How to Prepare for Black Friday Shopping

Before you know it, you'll be jumping out of bed at 4am and rushing off to Black Friday sales. But, will you be fully prepared? Have you made your list and checked it twice? Do you know which store has the best deals? Before rushing out the door, make sure you have taken time to prepare for your Black Friday shopping experience.

How to Prepare for Black Friday Shopping #1: Make a List

The first thing you need to do in order to prepare for Black Friday shopping is to make a list. You may think that you're only going for a few items, but once you get in the store, with all the madness, it's easy to forget everything you went in there for. Also a list helps you decide which stores are worth going to and which stores have the best prices.

How to Prepare for Black Friday Shopping #2: Decide Who's Buying What

Another way to prepare for Black Friday shopping is to decide who's going to each store. This really does help to ensure that you get the best price possible. That way, you can be at one store buying a laptop, while your partner is buying a TV at another store.

How to Prepare for Black Friday Shopping #3: Make a Shopping Plan

If you want to truly prepare for Black Friday shopping, it helps to scout out the stores you'll be shopping at. For example, Walmart usually has their Black Friday items out a few days before the sale actually takes place. Go through the store and get an idea of where the items will be placed. Then when the big day comes you'll be able to rush through and grab the items on your list.

How to Prepare for Black Friday Shopping #4: Get In Bed Early Or......

If you want to make sure you get to the Black Friday sales on time, be sure to go to bed early. Getting up at 4am on a cold November morning is never easy, especially if you stayed up late. Of course, there's always another option.

How to Prepare for Black Friday Shopping #5: Stay Up All Night

You can always stay up all night and then hit the Black Friday sales. This may actually be easier than trying to get up early. Get hopped up on caffeine and you'll be able to maneuver your way through the store faster than many people who got up at 4am. Just grab a few hours of sleep after your Thanksgiving dinner and you'll be able to get up around 12am or so.

How to Prepare for Black Friday Shopping #6: Eat a Large Breakfast

If you plan on hitting several stores, you will want to prepare for this by eating a large breakfast. A large breakfast will keep your energy up and keep you from having to stop in the middle of your shopping to grab a bite to eat.

How to Prepare for Black Friday Shopping #7: Dress Comfortably

Black Friday is not a time to wear high heels and look your best. It's a time to get your game face and game clothes on. If you want to prepare for a comfortable Black Friday shopping experience, put on a sweatshirt and some sweatpants. You'll be more comfortable and able to beat high heel wearing women to the last great deal.

How to Prepare for Black Friday Shopping #8: Arrive Before the Store Opens

One thing you must do in order to prepare for Black Friday shopping is to arrive before the store opens. This ensures that you'll have a better chance of getting some of the best deals. Remember, lines will form for certain items and if you're not there when the store opens you may miss out on that item.

How to Prepare for Black Friday Shopping #9: Get In Line ASAP

As soon as those doors open find the spot where the line begins, for laptops and other great deals, and stay there. Also be prepared to stand your ground. Some shoppers don't want to play fair and may try to jump in front of you.

How to Prepare for Black Friday Shopping #10: Get Home In Time to Shop Online

Last, but not least, plan to get home in time to take advantage of great online deals. Black Friday is no longer reserved for in store events. Many stores now have deals available on line as well.