Surviving Black Friday

As early as the deals start now, is it really even called “Black Friday” any more? Black Friday use to be the day when retailers could get into the “black” with more shoppers looking for more deals than any other time of the year. But, it didn’t take long for retailers to figure out the shopping frenzy could be stretched through weekend and then the week before Thanksgiving. This year, retailers are even open on Thanksgiving. Best Buy and Wal-Mart are both opening as early as 6pm on Thanksgiving Day. Macy’s, Kohl’s, Sears, JC Penney and Target open at 8pm. So if you want to dive in, what’s the best strategy for making the most of this shopping extravaganza?

Think about your route

Have a travel plan. Plan a route that takes you to the places you want to go in the most efficient manner saving you time and gas. This will also keep you from getting distracted by other deals that may tempt you along the way. Read the papers and check out the web pages for your favorite retailers. Find out where the deals are for the products you want and go there. Try comparison shopping on line so you know you’ve got the best deal without all the driving around.

Check out websites

There are Black Friday specific sites and retailers have their own sites posting the best deals of the day. Some may be internet exclusive meaning you don’t even have to leave the house! A lot of the online deals can be downloaded onto your smart phone using an app like ShopSavvy.

You could stay home and still get the deals

You could spend the same amount of time in the comfort of your own home, in your pajamas, and at your computer. Amazon is featuring deals all week. Many other retailers are featuring one day specials on Thanksgiving. Don’t forget CyberMonday – historically, the Monday after Black Friday is a huge deal day on the internet.

Think twice about going at all

Just because everyone else is doing it doesn’t mean you have to. Think about the savings. If you could save $20 but it demands that you drive for hours and circle a parking lot looking for a space while your blood pressure escalates….. don’t do it. The holidays are a break from work and a time for relaxation and spending time for family. This holiday in particular asks that we be thankful for our blessings. If shopping in Black Friday madness is not your way to celebrate, then pass.

Source: NBC5 Dallas-Ft. Worth