We’ve all seen the warnings – don’t be tempted to buy things you don’t need and beware of scams (scroll down for more on that) and think before you shop.
But for those who shop wisely, there’s a chance to stock up on the things you know you already wanted, rather than being swayed by bargain deals, and save big on household items, Christmas gifts and genuine deals.
This is what’s in my basket today, in case you wanted to see what a personal finance journalist might buy.
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Here’s what’s in my basket this Black Friday 2025
Right now, shoppers can save big on some of the most sought-after kids’ play sets and toys from John Lewis – with 10% cashback. Plus, if you’re a new member, you can get an extra £15 sign-up bonus on a £15+ spend – which means deals on the kids’ toys, but only until December 1.
I’m going for the John Lewis Wooden Air Fryer, one of the retailer’s top 10 toys of the year. For new members of TopCashback and all customers of John Lewis: £7 after cashback (In sale £24, RRP £20).
To claim the offer, new members of TopCashback need to sign up via www.topcashback.co.uk/newsquest
- Search for John Lewis and click ‘Get Cashback Now’.
- Shop and checkout as usual.
Cashback will then track and appear in your TopCashback account within 7 working days of your purchase. The cashback will become payable (and available to withdraw and spend) after John Lewis has paid TopCashback the commission for your purchase.
The first ceramic air styler, the AIRE 360 has a 1500+ waiting list when it launched. At half the price of the new Dyson Air Wrap, it creates effortless, bouncy blow-dries and curls that last all day without heat damage, thanks to ceramic barrel technology.
It’s available on Look Fantastic, Debenhams, Next, Beauty Bay and Amazon, but for Black Friday you can get it from the T3 website with £50 off, plus 25% off the full brand on their UK website.
£249.99 town to £199.99
Ultenic D10 Robot Vacuum with Mop
I’m very much of the belief that technological advances should mean robots doing our chores, so I’ve tried a fair few labour-saving devices at home, and this is my favourite.
It’s better value than most of its rivals, and with powerful 4000Pa suction it gives pretty good cleaning across all floor types with automatic suction boost on carpets.
I have one already and I’m getting another this Prime Day to use upstairs. It cleans for up to 150 minutes; auto-recharges and resumes cleaning from where it left off.
This new one lets you customise cleaning sequences, from post-playdate mess to kitchen clean-ups, so I’m looking forward to trying that out.
Usually £249.99, Black Friday deal £139.99
Amazon Fire HD Kids Pro tablet
There’s 45% off these great kids’ tablets. I have them for my kids and they have lasted well, and offer good parental controls. There’s a no-quibble two-year warranty too – I’ve had two replaced over the years with no fuss. This time I’ve upgraded from an 8 to a 10, which has a better screen for watching films on the go.
Usually £199.99, now £109.99
Ohuhu Pupe Paper Friendly Colouring Pens
The Christmas holidays loom large, and Black Friday is a good chance to stock up on art and craft materials to keep kids busy – and away from screens. These Ohuhu Pupe Paper-Friendly Color Markers are fantastic for adults and older kids, with both a 1-7mm soft brush tip and a 0.4mm fineliner. The Honolulu also comes with a free carrying case to keep the markers organised, and are a great stocking filler. They have 24% off on Amazon until December 1.
Pupe set, usually £25.99, now £19.75
A changing robe from Red Equipment
Red Equipment is the B Corp destination for outdoor enthusiasts. The range includes waterproof changing robes, dry ponchos and bags, quick-dry towelling change robes and accessories, all made from premium materials for all-weather adventures and memory-making moments. Mine is super snuggly and I even got a junior one for my elder daughter, which has been brilliant in the bad weather.
Their Black Friday deals include:
https://red-equipment.co.uk/collections/kids-dry-poncho – 50% off
https://red-equipment.co.uk/collections/coolers – 20% off
https://red-equipment.co.uk/products/waterproof-tote-bag-storm-blue-33l – 20% off
https://red-equipment.co.uk/products/mens-pursuit-waterproof-lightweight-changing-robe-jacket-obsidian-black- down from £209.95 to £159.95
Recommended reading:
Top tips to prevent Black Friday financial scams
According to a recent survey from Compare the Market , over 1 in 10 (12%) Brits have experienced financial fraud around Black Friday, and 15% have been targeted around Christmas.
“During busy spending seasons, it’s worth taking a moment to stay mindful of online safety,” says Personal finance expert at Compare the Market, Charlie Evans.
“Scammers often take advantage of busy shopping periods by creating fake websites and social ads that closely resemble trusted brands, making it all too easy to be tempted by deals that aren’t what they seem. Before you buy, take a moment to double-check the web address and consider using a credit card for added protection if your purchase doesn’t go as planned.”
- Take a moment before you act: Even if something feels urgent, pausing to think can help you stay safe. Scammers often try to create pressure, so you react quickly.
- Always double-check: Before transferring money or sharing personal details, take time to verify the request. If you receive a message or call that seems unusual, contact the company or person directly using official contact details – never reply to the original message.
- Make use of your bank’s support: Most UK banks offer online scam education, security alerts and 24-hour fraud helplines. If you think you’ve been scammed, report it to your bank straight away. They can investigate, support refund requests, and help monitor future suspicious activity.
- Talk about it : Scams can happen to anyone, but too often people feel embarrassed to admit it. Our research found that over a third (34%) of those who had been scammed felt ashamed. Talking about it with friends and family helps raise awareness and protect others from similar traps.
