Black Friday Shopping: How to Strategize and Save Money

Black Friday Shopping, any serious shopping endeavors actually, require planning if you want to be sure not to miss anything or not to overspend. There’s an art to Black Friday Shopping. It’s like a dance that, when done right, can leave you exhilarated.

My Best Shopping Record

Just so that you know how serious I am with this stuff and to perhaps give me some credit as to my skills. Back in the day when Black Friday was truly a sport (you know, ya got up stupid early, lined up outside the stores with hundreds of people then rushed through to hope that you got to that one thing that you really wanted before they sold out) here’s what we managed:

A Team of Three managed to get a Nintendo Gamecube (it was the hot item that year), three bicycles, a new tree and some kitchen gadgets all purchased and loaded back in the van in less than 15 minutes. Yes, there was a line when we got there and we had to wait for the time when they uncovered and were willing to sell the items…

So, yeah, that’s my best time. I’d love to hear about your shopping successes!

Don’t Skip The Strategy!

1. Make Your Budget: Your budget will keep you from overspending and from spending more on one child than the other. It will also help you not go in debt. If you are like me and get suckered in, try taking only cash. That way, you have no choice but to stay in budget. If that doesn’t work for you, then give yourself a rule: if you make it home with things not on the list, you must return them and get money back without spending any additional money. That trick has taught me a valuable lesson and I no longer give into temptation so easily!
2. Search the Sale Ads. If you are searching online, make notes when you see something you intend to buy and what the cost is. It may be better in a promotion elsewhere. You can also get some awesome coupons here. We’ve also got some fantastic online shopping tips you may want to check out!
3. Make Some Lists
   • Who are you buying for and what do they like, what sizes do they wear, etc. This doesn’t have to be detailed but it helps so that you don’t end up buying something that is the wrong size or completely outside of their likes. It’s easy to mix up which person likes what when you are in store.
   • What do you plan on buying? Are there any particular items that you absolutely must have?
   • Where do you want to go? Who has the best sales?
4. Time to Strategize: Now that you have all of the information you need, it’s time to make a plan!
   • Where to Go First: Sometimes, sales start at different times or perhaps an item on your list is in demand so you want to go there first. Knowing which stores to go to first and what time you need to be there is vital. Don’t expect to be out in 10 minutes, but when you do get there stick to that list! Only get what you went there for! Don’t get suckered into the impulse buys at the register lines. Trust me, you don’t actually want or need those and they are most likely not the best deal anyway!
   • Pack snacks! This will help you resist buying the $3 bag of chips that should honestly cost way less, or the overpriced soda. Plus, you’ll likely end up blowing your (caloric and monetary) budget.
   • Fill up your tank! Don’t wait until it’s time to go, you aren’t going to get up any earlier. Get the tank filled up early, you’ll be glad you did!