2008 Holiday Shopping Tips: 5 Ways to Save a Bundle

Christmas usually seems to creep up on us each year. However, this year it really has. The sales at an all time low, stores have set up their displays, and started their Holiday specials earlier then ever before. So when, and where should we do our holiday shopping in order to get the best deals? This guide will help you get started on filling them Holiday wish list, without breaking the bank.

BLACK FRIDAY

Black Friday is the first Friday following Thanksgiving. There are some great deals to be found on Black Friday, if you know what you are doing. First thing you should do is find a "Black Friday" website that you like. Sites such as www.blackfriday.info are great for keeping the public informed on upcoming deals. Ads start to appear on these sites months before you'll find them in the paper. The next thing you must do is get your local paper on Thanksgiving Day, and search the sales. This allows you time to check to see if any stores added more to their ad, and look at photo's of the items. Once you know what deals you want to grab, make a map of your area, and plan out your day. Keep in mind that door busters, and "while supplies last" usually go first. Do not think your going to sleep in on Black Friday, and still find everything you want on sale. Plan to be at your first store a half hour before their doors open. This will allow you time if you run late, and if not you'll have a great place in line. Once your inside, don't waste time. Grab the deals you came for, scout quickly for unadvertised deals, and get out of there. Wasting to much time at one store, will cost you a bargain at the next.

CYBER MONDAY

Cyber Monday takes place the first Monday following Thanksgiving. There are some awesome deals online, but be very careful. Before making a purchase check S&H prices, return policies, and the security of the site. You don't want to type in your credit card number if the site is not secure.

DOOR BUSTERS AND ONE DAY ONLY SALES

This trick works time and time again. You offer an item for $9.99 that usually sells for $49.99 and the next thing you know your store is packed. The reason for this is companies know that there is a 90% chance that a customer will buy more then just the "door buster". You can find some wonderful gifts by shopping for door busters, and one day only sales. Just tell yourself "I'm only buying this item", get it, and leave.

OUTLET STORES

Outlet and Closeout stores such as Biglots, are great places to find bargains. You can't expect to find the years hottest toys there, but you can find plenty of other items. Just use care so that you don't overspend. Know who you need to buy for, and what you plan on spending before you get there.

PRE-OWNED

Buying used items to give as gifts might not appeal to all of us. However, with some items used, is acceptable. Lets say you have a teenager who wants an electric guitar. What if you could buy a like new electric guitar, and amp for just a small percentage of a new one. It's time to lose your pride, and check out your local Pawn Shop. You can also find great pre-owned deals via the web on sites such as www.ebay.com , and www.craigslist.com .

There are plenty of ways to make the Holidays affordable. However, it does take effort, and time to do so. In the end it is all worth it, and you'll be proud of yourself. Have a Happy Holiday everyone.