How to Find Black Friday Sales

Ask any holiday shopping enthusiast and you'll find that it is never too early to think sales, especially during the biggest sale bonanza known as Black Friday. Without a little preparation though, you may find more burdens than bargains when you venture out to shop. Read on for tips on how to find Black Friday sales early and get a jump start on some of the competition.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Search engine
• Email
• Newspaper
• Online sales websites

1. Set up a Google Alert for the term “Black Friday sale ad” in early September, if not sooner. If the e-mail notices become burdensome, refine the search to include your geographic or gift interest area by adding more keywords, such as "Black Friday electronics sale." Optionally, select “digest” mode to receive a once-a day mailing. Though you will receive unusable information, this is an effective way to find Black Friday sales early for use both online and off.

2. Find Black Friday sales information via your favorite merchant websites. One of the best ways to do so is to sign up for their mailing list if one is available. If you're concerned about spam, you may wish to create a free email account dedicated to your money saving ventures. Mobile phone updates may be also be available but weigh the cost of text messaging in ratio to potential savings.

3. Talk to your local merchants prior to the Black Friday hustle and bustle. If you are a regular customer, especially, you may sway someone to provide you tips or pre-season advice. Ask if there is a way to be notified of unadvertised and other specials at privately-owned shops. Additionally, sign up for a postal mailing list, which may contain Black Friday sales information not provided online.

4. Visit websites dedicated to Black Friday sales and secrets. These include forums and blogs with daily updates, sales codes and in-demand Black Friday sales advice. One primo resource is Bfads.net which is typically equipped with mobile phone updates. ShopLocal.com is another good place to find local merchant ads online. Check their list of retailers to be sure that the ones you're interested in are included.

5. Sign up for a local newspaper subscription if you plan not to miss any Black Friday sales information in your town. This you can generally begin a bit closer to Black Friday or during October. If you live in a large city or town, a good portion of the information may make its way online.

Tips & Warnings

• Seek tips from Black Friday veterans such as parents, in-laws and friends even if you're not one to typically solicit advice. When it comes to effective Black Friday sale shopping and techniques, those in the know can be a big help.

[MidniteWriter]

on 6/9/2008 Good things I never would have thought of, thank you! I will be prepared this season.