Black Friday Shopping on a budget

If you are a budget hunter like me you are itching for Black Friday to get here soon. Now I would not call myself a pro at this whatsoever, for two reasons. I have only participated in it seriously for the past 2-3 years and a good shopper gets better every year!

I know there are some that drop $1000+ on this yearly shopping event. Don't believe me? Ask some ladies or listen to some surrounding conversations during a dinner out after shopping. You will hear some amazing numbers. Not only am I unable to spend this much financially but to me it defeats the purpose of getting up early to get a good deal on items if you are just going to break the bank anyway. So far I have not spent more than $300 on this exciting shopping day. This is mostly because I have not bought any big ticket items like appliances and jewelry etc. Usually I am after toys and clothing for my family.

When you have decided to participate in the crazy shopping extravaganza be sure to make a list. Not just your average list but a good strategic list. It is best to first evaluate what items you and your family need most such as essentials and then assess what can be gifts for them and others. This way you take care of the needed items in a frugal way and still have left over for the good gifts! Next you will want to scour the ads. YES! the BLACK FRIDAY ADS!!! To find out when they will be available join the mailing list at www.blackfridayonline.com and www.black-friday.net. They will notify you when your stores black Friday ads come out.

After your list is made and you have looked over your ads to decide in which store to go first and when they open, you next have to decide on how early to get up. I will take a shower the night before and put on some comfy clothes and sneakers and get going really early like 3 or 4am. This way you can be in line early and get the items before they run out. Most items that are priced best are in limited quantities. They are usually advertised mostly to get you into the store. Only the serious shoppers will actually get one of the exclusive item. Make sure you know each store's system. For example Walmart will have only one entrance open and give you a map of the store at the door. This map is essential to what you are looking for. They will have flats out all around the store and on the map is what each item is. You cannot touch or unveil the items until it is time. At 5am the store employees will uncover and you can purchase these items. I also advise against using a shopping cart. This will reduce your chances of getting through the crowds to the items you are looking for. So if you can carry your items leave the cart behind. You will be glad you did.