We are well into November and that means the day we love to hate is right around the corner: Black Friday. While we all look forward to Thanksgiving, spending time with family, and turkey this time of the year, Black Friday might be the most anticipated event of the holiday season. And it’s not for the faint of heart.
Black Friday shopping can notoriously be crazy and overwhelming but that’s because there are some great deals to be found. The only catch is that you have to be willing to brave the crowds. In order to tackle Black Friday and get what you want at the price you want, you have to arrive with a game plan. Here are five steps to surviving Black Friday:
Check Online First
Before you head to the mall, start your Black Friday shopping online. You should do this the week leading up to Black Friday. Many retailers will post their upcoming sales, for both in-store and online, in advance. Look at your favorite retailers’ websites and see if there are any deals worth waiting for.
Make a Shopping List
You should prepare a shopping list as Black Friday deals get announced. The worst mistake you can make is heading to the store on that day not knowing what you want to get. It’s going to be a chaotic scene and you want to know exactly what you’re there for and where you need to go in the store to get it.
Create a Schedule
After you have your shopping list and know what you want, it’s time to create a game plan or schedule. Prioritize your list and plan to the get the items you want the most first. Otherwise, some goods may be sold out. Do your research and know when the stores you want to go to are opening. Many will open earlier for Black Friday and there may already be a line forming before the store opens.
Prepare for a Long Day
Black Friday is going to be a long day and while this may sound silly, you need to prepare yourself for it, physically and mentally. Make sure you eat a hearty breakfast and dress warm if you’re going to be outdoors. Bring water and snacks to keep yourself hydrated. Also, brace yourself mentally for tough and rowdy crowds. Big deals can bring the worst out in some people.
Divide & Conquer
The best plan of action is to divide and conquer if you are heading to the stores with family and friends. You’re most likely to get the deals you want if you get there early and it’s easier to hit up more stores when there are more people. Combine your shopping lists to see if there is any overlap and then assign certain items to certain people.
Bonus Tip: Stay at Home
While Black Friday can be exciting and fun, it’s also madness. If there’s nothing you really want or need, just stay at home and enjoy the long holiday weekend. Many retailers also have great deals online so you can shop from the comfort of your own home without missing out on much.
What are your plans this Black Friday?
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I find that the closer you get to Christmas the better the prices get. So if there is nothing you have to have on black Friday just wait it out and you may find you will come out better price wise.
I learned about the benefits of waiting the hard way! After waiting for years to buy a electric drill I finally bought one 3 weeks ago on Amazon. Of course, American Express offers a $15 statement credit for purchases $60 or more at Amazon a week after I buy it!!
I definitely agree with this sentence “You should prepare a shopping list as Black Friday deals get announce.” as it is one of the most important things you need to keep in mind before go shopping. It helps you disciplined yourself and only stick to what are listed so that you avoid ruining your budget.
A shopping list is a simple but extremely effective way to spend less. Good luck in your Black Friday shopping this year! 🙂