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Your Black Friday guide

Scour ads before you leave, use the buddy system and keep  your money close.

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By Jessica Heffner, Staff Writer Updated 3:02 PM Friday, November 27, 2009

If you’re one of the avid shoppers planning to break out the tent in anticipation of Black Friday deals, make sure you go with a plan before you go out into the cold.

Study the ads and any exclusions before going out. Many stores have a limit on doorbusters, some as few as two per store. Check to see if the item is available online before deciding to wait in line in the wee hours.

Stephanie Ross of Middletown, after 20 years of scoring day-after-Thanksgiving deals, suggests that you use the buddy system.

“Sometimes it’s my husband and sometimes it’s a friend, but I always have someone to watch my back,” she said. “One gets the cart and stays with the cart to make sure no one steals our stuff, and one worms their way through the crowd.”

Ross said she also has her buddy carry the money so she can move unhampered through the store and not worry about pickpockets.

“Fanny packs are back on Black Friday. Keep your money close and preferably underneath your coat,” she said.

Bring the ads with you. Stores like Target, Sears, Lowe’s, Home Depot and Walmart will match a competitor’s advertised price. This can help you save time by going to fewer stores.

Also, plan out your meals. Restaurants with drive-throughs will be packed, so plan ahead by bringing a meal or allotting time to make a stop.

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