When it comes to the biggest shopping day of the year, Black Friday, it’s important to know just how to go about it and make the most out of your shopping experience.
Here are 11 ways to get have the best experience possible post Thanksgiving shopping escapade.
1. Map out your stores.
Know which stores you are going to in which area. If you’re staying in one area, this doesn’t matter quite as much. However, if you’re going to be hopping from mall to mall, then it will be key to know which mall has a Victoria’s Secret and which mall has an Ulta.
2. Know what time which sales are happening.
In recent years, stores have been opening earlier and earlier. While years back some used to open at 10 or midnight, many are now opening around 5 PM on Thanksgiving, closing at midnight, then reopening in the early morning! Knowing which stores are open when and if there is a certain time frame their sales go on will be crucial. Stores like Walmart tend to be open all night, while malls often close and then reopen during sunrise; be mindful of this!
3. Look at those newspaper insert ads your family member left on the coffee table at Thanksgiving
Doing your homework and knowing what stores will have the best price on the “must haves” for the year will be important in making your final decision. Some stores may offer gift cards with their products, some may give you a free item, and some may just have a discounted price. It is important to determine which stores have the best value in order to get your best deals.
4. Getting there on TIME!
I’m not saying you have to camp out in line and miss out on your Thanksgiving dinner. However, if Target is having a really good deal on that new TV you’re trying to get, don’t be surprised if they don’t have it within a few hours after they have opened.
5. Bring a friend or family member as a buddy.
Unless they’re the ones you’re specifically looking to shop for, having a partner in crime while doing your shopping is always a plus. They can give you insight when you’re unsure whether or not you should buy that new jacket, save a spot for you in the wrap around lines while you guys switch out, and help you carry your shopping bags to the car. Not to mention it just makes it all the more fun!
6. If a store is out of what you’re looking for, don’t panic.
There are so many websites out there who may also have the deals you are looking for, many of which may even have free shipping. Never hesitate to check out another store or even wait until Cyber Monday. There are many more deals to be had then, too!
7. If you’re shopping for others, try to limit shopping for yourself.
If your purpose is to shop for your loved ones, try not to give in and buy that vest for 40% off or those boots you’ve been dying to have. As much as you may want them, if you’re holiday shopping for others, then you should try to keep it that way. Hey, maybe you can even send a picture of that thing you’ve been dying to have to your best friend or mom who’s also out Black Friday shopping!
8. Make sure you’re ACTUALLY getting a deal.
You might assume that you’re getting all of the best deals because it’s Black Friday, but this isn’t always the case. In reality, many items aren’t even close to being set at the best price. As a rule of thumb, don’t buy any clothing items that aren’t 40% off or more because chances are you can get a better deal before the holidays approach.
9. Come with a list of who you’re shopping for and include what you might want to get them.
This will better your chance of forgetting to buy for that one person you always seem to miss and will lessen the chance of you accidentally spending $300 on your boyfriend (all within in a matter of two hours).
10. Bring snacks, bring snacks, bring snacks!
Yes, you’re full from Thanksgiving. No, you won’t be full forever. Bring some snacks because unfortunately, Wendy’s and Taco Bell aren’t open all night. You’re going to get hungry! Believe me! No one wants to shop on an empty stomach.
11. Try to keep a SMILE on your face. :)
You are guaranteed to get annoyed with all of the other people trying to do the same thing as you are; some are going to be more obnoxious than others. However, try to keep in mind the holiday that you just celebrated and be thankful that you are able to be out and shopping. :) it’s supposed to be a good time, not a stressful one! Have fun!
HCXO
Jen Van Strander