Are you planning to join the masses on the biggest shopping day of the year? We’re here to help you live a better life ““ that includes helping you win Black Friday.
Whether you’re a newbie or a seasoned pro, we have eight tips you can use to conquer Black Friday:
1. Forget wearing “comfortable shoes” “” wear running shoes.
Your shoes will be your best friend Friday. They’ll support long-distance treks, endless hours waiting in line, sprints through the stores and hurdles ““ also known as your fellow shoppers. Leave the heels and boots at home ““ or you’ll end up crying under a clothing rack in no time.
2. You don’t need layers, just a better game plan.
A heavy coat keeps you warm while waiting in line outside, but it only takes up precious cart space you need for big TVs or Frozen toys. If you have to wait in line, assign a designated coat runner to stash the heavy outerwear in your car while you elbow your way into the store. Don’t forget to pick up items the coat runner needs or your coats could end up in a dumpster at the next stop.
3. Bring your hand sanitizer.
Other Black Friday shoppers ““ a.k.a. the enemy ““ are a hotbed of germs. Not only will they snatch the last iPad out of your hands, they’ll sneeze and cough all over you. A small bottle of hand sanitizer will keep your hands clean and is a great projectile to distract another shopper eyeing the sweater you clearly saw first.
4. Go to bed at 4 p.m.
Sales start at midnight for the wusses ““ we know you’re in line much sooner. If you want to get a full six to seven hours of sleep, you need to be in bed by 4 p.m. Serve dinner at 2 p.m., watch a little football then kick those guests to the curb so you can get some shut-eye.
5. Make your meal plan early Thursday.
Think like an athlete ““ you need protein, carbs and a little sweet stuff to keep you going Friday. When you’re done with Thanksgiving dinner, prepare your Black Friday “go bag” with a couple of granola bars, some trail mix and a few pieces of leftover Halloween candy. We know you still have your kids’ candy hidden in the freezer. Only Black Friday novices get “hangry” before 2 p.m.
6. Skip the morning shower.
Unless it’s a pre-requisite for you to fully wake up, shower before bed or skip the shower entirely. Those extra 20 minutes of sleep will be much more valuable than a shower ““ anyway, who wants to get too close to the smelly shopper? Smelling like stale turkey grease and old pumpkin pie could be the edge that helps you get the last item on your list.
7. Splurge on more than just your holiday list.
Even your food “go bag” will run out at some point, and you’ll need to refuel. Don’t feel guilty indulging on a soft pretzel, burrito or piece of pizza. You’re burning calories while running from store to store ““ besides holiday calories don’t count, right?
8. Have fun.
Whether you’re a lone wolf or shop in a pack, take some time to enjoy yourself Friday. It’s not every weekend that you get to eat decadent food one day then shop for friends and family the next. Think about how excited your loved ones will be when they open your presents this holiday season, and you’re sure to get your second wind.
If you’re going out this Black Friday, let us know how early you’re going to start and share your best shopping tips. We won’t be offended if you wait until Saturday to let us in on your Black Friday secrets!
