The Friday after Thanksgiving has gone down in history as the biggest and busiest time of year for our nation’s retailers. Last year, 212 million people hit the pavement and spent an estimated $45 billion dollars during black Friday! Be smart this year and take these Black Friday tips into consideration before you venture into the mayhem…

1. Make a list – Electronics are the biggest deals during this shopping holiday, and stores like to distract you with other shiny new things to spend money on. Don’t give in! Make a list of what you want and stick to that list.
2.  Set a Budget
3. Do your Research – Make sure you are getting the best deal by looking around online or in newspapers for the lowest prices.
4. Sign up for email alerts – Retailers will be able to keep you up to date with the latest and hottest items in stock, as well as send you coupons and other promotional material throughout the season.
5. Check Return Policies
6. Know the Early Bird Special – though waking up at 3 in the morning is so much fun… It may be in your best interest to look into the benefits of being the first in line at the door.
7. Divide and conquer – break the family up into teams to stand in long lines while others get the items that you came for
8. Wear comfy clothes – Black Friday is not a fashion contest, so dress in your most comfortable clothes because you are going to be there a long time.
9. Bring food – rations will be short during your endeavor, so prepare ahead! Bring snacks and other food items to keep you going throughout the event.
10. Have Fun!!