-
Step 1
Organized for Black Friday!I can't stress enough that organization is the key to a successful Black Friday shopping trip!! Being organized about what you need to buy and where you need to go, will make your day an enjoyable one and not one of headaches!
-
Step 2
What do you need to buy?Start by making a list of what you need to purchase. With tough financial times this 2008 holiday season, its important to make sure that you are buying what you can afford this year. If you need to spend less, brainstorm gift ideas that fit your budget as you make your list.
-
Step 3
What stores do you want to shop at?Next, decide where you'd like to shop and make a list of the stores you'll want to check out for holiday gifts. Black Friday deals are everywhere! Malls, shopping centers, even grocery stores will have advertisements for great bargains on Black Friday!
-
Step 4
Weekly ads!For the stores on your list, check out their weekly ads. You can find the ads in your local newspaper or at the stores themselves. See what deals they are offering for Black Friday. Have your ads with you when you shop to refer to. You can look through ads from other stores as well to see if they are offering better deals. Be careful not to get off track! No needless shopping if you are on a budget!
-
Step 5
Shoes to shop in!After you have your list of gifts and list of stores, get prepared for a long day of shopping. Get a good night sleep the night before. Dress with layers if its cold so you can peel them off as you break a sweat speed shopping! Be comfortable. Comfortable clothes and shoes to walk in are a must!
-
Step 6
Early bird special!LEAVE EARLY!! The best bargains are offered as "early bird specials". Its not nearly as crowded in most places as well. By lunch time, its going to be a mob scene!
-
Step 7
Where to eat?!Make a plan for eating as well. Decide where you'll want to eat lunch out. If money is tight, consider coming home to eat lunch and dropping off your purchases before you head out again.
-
Step 8
Stay focused while shopping!While shopping, take time to stop and look at your lists. Cross things off that you purchase. It will help you stay focused. You don't want to overbuy and you don't want to forget anything either.
-
Step 9
Gift wrap and boxesRemember to check out wrapping paper and boxes for your gifts that you might need. Get them while you are in the stores. They may be free or on sale for Black Friday!
-
Step 10
Shopping receipts.Save all of your receipts. After you get home, go through receipts and label them. If you need to return something, you'll be able to find the receipt for the purchase with ease.
-
Step 11
Take a coffee break.Remember to stay organized and focused throughout this hectic shopping day and you'll have a successful Black Friday shopping trip! If the crowds are getting to you, find a place to rest and get a cup of coffee or tea to recharge.
-
Step 12
Shop online!Remember to check out Black Friday shopping online as well. Retailers have big sales posted for Black Friday online each year! You could shop in your pajamas and avoid some of the crowds! Online shopping can be done 24 hours a day too!
Comments
evascarlet said
on 11/2/2009 Ah, the joy of Black Friday... Your picture choice at the top pretty much says it all! These are great tips on how to stay organized in the midst of the chaos...
OBigDaddyO said
on 1/16/2009 I went shopping with my wife on Black Friday once - ONCE! It might be helpful if you described exactly how to put on the helmet, bulletproof vest and shoulder pads so that they don't chafe while shopping! Great article!
Biscuit4u said
on 1/14/2009 Great article. I hate this day, but I love it.
Devero said
on 1/2/2009 Great tips for that crazy day
lymanalo said
on 12/1/2008 Should have read this before Black Friday. I was a mess and a total chaos with all that activity!