. These are the items you will be googling, and searching for on Amazon, Target, or wherever you shop. This way, if there is a deal to be had, you find it right off the bat and don’t waste time looking through all of the offers, because deals do sell out quickly. Once you cross off your must-haves, THEN you go through the endless pages of deals sifting for gold. Being efficient will make your search much easier, and more productive.
Make A Short List Of Stores For Gluten-Free Black Friday Shopping:
Identify brands you want to buy before Black Friday and join their mailing lists. Some brands will have onsite sales (some start before Black Friday). By joining their mailing list or having a list of sites to check, you might find better or different deals than the big box stores or Amazon might offer. Occasionally, there might not be a deal, but they might give you free shipping, or some other incentive. This is a great tip for the entirety of the holiday season- so stay on those mailing lists. If you are worried about giving out your email address you can always set up a new email account just for deals and promotions.
Items To Lookout for When Gluten-Free Black Friday Shopping:
1) Pantry Staples:
This might seem counterintuitive, but anytime there is a deal to be had, look for items that you use regularly. This can include items like:
- Gluten-free pasta: pasta tends to have a long shelf life.
- Gluten-free bread and bread products: buns, bread, English muffins etc… can all be frozen to preserve their freshness.
- Gluten-free flour: Like bread products keeping gluten-free flour in the freezer (or even fridge) will not only keep it fresher (as much of it includes xanthan gum) but will extend its shelf life.
- Gluten-Free Protein Bars: Protein bars are usually on sale. They are a great on-the-go option.
2) Favorite Snacks:
Look for specific gluten-free cookies, popcorn, chips, candy or chocolate that you enjoy. Buying several of these items would make such a thoughtful gift basket for the as hard to buy for gluten-free person, on your list. Also, these snacks are more expensive, and this might be a great way to save on something that you would be buying anyway. Or an opportunity to try something new.
3) Items you have never tried:
We all know gluten-free items are expensive and even 10% off is a welcome help. So, this is the time to try the brand of pasta you have been hearing about, a new snack bar, protein powder, or whatever item you have been interested in, this is the time to buy it and see if you enjoy it. Not to mention, sometimes there are holiday packages put together so you can try different flavours of products you already enjoy.
4) Holiday Foods:
I know it is early but think about events and gatherings you might be attending, or hosting and try to take advantage of deals. This might include:
- Gluten-free crackers or nuts for a charcuterie board
- Gluten-free chocolate for gifting
- Gluten-free candy canes
- Gluten-free treats for stocking stuffers
- Gluten-free advent calendars – check out our list to narrowdown which brands have safe options.
- Gluten-free shortbread cookies
- Gluten-free Panettone (for gift-giving, or to share with family on Christmas morning.)
5) Kitchen upgrades:
These are items that have a high chance of being a source of cross-contact in your kitchen, might make your cooking life easier, or help you have one set of items for exclusively gluten-free use- I love the idea of having a different colour for gluten-free items.
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- Toaster
- Metal colander
- Silicone spatula or utensil set
- Sponges- these need to be changed regularly or have separate ones for shared kitchens
- Metal mixing bowls
- Glass Tupperware
- Metal fish spatula
- Breadmaker with a gluten-free setting
- Digital meat thermometer
- Air Fryer
- Stainless steel pot and pan set
- Snack containers
- Insulated lunch box or cooler bag – to keep food with you safely on the go.
With this information, you will be ready to get the best gluten-free Black Friday shopping deals around, this year.
Do have any tips or must-have items that we should add to the list?
Let us know in the comments below.
Remember it is through sharing information, that we are able to help one another live our very best gluten-free lives.
Happy Shopping!
