12 Steps to Surviving Black Friday Sale Shopping

A Dozen Strategies for Crowded Holiday Shoppers

More than 172 million shoppers visited stores and websites over Thanksgiving weekend last year. Despite the current challenging economy, market projection experts expect Black Friday sales to draw huge numbers of consumers to stores and shopping malls this year as well.

What savvy survival techniques can folks employ to make it through this crowded holiday shopping weekend?

Make a List for Black Friday Shopping.

Santa makes his famous list each year, and Black Friday shoppers should too.

Retailers use television, radio, newspaper, direct mail, email and internet advertisements to announce Black Friday sales specials. Stores may slash prices on certain specific items, or they may offer percent-off sales across the board.

Shoppers may be tempted to purchase extra items because of advertising and product displays. However, the smartest Black Friday shoppers will make shopping lists before heading to the stores. What's more, these savvy consumers will stick to their lists.

Do the Homework Before Black Friday Shopping.

Black Friday shopping veterans know the value of doing some comparison shopping ahead of time, researching prices (in advertisements or online) on specific products they plan to purchase.

Websites like BizRate.com, EasyPriceTracker.com, MySimon,com, PriceGrabber.com, Shop.com, StreetPrices.com offer quick and easy online price comparisons for shoppers.

By finding the best prices before shopping on Black Friday, smart consumers can map out their Black Friday shopping trips with confidence and money-saving strategy.

Pick a Partner to Go Black Friday Shopping.

Black Friday shopping is hectic and intense, so smart shoppers often band together for the trip. By browsing with a trusted family member or friend, a Black Friday shopper can enjoy good company and helpful counsel. A shopping ally can be a helpful guard against impulse buying, as well as a practical assistant for holding purses and possessions when needed. Plus, shopping together is simply much more enjoyable.

Sleep Well Before Black Friday Shopping.