Black Friday – a day famous for long lines, scary stampedes and even pepper spray – can be stressful. But with a bit of preparation, you can get great deals without the headache.
You know the drill. Wake up. Get into your battle clothes. Arm yourself with credit cards, coffee, and a shopping list. And then brace yourself for the Black Friday shopping crowds.
Oh, and good luck finding a parking spot!
If shopping on Black Friday is too hard to resist because of the bargains, here are a few ways to stay sane this Friday and throughout the rest of the holiday shopping season:
Avoid shopping during peak hours.
Why fight the crazies elbowing each other out for the super flat TV screen sale? You can still get great bargains by shopping at off-hours such as mid-morning or even dinner-time.
Ask for an escort to your car.
Stores are eager to please so they can get your return business. If you’re weighed down with bags, why not ask for a little extra help? And if you’re shopping at odd hours, the less crowded parking lots can feel kinda creepy, especially when it’s dark out. Even if you’re not weighed down with bags, you’ll feel safer asking for an escort.
Join forces with other moms.
We all know that kids plus shopping equals stress. Why risk losing them or losing your mind! Make a pact with one or two mom friends that you’ll take turns watching each other’s kids so that you each have a chance to shop solo.
Download a spending app.
Overspending can be super stressful. It will be far less easy to overspend if you see exactly what you’re buying by tracking purchases with an app. It’s also a good idea to have a written list of what you need, so you’ll stay on budget.
Don’t “mall eat.”
Grabbing a gooey pretzel or gigantic cookies because we’re in “combat” and deserve it will only cause you to become more irritable later when the carbs and sugar wear off. Eat before you shop and treat yourself to a coffee or a healthy juice.
Let your fingers do some of the shopping.
Online stores are open 24/7, plus you get to skip the crowds, long checkout lines, and desperate searches for a parking spot.
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