10 Last-Minute Strategies for Mastering Black Friday Shopping

Black Friday is almost here, and many big stores are starting the sales frenzy on Thanksgiving Day. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or new to the Black Friday scene, check out these 10 last-minute tips to gear up for the biggest shopping day of the year.

1. Check out flyers and make a game plan. Keep an eye on your inbox, mailbox, and online updates for the latest store ads and exclusive Black Friday deals. Plan your shopping route to hit your top deals first, and remember your local mall might have great discounts close by.

2. Stick to your shopping list. It’s easy to get distracted by all the deals, but try to stick to your holiday gift list to stay on budget. Last year, Black Friday sales hit $52.4 billion, up 16% from the year before. Keep impulse buys in check to avoid overspending.

3. Keep your phone charged. You don’t want to be stuck in a line without something to do. Make sure your phone is charged and loaded with useful apps like Coupon Sherpa for extra discounts, RedLaser for price checks, and Decide to time your purchases right.

4. Fill up your gas tank in advance. You don’t want to waste valuable shopping time at the gas station and risk missing out on deals. Carpool with friends to save gas and make it easier to coordinate your shopping adventures.

5. Have your wallet ready. Whether you prefer cash or credit, make sure your payment method is easy to access. Designate a spot in your wallet or purse for receipts, which might be needed for returns or price adjustments, or use the OneReceipt app to keep track of everything digitally.

6. Use reward cards. If you have a credit card with reward points, use it for your holiday shopping to rack up points you can later redeem for gift cards. It’s a smart way to save.

7. Team up with a friend and dress in layers. Shopping with a buddy allows you to split your lists and cover more ground quickly. Dress in layers so you’re comfortable both outside in lines and inside stores.

8. Stay hydrated and bring snacks. Waiting is part of the Black Friday experience, so pack some snacks and water to avoid unnecessary trips to food stalls or fast-food places.

9. Avoid the crowds if you’d rather shop online. If you love deals but hate lines, stay home and shop online. Many retailers have the same Black Friday discounts on their websites, and stores like Sears and Sam’s Club even offer early online doorbusters.

10. Consider shopping later. Black Friday isn’t the only time for good deals. You can wait until Free Shipping Day on Monday, Dec. 17, when many retailers offer great discounts with free shipping and guaranteed delivery before Christmas.