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Expert: Best Deals May Not Be On Black Friday

PITTSBURGH (KDKA) – Some of what used to be true about saving money on Christmas gifts isn't true anymore.

The days from Thanksgiving to Cyber Monday keep changing when it comes to deals.

Shopping on Thanksgiving is controversial, but some stores are open. Some even call it Brown Thursday.

Then of course, there's the traditional Black Friday, which we're trained to think of having big deals.

Then, there's Small Business Saturday, while Sunday is still a busy shopping day. Finally, there's what has become known as Cyber Monday.

Out of those five days, the best days to shop may surprise you.

KDKA-TV's David Highfield went to the experts and has some tips to keep in mind before you head out to the stores.

Duquesne University marketing professor Dr. Audrey Guskey said the best deals won't be on Black Friday.

"Black Friday is, believe it or not, probably not the best day to shop because it's lost its luster," Dr. Guskey said.

While those door busters may be good, she said research shows you get the same deal, if not better online that same day.

Based on research done by DealNews.com, it really depends on what you want to buy.

"If you're gonna shop and you need electronics, you want a TV, you want an iPhone, iPads, those types of items, you shop on Thanksgiving because that seems to be the best prices," she said.

In addition, Guskey says stores sold less on Thanksgiving last year. As a result, they'll try harder to lure you in this year.

"The biggest sales overall are probably gonna be on Thanksgiving," she said.

DealNews says Black Friday may still be your best bet to save on other items.

"[If] you want tools and toys, you get those on Black Friday," Guskey said.

For those who like the convenience of shopping from home, you'll be happy to hear that Cyber Monday will offer the best bargains on a variety of items.

"Clothing, shoes, beauty items and interestingly enough, Androids and laptops. You buy those on Cyber Monday," Guskey said.

Now that you know what to buy and when, what items should you avoid?

Guskey said gift cards are a no-no during Thanksgiving break.

"Retailers know people are going to be buying a lot of gift cards. So, why put them on sale?" Guskey said.

She said you have a better chance of getting a deal later. The same goes for candy.

There are a couple more things to avoid when it comes to shopping over the Thanksgiving weekend.

Do not buy winter gear. Guskey said wait until right before Christmas, or even after Christmas if you can.

That goes for Christmas decorations, too.

Of course, if you can wait until after the holiday, that's always the best time to buy decorations to keep for next year.

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