As Black Friday is quickly approaching, many major retailers are gearing up to start their sales on Thanksgiving Day. Whether you’re a Black Friday pro or a first-timer, here are 10 essential tips to help you navigate the biggest shopping day of the year smoothly.
1. **Check Out Flyers and Map Your Route:** Look at emails, physical mail, and online updates for the latest store flyers and special Black Friday deals. Plan your shopping route to prioritize your must-have items, and remember that local malls might offer a variety of discounts in one convenient location.
2. **Stick to Your Shopping List:** It’s easy to get distracted by the excitement of Black Friday, but sticking to your holiday gift list will help you stay within budget. Last year, Black Friday sales hit $52.4 billion, up 16% from the previous year. Keep impulse buys in check to avoid overspending.
3. **Keep Your Smartphone Charged:** Standing in lines can be boring, so make sure your smartphone is fully charged and loaded with helpful apps like Coupon Sherpa for extra discounts, RedLaser for price checks, and Decide for making quick purchasing decisions.
4. **Fuel Up Ahead of Time:** Fill your gas tank before you head out to avoid wasting valuable shopping time at the gas station and risking missing out on deals. Carpooling with friends can save fuel and help coordinate your shopping plans.
5. **Be Prepared with Payment Options:** Keep your cash or credit cards easily accessible, and designate a spot in your wallet for receipts in case you need them for returns or price adjustments. Apps like OneReceipt can help you keep digital track of all your purchases.
6. **Use Reward Cards:** If you have a credit card that offers reward points, use it for your holiday shopping to accumulate points that you can redeem for gift cards, helping you save money in the process.
7. **Shop with a Friend and Dress in Layers:** Bringing a friend along can help you cover more ground quickly. Dress warmly for waiting in outdoor lines but wear layers you can remove once inside.
8. **Bring Snacks and Stay Hydrated:** To avoid wasting time at food stalls, pack some snacks and water. Staying fueled and hydrated will keep you energized throughout the day.
9. **Avoid the Crowds by Shopping Online:** If you’d rather skip the long lines, consider shopping online from the comfort of your home. Many retailers offer the same Black Friday deals on their websites, and some, like Sears and Sam’s Club, even start their online sales before November 23rd.
10. **Don’t Stress:** Black Friday isn’t the only time to score great deals. If you’d rather avoid the chaos, wait until Monday, December 17th, when many retailers participate in Free Shipping Day, offering significant discounts and free shipping with guaranteed pre-Christmas delivery.
By following these tips, you can make the most of your Black Friday shopping experience, whether you’re hitting the stores or shopping from home.