While most people associate November with Thanksgiving, football and turkey comas, bargain hunters turn their focus to the Black Friday shopping deals to be had on the busiest shopping day of the season. On the day after Thanksgiving, savvy shoppers will be flocking to the stores looking for the best deals in hopes of finding just the right gifts for the whole family this Christmas.
It’s all about planning and knowing where to look for those Black Friday bargain basement prices when shopping for gifts for the family.
Look for ads and coupons
Time is of the essence on Black Friday, so check each retailer’s web site and buy the newspaper to look for gift options and search for coupons. Sign up for newsletters or email alerts from those stores that have a potential gift option from your list to monitor if the item goes on sale or is discounted further after your purchase.
Rise and shine
Start your Black Friday family expedition early, but don’t get there at the crack of dawn only to find the prices aren’t that great or that quantities are low. Peruse the stores’ web sites and buy the Thanksgiving Day newspaper to find out which items will be marked down for early shoppers. Then, get to the store when the doors open and head straight for the sale items. Try to resist the temptation to buy for yourself that day. Instead, reward yourself later when all the items are crossed off your gift list.
Plan your shopping route
After pinpointing the best shopping deals, make a list of the retailers you’ll be visiting, and map out the most efficient route to avoid driving in circles, wasting gas, and spending valuable shopping time in the car! Make sure to take into consideration the opening times of each store, to try to be among the first at the stores offering the Black Friday shopping deals that are most important to your family.
Shop online
If you prefer to avoid the crowded madness at the mall, shop online from the comfort of your own home. Stores like Amazon and Overstock which operate exclusively online might offer even better prices than brick-and-mortar stores. Many online retailers are expected to offer significant discounts or even free shipping on some items. Before confirming your online purchases, be sure to search for any promotional or coupon codes that you might be able to apply to your purchase.
All in one
If your gift list contains items that can all be found in one place, such as in a department store or large retailer like Target or Walmart, be sure to research the item to ensure the price isn’t significantly lower somewhere else. Many times, these retailers will match store ads and save you enormous amounts of time, energy and gas when you can purchase all your gifts under one roof.
Get your gear
Shopping can take a lot of energy, so be sure to pack snacks for the kids you may bring, as well as yourself. Stay hydrated by ensuring your water supply is plentiful and be sure to charge your cell phones. Comfortable shoes are a must-have when hitting the aisles this Black Friday.
Finally, stay safe when shopping for family deals this Black Friday by concealing purchases in your car and never losing site of your kids while in crowded stores.
Leave a Comment