It’s that time of year again when millions of Americans wake up at the crack of dawn to buy the hottest products with the biggest deals. From local shops to record-breaking malls, people gather outside the doors ready to barge in and get the deals. However, before you stand in line and charge in those doors, there is some preparing you should do beforehand. Luckily, I have you covered with 10 important tips on how to conquer the chaos and survive the crowds this Black Friday.
#1: Make a list of your desired items.
Before you enter the store, browse through the announced deals online and in advertisements the stores have mailed out. In fact, many stores have already released their deals for 2019. By going into the store with ideas of what you want, you can snatch it up before it runs out.
#2: Figure out what time the store opens.
If you are dead set on one specific item, I’m sure many others are too. In order to assure you get it before the item runs out, you will need to be one of the first ones in line. Black Friday affects the hours of most stores, so make sure you pay attention to the adjusted hours.
#3: Wear proper apparel.
Most people aren’t new to the idea of “dressing for an occasion,” and Black Friday is not an exception to this rule. In many places in the United States, the end of November can be a chilly time. Since you’ll be waking up at the crack of dawn (or before, in some cases), the sun won’t be there to give you warmth yet. Therefore, you need to make sure to wear warm clothes. This includes your shoes—wear comfortable shoes that you can stand in and walk fast. If you are in northern states including Minnesota, I definitely recommend wearing a winter hat, mittens and maybe even hand warmers.
#4: Be polite.
Yes, you read that correctly. Everybody hates the person who is rude to the employees. Many of the employees are flustered and all are just trying their best. If you happen to be the first person in line— congrats! —stay at least five feet away from the door. If an item rings up at the wrong price, be patient with the cashier because it isn’t their fault. All employees have rules they need to follow, so be patient and polite. By being nice to employees, they will return the kindness and you will be better off.
#5: Know the store layout.
If you are going to a local store, it won’t be that bad. However, if you plan on going to a mall or big store that you aren’t used to, go there a few days ahead and get yourself acquainted with the layout.
#6: Research the normal prices.
Let’s face it—sale prices aren’t always as good as they seem to be. Sometimes the store says the hot item is 70% off, but sometimes it might be cheaper to buy online. By researching the normal price of items, you may realize Black Friday isn’t worth the hassle at all. You can also save money or get even more excited about that super good deal—and who doesn’t love those two feelings?
#7: Pack a snack.
If you plan on making an entire day of shopping, you are going to need proper nutrients—otherwise you will literally “shop ‘til you drop.” Pack a granola bar, nuts or a juice box in your purse or jacket pocket.
#8: Go with a friend.
Going shopping alone is boring. Standing in line while waiting to shop is even more boring. Make sure you bring a friend with to wait in line, navigate and maybe even protect you this Black Friday. Trust me—you will thank me later.
#9: Have fun.
If you decide to go shopping on the most chaotic shopping day in the United States, find a way to have fun. Listening to upbeat music, joking with friends and maintaining a positive mindset throughout the day are all ways to have fun amidst the grumpy soccer moms and blonde bimbo girls.
#10: Stay home.
The easiest way to survive Black Friday is to stay home. Growing up, I never understood why people went out shopping the day directly after we give thanks for what we have. However, corporate America somehow sucked me in, which is why I wrote this article. But if you really want the simplest answer to conquer the chaos, this tip is for you.
I wish you all the best this Black Friday! I hope my tips are able to help you conquer the chaos and survive. Good luck, Warriors!
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