Just about everyone enjoys finding a bargain – whether it’s a ‘two for the price of one’ or ‘50% off’ deal, most of us can’t help ourselves and feel the need to splurge. With this love of a good discount, it’s no surprise that Black Friday has become a hugely popular day on the shopping calendar.
With tempting offers from many major retailers, it can be a great day to start and finish your Christmas shopping – but if you aren’t fully prepared and with all these deals catching your eye, things can become very overwhelming. To help you get ready for the upcoming sale, we offer some tips on how to survive Black Friday.
Make a shopping list and stick to it
It can be easy to get lost in the bargains and end up spending your monthly wage in the madness. But by creating a shopping list of exactly what you need[1] in a handy notebook and sticking to it, you can make sure to have an enjoyable day and (hopefully) get what you need. Check the deals online before you go and plan ahead; that way you can be sure you’ve located your best offers and can tick them off your shopping list accordingly.
Be prepared for the crowds
You will not be the only person looking to grab a bargain, so be ready for the crowds. Try some breathing exercises before you go and prepare yourself. It will most likely be busy, so it might be a good idea to leave the children with someone else at home while you shop[2].
Plan in breaks
When it comes to planning how you will spend the day, what shops you’ll hit and what bargains you’re looking for, be sure to plan in time for regular breaks. Having a sit down and a drink will keep you both relaxed and hydrated, as well as letting you plan your next move. Creating a map with your route outlined or a time plan using a day planner or post-it notes will keep you on track, and you will be able to see where the best places for a sit down are.
Have a Plan B
You might not be able to get your hands on everything you need come Black Friday. But don’t panic. Set yourself back-up items and back-up stores to visit so you can be sure you have a good chance of getting what you need.
Do your research online
Good deals can be found online in advance of Black Friday, so it’s worth spending some time scouring the web for ideas and bargains. If you don’t want to venture out and embrace the sales on foot, you could even do your shopping online on the day.
With some careful planning and preparation you can be sure to have a (mostly) stress-free day. Following the guide above will help you get ready and make sure you survive Black Friday.
