by JQ Adams

Created on: February 12, 2009

It is almost hard to believe Thanksgiving is almost upon us and Christmas is right around the corner. While both holidays bring immediate images of families and friends gathering together to celebrate, they can also bring serious concerns about finances, especially when it comes to holiday shopping bills.

Black Friday occurs the day after Thanksgiving where department stores and malls open at ungodly early hours of the morning, promising bargains galore and chaos in the aisles. Some people thrive on the annual tradition and can not wait to hit the stores before the sun comes up. Because the stores are so busy on Black Friday and shoppers are frantic to find and take home all of the deals they can, there can be a strong tendency to overspend and not pay any attention to the amount of money being put out. The best way to deal with the craziness of a Black Friday shopping spree is to be prepared.

Here are some tips for preparing for the Black Friday rush:

Create a Shopping List

While there may be some instances where a deal comes along that is too good to pass up, it is important you start with a good idea of what you need to buy and how much you need to spend for the holidays on each person. You shouldn't hit the mall without first understanding your spending limits. With all of the craziness of the Black Friday shopping festivities, it can be entirely too easy to pick up impulse buys at every turn.

Seek Out the Bargains Ahead of Time

Most of the ads will be available on Thanksgiving Day. However, many stores will start advertising the upcoming Black Friday specials prior to the holiday. You can also browse online at sites like Black Friday that gives a sneak peek at the special sales. Take notes as to what places you need to shop and what items you are looking for in each store.

Price Check

Just because there is a good price in one store, doesn't mean there isn't a better price in another. Check around for the best prices and don't forget to find out which stores are offering the best deals and during what time period.

Bring Your Sales Fliers

Some stores will accept competitor's pricing for the same merchandise. It may be worth it to toss your sales circulars into your purse in case you find something you need at one store and find that another store has better pricing. It can save you a ton of travel and shopping time.

Shop Online

Beat the crowds completely and don't leave your home. Online shopping websites will also offer Black Friday deals, much like their chain store counterparts. The good news is there are no battles in the aisles over merchandise, no long lines to stand in. and you are more likely to buy only what it is you are looking to buy for the holidays.

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