Girl Next Door / November 2011 / Black Friday Survival Guide: Part II- Getting Out There

Nov 24, 201110:20 PMGirl Next Door

Black Friday Survival Guide: Part II- Getting Out There

 

So, you're read my tips in my last post on preparing for Black Friday sales. You're prepared for an early night. You have a list of what you want and who you're taking. You're perfectly okay with the prospect of a black eye, sprained ankle and tugged hair. You have a plan for where you're heading to, and your alarm is set. You're all ready to face the sales.

Now like I said in my last post, don't rule out staying at home and online shopping. However, I will still advise you to get up early, and obviously the selection may not be as varied, but it will allow you to shop in your pajamas and go back to bed afterwards, and avoid hours sitting in traffic to get to the mall 5 minutes from your house. There is no shame in online sale shopping. And there are also no elbows in your face. Bonus. But if you're determined to face the sales in person, here are my last-minute tips (which I think you should print out and bring with you!)

 

1. Double-check the sales before you leave

   Last year I went with my friend and her fiancé to Walmart, as they wanted a new TV. They did manage to get a few things they needed, but it turned out that the TVs didn't go on sale until the Saturday morning, so just check before you leave.

2. Give yourself plenty of time

   Traffic will be crazy, even at mightnight/4am. Give yourself lots of time to get there. The early bird gets the discount.

3. Dress appropriately

   This is only time I will advise you to put comfort first. Comfy pants or a skirt you can easily get off, good underwear and flats shoes are always a good idea. Lines for changing rooms are likely to be huge, so if you can slip layers off and try things on over, this is a bonus. Bring a pair of heels with you if you're looking at evening dresses or anything else you'd want to wear heels with, so you can check what it looks like.

4. Bring snacks and water

   And take regular breaks. It's gonna be a long day.

5. Shop in places you wouldn't ordinarily go to

   A $10 dress in Forever 21 isn't really a bargain, but a $10 dress in Macy's is. Black Friday is a great chance to shop in places that are normally a little out of your price range so you can really take advantage of the discounts.

6. Grab and then think

   If you're not sure about something, grab it anyway! You won't get a second chance.

7. Ask yourself the following questions...

   Do I need this? Will I wear it? Am I buying it just because it's cheap? Would I like it if it was full price? How long will I wear it for- eg. Is it on trend now, or will it last? Is it worth the price?

8. Check the returns policy

   If you're still unsure, check the returns policy. Some shops have different policies when it comes to sales so you might not be able to return items as usual if you change your mind.

9. Stay safe

   And by this, I mean avoid being elbowed in the face, and also keep your purse safe. Crowded areas are perfect for theives and you don't want to get to the counter and find your wallet has been stolen!

10. Have fun!

    This is the best advice I can give you. This should be fun, not a horrible experience. If you stop enjoying it, then stop. It's just shopping. And if you come home with nothing, then don't worry! It's better to come home with nothing than $300 of things you don't like. And plus, if you come home with nothing you can still hit the online sales!