How to Survive Black Friday (Without Losing Your Mind)

It’s that time of year again—the day when hordes of holiday shoppers line up in the wee hours, fueled by coffee and visions of discounts, ready to grab the biggest deals of the year. Black Friday is both a thrilling experience and, let’s be honest, a bit of a circus.

Whether you’re a seasoned shopper or just dipping your toes into the mayhem, having a solid game plan is key to making it through the day without feeling like you need a vacation (or a nap) by the end of it. Here’s a lighthearted look at some strategies that can help you conquer Black Friday with sanity (and shopping bags) intact.

Start with a Plan

When it comes to Black Friday, spontaneity is not your friend. The best way to win on Black Friday is to have a plan, preferably one that’s mapped out like a mission to outer space. Start by making a list of what you’re after. You might be thinking, “I just want to browse,” but trust me, wandering aimlessly through aisles on Black Friday is a dangerous game.

Chances are you’ll end up either buying things you don’t need or feeling frustrated by the endless crowds. Instead, make a list of must-haves, nice-to-haves, and things you absolutely will not buy even if they’re marked down 90% (there are only so many popcorn makers and electric wine openers one can use).

Once you have your list, spend some time online checking out which stores have the best deals for each item. Many retailers publish their Black Friday discounts ahead of time, so with a bit of homework, you can figure out which stops will be worth it. This will also help you avoid “shiny object syndrome” when you’re in the store since you’ll know what’s truly worth your time and money.

Get in and Get Out Early

Early birds really do get the worm—or, in this case, the doorbuster deals. Most Black Friday sales start at the crack of dawn, if not earlier, and the hardcore shoppers know this. The earlier you arrive, the better chance you have at scoring those high-demand items before they disappear.

Now, getting up early may not be everyone’s cup of tea, but if you’re serious about snagging a big-ticket item like a TV or game console, it’s a price you have to pay. And if you’re really dedicated, consider a pre-shopping ritual of caffeine, protein-packed breakfast, and maybe a pre-game stretch (shopping carts can double as your Black Friday cardio, after all).

If the early wake-up isn’t for you, there’s another option: go at the end of the day. Sure, you might miss out on some items, but by late afternoon, the crowds have usually thinned, and you can shop at a more leisurely pace without elbowing anyone out of the way. Plus, some stores restock during the day, so there’s a chance you’ll still find those sought-after deals.

Bring a Buddy (Or Form a Team)

Black Friday is a team sport, and sometimes it takes a village to get everything on the list. Bringing a friend or family member with you not only makes the day more fun, but it also allows you to divide and conquer. You can each head to different sections of the store, scout out the best deals, and snag those coveted items faster than you could alone. Just make sure your shopping buddy has a similar level of dedication—no one wants to babysit a Black Friday rookie who isn’t willing to elbow their way to a discounted air fryer.

If you’re going with a small group, assign each person a specific mission. Have one friend go to electronics, another to home goods, and someone else to clothing or toys. Text each other with updates, and meet at the cash register. As a bonus, many stores offer shopping carts with a storage space underneath where you can hide your hauls until you’re ready to check out. Just remember to check in with your team occasionally, and maybe have a safe word in case anyone gets lost in the crowd.

Dress for Success (And Comfort)

Black Friday is not the day for a fashion show. You need to dress like you’re going into battle—which, in a way, you are. Wear comfortable shoes, ideally ones you don’t mind standing in for hours or running around aisles with. A cozy, breathable outfit with lots of layers is key because stores tend to crank up the heat when they’re packed with shoppers, and you’ll probably be moving around a lot. Leave the heavy coat in the car so you don’t have to lug it around, and keep things practical. Pockets are also a plus, especially if you want to avoid fumbling for your phone or wallet every five seconds.

Some seasoned Black Friday shoppers even have special outfits, like workout leggings with plenty of stretch or shoes that provide maximum agility for darting in and out of crowded aisles. If you’re really committed, consider a crossbody bag or fanny pack so your hands are free for grabbing those must-have items. It’s all about being prepared to move quickly and comfortably, without sacrificing any arm space for your shopping bags.

Prepare for a Few Battles

Black Friday is not for the faint of heart. This is the day when even the calmest shoppers turn into warriors, and those sale aisles become battlegrounds. Go into the day knowing that there will be shoving, bumping, and maybe even a few pointed looks. But hey, all’s fair in love, war, and Black Friday shopping. Just remember to keep your cool, even when things get chaotic.

That said, don’t be afraid to stand your ground if someone tries to swoop in and snatch that last $20 blender out of your hands. If you get pushed around, just take a deep breath, hold your position, and remember: no deal is worth losing your dignity (or getting tackled over). Sometimes, you have to let things go and focus on the big picture—there are plenty of deals to go around, even if you don’t end up with every item on your list.

Don’t Forget the Snacks and Hydration

Shopping on Black Friday is basically an endurance event, so bring fuel! A granola bar, some trail mix, and a bottle of water can go a long way in keeping you energized and ready to take on those deals. You’ll want something you can eat on the go, and staying hydrated is key to keeping you focused. A little planning goes a long way, and you’ll be grateful when you don’t have to brave the food court or waste precious shopping time waiting in line for a snack.

If you’re going with friends, consider stashing some celebratory snacks in the car for after the shopping spree is over. Think of it as your victory meal for making it through the crowds. You’ll be able to decompress, show off your finds, and recap the day’s adventures before heading home.

Be Mindful of Your Budget

Let’s face it—Black Friday can be a real money pit if you’re not careful. Those big red sale tags have a way of luring us into buying things we don’t need (hello, discounted waffle maker). Make sure to go into Black Friday with a set budget, and try to stick to it. Decide in advance how much you’re willing to spend, and if it helps, bring cash instead of a credit card to avoid the temptation of overspending.

It’s easy to get swept up in the thrill of a good deal, but remember that even the most heavily discounted item is only worth it if you actually use it. Don’t buy something just because it’s a bargain—save your money for things you truly want or need. At the end of the day, no deal is worth stressing over a ballooning credit card bill.

Remember to Have Fun

It’s easy to get caught up in the madness of Black Friday and forget to enjoy the experience. Remember that, in the end, it’s just shopping, and it’s meant to be fun. Whether you’re there for the thrill of the hunt or just looking to snag a few holiday gifts, try to find the humor in the chaos. Laugh at the silly moments, be patient with other shoppers, and don’t take things too seriously.

After all, Black Friday is a uniquely American experience, and it only comes once a year. So, take a deep breath, embrace the craziness, and give yourself a pat on the back for surviving another round of holiday shopping. You made it through the crowds, the lines, and maybe even a few minor skirmishes—all in the name of deals. Now that’s dedication.