Money Saving Tips for Black Friday Shopping

This season, Thanksgiving and Black Friday are predicted to be huge days for discounts and holiday sales, with retailers like Macy’s and JC Penney opening their doors earlier than ever before to get in on the shopping action.

Patrice C. Washington, the Money Maven of the Steve Harvey Morning Show, explains that those looking to save on their holiday shopping should do the following:

1. Set your Spending Budget: Sale or not, if you don’t have the money to shop, then don’t shop! Remember, rent and a host of other bills are due the following Monday, December 1st.
2. Make a Gift List: Write down everyone you plan on buying a gift for, a few options for what you’d like to buy them and the price range you are willing to spend. This will help prevent impulse purchases that can set you over your budget.
3. Do Your Homework: Do your research and see if the savings will really be worth the long lines and possible trampling. Be aware of the fact that some retailers have been raising prices over the last few weeks in order to make the “markdown” during Black Friday look like a great deal.
4. Take Advertisements With You: If there’s a video game console or kitchen appliance that has been advertised at a certain price, make sure to bring a hardcopy of the advertisement. Some stores are willing to price match competitors which can save additional trips.
5. Take a Friend: Let’s say you have a few friends who are brave enough to battle Black Friday with you. Instead of waiting at the same store together, divide and conquer. Separate and share your wish list with a friend to get holiday shopping finished in a timely fashion.