One thing you absolutely must have on Black Friday is a game plan. You can not simply walk into the store and casually browse the shelves. Most stores are complete chaos during these massive sales. Not only do you need to know exactly what you're looking for, but you also need to know how to take advantage of the most deals. Let's take a closer look at how to create a game plan for Black Friday shopping.
Make a List Based on Priority
There will be items you need and items you'd just like to have. Make sure that the items with the highest priority are the items you go after first. For example, if you want a new TV, make sure you're in line to get one. You can then shop for the other items, such as cheap lounge pants or marked down jewelry. It's better to get the item you really wanted and not find any of the other items than to leave without the item you really wanted.
Pay Close Attention to Hours
Each store opens at different hours for Black Friday. Some stores are even open on Thanksgiving and throughout the night. This means that you need to be in stores the night before Black Friday if you want to score awesome deals. If a store opens at 5AM, be there several hours early to get the best spot in line. Check out this list of store Black Friday start times.
Skip the Buggy
Unless you're buying something large, skip the buggy. It will only slow you down. Aisles are crammed with special deals during Black Friday, not to mention other shoppers. You'll have an advantage when you're able to quickly maneuver the crowds.
Divide and Conquer
It doesn't matter if you're shopping at just one store or want to shop at several. It pays to have a shopping buddy. This allows you to each grab different items. It also helps ensure that you find all the items on your list.
Shop Online While In Line
Last, but not least, check the cell phone reception in the store before Black Friday. If you have great reception in the store, you can shop online while standing in line for other items. Isn't technology awesome? You can get that big TV at Walmart, while shopping for Blu-Rays on Amazon.
Black Friday shopping can land you with some awesome deals. However, you need to make sure that you have an awesome game plan. By doing just a bit of planning, you can help ensure that you get the best deals.