Thursday, August 13, 2026

Frugal Jena: Black Friday Shopping Tips!

It seems like the deals start earlier each year.  Some of you are eager to get out there and save tons of money, yet others cringe at the thought of the crowds, and early mornings.  If you are one of the brave ones who is planning on venturing out to the sales this year, make sure you have a plan before hitting the stores. Here are a few tips on how to make the most out of the doorbusters this Friday.

  • Sleep-  Some sales start at midnight, others at 4am, and just about every time in between. Make sure you get enough rest to handle the fiasco that it Black Friday.
  • Make A List, Check It Twice-  Plan ahead on which items you are specifically looking to buy.  Check ads for those items and head for those items as soon as you walk through the door.
  • Bring a Buddy-  Make sure you bring a friend with you!  They can help you find items, hold your spot in line when you need to use the restroom, and give advice on the items you are thinking about purchasing.
  • The Early Bird Gets The Worm-  If you want the best deals and the most selection, get up early.
  • Leave The Credit Cards At Home-  When prices are slashed, it’s easy to charge items on your credit card.  Leave home with cash or a pre-paid gift card.  This will force you to have a budget.
  • Wear Light Layered Clothing-  Try wearing a tank top with a light jacket.  This will allow you to slip sweaters and T-shirts on and avoid the  fitting room.  Try to save shopping for clothes until the end of your day.  You will waste a lot of time trying things on.  You also may want to leave the bulky jacket at home – after all your arms are going to be full of shopping bags.
  • Check Online-  Some stores are offering better deals online than in-store.   Don’t forget about Cyber Monday!
  • Can’t Find Your Item?   If the item you are looking for is gone, you may be able to scan the QR code on the shelf on your phone and get free shipping to your home.  Ask the store associates if they are offering this new program.  They may also be offering rainchecks.

Happy Savings!  Let me know what deals you score on Friday!

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