How to Prepare for Black Friday and Cyber Monday Shopping For consumers looking for the absolute best deals, combining Black Friday and Cyber Monday shopping offers you a full spectrum of merchandise availability and convenience. Start preparing as soon as possible so that you don't let all those great opportunities pass you by. Whether you're shopping for large appliances or birthstone jewelry, you're likely to find it on these days cheaper than any other time of year. Preparing for Black Friday Shopping Almost all retailers participate in Black Friday specials, because it kicks off the holiday shopping season that accounts for a sizeable chunk of their annual earnings. As soon as those Black Friday ads and online announcements make the rounds, it's time to begin your preparations. Make a List -- Lists serve two purposes: a list makes sure you don't forget anything you need to buy, but also keeps you from getting sidetracked shopping for things you didn't plan to buy. Impulse buys can really wreck your Black Friday budget. Compare Stores -- Say you're looking for a men's ring. Don't assume that a large department store is your best bet. These items are often offered in better selections and prices at a specialty store. Decide which item you'll purchase at which store before you head out. Read the Ads (and the Fine Print) -- Make sure you understand each company's Black Friday policies before you start shopping. Some may use a ticket system, where you have to arrive and request a ticket at a certain place before shopping. Stores may also have maximum purchases (one per customer), or particular refund and exchange policies you need to be aware of. Make Yourself Comfortable -- Black Friday is a stressful shopping day, so be sure to wear extra comfy clothing, especially shoes. Tuck a few snacks and some water in a bag so you don't have to fight throngs of crowds at the food court when you get hungry. Dress in layers so you can ward off the chill waiting outside for doors to open, and peel off layers during the day as it gets warmer. Don't try to do Black Friday on your own! Take a companion along so you can take turns holding each other's place in line, carrying bags, and watching merchandise for bathroom breaks. Preparing for Cyber Monday Shopping About 85 percent of retailers are holding Cyber Monday sales now, so there will be no shortage of opportunities to shop. Cyber Monday is the best way to shop for expensive merchandise like Alaska Jewelry's gold nuggets because you won't have to worry about carrying these valuable items around town all day, where it's too easy to get something snatched. Here's how to get ready:
Do Your Research -- Find the best deals, but also compare things besides price, such as shipping charges, how long it will take to get your order, and return policies. Start your research as soon as stores begin releasing Cyber Monday deals. Make a List -- Using a list for Cyber Monday shopping is just as important as a list on Black Friday, for the same reasons. You don't forget anything, and it keeps you within budget. Have a Backup Plan -- In the past, many stores have been unprepared for the sheer numbers of Cyber Monday shoppers. Merchandise sold out too quickly, and some orders didn't arrive in time for Christmas. Though stores claim to be better prepared this year, make a backup plan just in case merchandise sells out quickly or there are delivery problems. With the proper planning, you can sail through Black Friday and Cyber Monday without a hitch.