Each year Americans nationwide enter the Hunger Games. Hunger for bargains that is. Black Friday, Nov. 28, this year, is the notorious day after Thanksgiving when crazy crowds of pajama-clad mothers shove everyone out the way for the best deal cooking sets and low-key shoppers turn into beasts for the most amazing discounts. Black Friday Shoppers are starting to prepare for this hectic day and aren’t wasting no time. If it’s your first time on the Black Friday shuttle, there’s no need to fret Collegiettes, as HC Adelphi has got you covered with tips on how you can survive this chaotic day.
Tag-Team: You’re going to need all the strength you can need in weaving through the crowds of people and there truly is strength in numbers. While you’re rummaging through the racks, you can have your friends waiting on the lines and then have them try to find some deals as you wait too.
Plan it out: It’s time to empty that piggy bank you’ve been saving for Disney World (Jk, please don’t use it for Black Friday!) and put some money aside for the big day. That way you won’t be tempted to purchase other items you probably don’t need, even if they’re available at attractive prices. For those targeting the door-busting deals, you should probably arrive at the store several hours before it opens. Bundle up and bring extra blankets because you’re probably going to be waiting outside for a while.
Dress for Success: If you have the “survival of the fittest” mentality ready to go, then you’re definitely going to be running through aisles. Make sure to wear something comfortable. Go for your coziest pair of sweats and sneakers. Avoid wearing big coats–when you take it off, it will be another thing to carry around. Cross-body bags are ideal for this day and will leave your arms free for carrying extra bags. Make sure to also keep your money in a safe place, Black Friday is a pick pocketer’s favorite day to earn. (Yikes!)
Do your Research: Check the websites of your favorite stores for deals and any promotions they might be offering. Many Black Friday prices are available on the websites of retailers. BlackFriday.com is a great website that lists deals from different department stores and this way you will already know ahead of time what deals you’re going after.
Relax! Although this day can get stressful, remember to relax. It’s not the end of the world if you didn’t get to take advantage of the 80% off baking set deal that you were inspired to buy because Taylor Swift makes baking look fun. There are still plenty of holiday sales after Black Friday that will offer deals just as great. Don’t just focus on the sales but on the experience.
Black Friday is one of the best days of the year to start your early holiday shopping, but it’s not the only day of the year to damage your wallet. There’s also Cyber Monday which is starting to become even more popular. You can shop awesome sales in your pjs and lucky for you, you can avoid having to fight with those aggressive mothers. So remember, if you’re going to participate in this year’s Black Friday, then go prepared and have fun. Happy Bargain Games and May the odds be ever in your favor! (Mockingjay spirit anyone?) Good luck Collegiettes and happy shopping this holiday season.