If you’re anything like me, I wait, on pins and needles, for Black Friday to get here. It’s a huge family/friend affair. We caravan to our favorite stores with Starbucks in hand, and fight the ever-growing crowds of fellow shoppers. It’s enthralling! However, without proper preparation, it can be a nightmare and almost as disappointing as your mom’s new healthy incorporation at Thanksgiving dinner! Check out these tips and ads below to do it right!
1. Have a plan!
Sounds simple, right? Maybe, but make sure you and your crew have an idea of which stores you would like to hit up and for which deals. Have a route planned, and know when your stores are opening. Hint: Target is opening at 8PM this year for Black Friday shopping. Golly gee! That’s barely enough time to get rid of your turkey coma!
2. Have paper and plastic!
Some lines are specifically for cash or credit/debit. If those lines are shorter, why not prepare for both! The key is to expect the unexpected!
3. Ditch the cart!
C’mon! Only newbs use shopping carts. They slow you down, create in-store traffic jams, and are probably going to have a broken wheel, which will most definitely annoy you! If you HAVE to have a shopping cart, try to stay on the outer sections of the store with it. There tends to be less traffic in these areas.
4. Download an app!
My favorite Black Friday sales app was recommended to me by a friend. It’s called Black Friday Deal Finder 2013 by FatWallet.com. It has almost any store you can imagine. You can also view their sales ads from the app, so you know it’s legit!
5. Have fun!
Black Friday shopping is supposed to be an exciting, fun experience! Don’t stress yourself out over anything! Chances are, if you don’t get it on Black Friday, it will probably be on sale online on Cyber Monday (basically Black Friday, but online on the Monday after Thanksgiving)!
Find great deals, and may the odds be ever in your favor!
-Krysta, Residence Director for UP I