Holiday Shopping: Making the Most Out of Black Friday Ads

It is almost hard to believe that the year has zoomed by and Black Friday is right around the corner. Even if the economy has been tight this year, many shoppers will be out trying to sort through sales to find the perfect gift. There is almost something exciting about shopping on the day after Thanksgiving - Christmas music usually fills the air, the store displays seem prettier and brighter, and the selection and sales are usually amazing. Here are some tips to help you maximize your shopping experience and take advantage of those Black Friday advertisements.

1. Read the Black Friday advertisements in advance. Compare ads and be sure to select the store that provides the best price.

2. Read the hours the store is opened. Keep in mind that many stores open early or stay open late for the big holiday season. Be the early bird when possible. Stores will appear the neatest and items are more likely to be in stock.

3. Call ahead and ask the store if they have the advertised item in stock and how many are in stock. If there are only a few, be sure to get to the store before the doors open. It will be worth it to be the first one in the door to get the price and item you want.

4. Find out if the item is available online at the sale price. If so, you may want to avoid the store and just take care of it from your computer.

5. Remember, stores only have to supply items "while supplies last". Sometimes there may be a supply of only one so the first to come gets the item.

6. If possible, visit the store the day before the sale. If the item is in demand and in limited supply, knowing where the item is located will give you an edge on getting to it first.

7. Particularly with sized items or electronics, window shop online and write out the appropriate dimensions, if appropriate, so you know exactly what you see. The fewer in store questions you have, the better. Remember at Christmas time, the store is bound to be filled with temporary help who will not know the products well. Even if you have to call with questions, you are better off getting your answers before you actually shop.

8. Go to the store with a friend. If you really want the item, she can drop you off by the store entrance and you will not have to drive around trying to find parking while someone else manages to beat you to the last sale item.

9. Clip out competitors' advertisements. If you do not have the ad for the exact store near you, ask if the store will take competitors' ads. Surprisingly, many stores are happy to do so.

10. Put the coupons in your car or pocketbook right away. There is nothing worse than arriving at the store and realizing you forgot your coupon.

11. Particularly, if you are purchasing the item as a gift, find out about the return policy. One store I know actually gives gift receipts, but only refunds money up to the lowest price in thirty days even if the person has a gift receipt. If the store has this policy, provide the regular receipt in an envelope.