How to Get the Deal Without the Debt
Love it or hate it, Black Friday is officially part of South Africa’s shopping DNA. Every November, millions of us fill our carts (real and virtual) to chase those once-a-year markdowns on everything from sneakers to fridges.
And while the sales are real, so are the consequences of overspending.
According to reports, South Africans swiped a record R139 billion during Black Friday 2024, up R12.2 billion from the year before. It’s a surge that economists call “a sign of economic strain wrapped in retail excitement.” Because behind those flashing SALE banners, too many shoppers are still paying for last year’s “deals”. With interest.
ALSO READ: Explore LayUp’s Store Directory for Participating Merchants
Credit’s Hidden Price Tag
Financial experts are warning consumers to pause before they swipe. Neil Roets, CEO of Debt Rescue, calls Black Friday a “double-edged sword” – one that can bring short-term relief but long-term regret if funded by credit.
The National Financial Ombud, Nerosha Maseti, puts it plainly: “The best deal is one that doesn’t cost your peace of mind.” Because here’s the truth: high-interest debt, missed repayments, and “Januworry” blues are what often follow those too-good-to-be-true promotions. That quick store credit approval? It can quickly spiral into a year-long repayment plan you didn’t actually plan for.
The Smarter Way to Save
But what if you could get the deal and keep your financial sanity?
That’s where LayUp comes in: South Africa’s Save Now, Buy Later (SNBL) platform built to help you shop smarter, not harder.
Here’s how it works (3 Steps):
- Lock in your Black Friday prices early — no credit, no interest.
- Pay them off at your own pace — over flexible instalments.
- Collect your goods once fully paid — debt-free and stress-free.
It’s the same thrill of a great deal, without the sting of an overdue bill.
Practical Tips for a Debt-Free Black Friday
If you’re planning to shop this season, here’s how to stay in control and out of debt:
- Set a budget and stick to it. Know what you can afford before the sales start.
- Make a list of what you actually need. Impulse buys are the enemy of financial peace.
- Compare prices early — not everything labelled “Black Friday” is a valid discount.
- Skip the credit. Use cash, debit, or LayUp to spread payments interest-free.
- Think long-term. Ask: “Will this still feel like a smart purchase in January?”
The Bottom Line
Black Friday should feel empowering, not stressful and exhausting. When you shop with intention – and avoid the debt traps – you’re not just saving money; you’re reclaiming control.
The smartest shoppers aren’t the ones who spend the most. They’re the ones who plan, skip the credit, and walk into December with their finances (and peace of mind) intact.
Keen to learn more about LayUp? Sign up as a customer today.
