Even though Black Friday is still three weeks away, retailers are already building anticipation for the big shopping event. Just recently, Sears announced it will open at 8:00 PM on Thanksgiving and stay open for 26 hours straight. Kohl’s, on the other hand, will reveal its Black Friday deals on Wednesday, November 21, so shoppers can gear up for the midnight openings on Thanksgiving.
Many folks are eagerly looking forward to the Black Friday frenzy, excited to snag the best deals of the season. But it’s important to realize that scoring great deals takes more than just standing in long lines. A bit of planning and prep work can give you an edge over other shoppers. Here are 10 steps to craft a solid shopping plan for Black Friday:
1. Set up a new email account. This keeps all your Black Friday receipts, alerts, and notifications separate from your main inbox, so it stays clutter-free.
2. Sign up for updates from retailers. Newsletters from your favorite stores will give you the scoop on Black Friday schedules, special deals, and other useful info. Following your favorite brands on social media can also provide real-time updates and exclusive promo codes.
3. Buy discounted gift cards. One way to save more is by using gift cards purchased at a discount. Websites like GiftCardGranny.com sell gift cards below their face value for major stores, helping you save more than 10% on average.
4. Sell some stuff. Get extra cash for your holiday budget by selling unwanted items online or at consignment shops.
5. Set a realistic budget. After considering your financial situation, including travel and holiday expenses, create a budget for your gift shopping. These tips from LearnVest, including a holiday budget calculator, can help.
6. Make a list and research prices. With your budget in place, list out the gifts you want to buy and spend some time comparing prices. Knowing the usual prices of products before Black Friday helps you avoid misleading deals.
7. Get your mobile device ready. Download the latest shopping apps for in-store savings. Use apps like Coupon Sherpa for instant mobile coupons, CardStar to store all your loyalty cards, and RedLaser for price comparisons.
8. Choose the right credit card. If you’re comfortable using credit cards, check if your card offers any holiday promotions or additional rewards for gift-buying. If not, consider applying for one that does, so you can earn points on your purchases.
9. Adjust your Thanksgiving dinner plans. If you plan to head out for Black Friday shopping, let your guests know Thanksgiving dinner will be served earlier. This way, you can spend quality time with family without having to rush.
10. Team up with family and friends. Coordinate your plans with potential shopping buddies. Shopping in pairs or groups can make the experience more fun and efficient, as you can split up your shopping lists. Creating Facebook groups can help people find shopping partners and arrange shared travel.
With these steps, you can ensure that your Black Friday shopping is not only successful but also enjoyable.