Black Friday editors' picks: What our expert shoppers bought

It’s official: the busiest shopping season of the year is upon us and almost every retailer is offering deals on home goods, tech, beauty products and more. Whether you’re shopping online or braving stores in-person this year, Select has you covered with this collection of products our staff loves. They’re currently on sale for Black Friday , and many discounts run through Cyber Monday .

“I didn’t understand how badly I needed this cosmetic case until I got it. It has been a total game changer for when I’m traveling with extensive amounts of makeup. It may look small at first glance, but I was surprised by how I could fit everything so neatly without feeling like the bag wouldn’t zip.” — Rebecca Rodriguez, editorial projects manager.

“I try new fitness trackers and smartwatches constantly for NBC Select. [The Apple Watch Series 9] is the one that always ends up back on my wrist. The new hands-free double tap gesture makes it easier for me to start and stop workouts, especially when my hands are full, or I’m wearing lots of winter layers and don’t want to roll up my sleeves. Like previous models, it tracks health and fitness data easily and can send texts, answers calls, tap-to-pay and more. You can read the full Apple Watch Series 9 review to learn more about this Giftable Tech Awards winner.” — Harry Rabinowitz, reporter

“I’m (unfortunately) not someone who travels light on an everyday basis; I like to have a book or Kindle, a water bottle, sanitizer, snacks (of various kinds), tissues, mints, my wallet, keys, sunglasses and more with me at all times and this bag can hold it all, and then some. It’s quite light, so I’m not starting at a huge weight deficit before I add all my essentials. I also love that it’s nylon; it’s great for carrying in the rain since it dries quickly.” — Lindsay Schneider, commerce editor

“This 10x10 foot blanket is the coziest thing a brand has ever sent me to try, and I still wrap it around myself (and around and around and around) very often. Made from ultra-fluffy microfiber, Big Blanket’s Premier Plush blanket will keep you (or your giftee) cozy all holiday season long. The best part? It’s pet-friendly, so my cat Kiwi often turns it into his biscuit factory, making me feel even more comfortable..” — Kelsey Fredricks, production coordinator

“I live in these sneakers. I wear them multiple times a week and have owned them for almost two years, yet they’re still in amazing condition. I pair them with dresses, jeans and even pajama pants during early weekend coffee runs. They’re a great staple to have in your closet, and I recommend them to everyone.” — Zoe Malin, associate updates editor

“This robe won Select’s Bed and Bath Awards , and I can honestly say I would wear it all the time if I could. It is so comfortable, and unlike most robes I’ve tried, I never run hot while wearing it. It also absorbs water well, making it ideal for both post-shower and just lounging around the house. I plan to get a few more as gifts for my loved ones.” — Rebecca Rodriguez, editorial projects manager

“I have flat feet, which means I always wear slippers at home since I have hard floors. This anti-fatigue mat has been a game changer for nights when I have to stand in front of the kitchen sink to wash a pile of dishes. Whereas I used to need a stool after just a few minutes, I can stand on this comfortably for longer periods, and while barefoot, too.” — Nikki Brown, SEO editor

"Especially during the colder months, my lips can get chapped, cracked and flakey, which is not a good look. To avoid that at all costs, I apply this lip balm multiple times daily. It’s so moisturizing and hydrating, and always leaves my lips soft. The balm is also very gentle — even when my lips are in terrible condition, it doesn’t cause them to burn or sting. You can’t go wrong with any shades, but I’m obsessed with Sweet Mint, which adds a little shine without much color. It also tastes DELISH and reminds me of my favorite gum, Orbit Sweet Mint”. — Zoe Malin, associate updates editor

Why Trust Select? Ariadne Night is the editorial assistant for NBC Select. She rounded up editor and staff reviews of products they loved that are currently on sale for Black Friday and Cyber Monday.

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