How to Navigate Black Friday and Cyber Monday

In recent years the Black Friday shopping experience has spiraled out of control. Many stores open their doors on Thanksgiving to get a jumpstart on their offerings. Shoppers line up in the cold weather, camping out to nab the best deal. Some aggressive deal-seekers even sustain injuries while in the midst of the shopping rush. Avoid this experience. Follow our tips to successfully navigate Black Friday and Cyber Monday shopping.

• Most importantly, do your research. Many shopping outlets advertise their Black Friday and Cyber Monday sales in advance in circulars or online. Only make time for the store(s) with the deals you need. Black Friday is not a time for casual shopping.
• Comparison shop. Before planning your shopping itinerary, compare product prices online on websites like PriceGrabber.com.
• Come up with a plan. Whether you intend to brave the Black Friday crowds or Cyber Monday deals, decide ahead of time when you will go to which store. Have a back-up plan in case there are unforeseen problems.
• Download the app. After checking the sales, download the app for your favorite retailer. Some stores offer special Black Friday and Cyber Monday promotions to app users.
• Take advantage of early sales. Many stores try to avoid the weekend rush and offer savings days or even weeks ahead of time.
• Be patient. Websites crash, people pay cashiers in exact change, children cry in line. Something frustrating is bound to happen. Don’t let annoyances get you down.