Black Friday is one of the most exciting shopping days of the year. Marked as the unofficial start of the Christmas shopping season, this is a chance for consumers to take advantage of some of the top deals out there. With the COVID-19 pandemic sure to play a role in how Black Friday unfolds this year, it is important for all shoppers to keep a few important points in mind.

1. Plan Ahead

First, it is critical for all you to plan as early as possible. Some are going to open early while others are going to remain closed. In addition to taking note of when open, it is also important to note whether these are going to have COVID-19 restrictions in place. Some might have a limit on the number of shoppers that can go inside at once, so shoppers need to plan to arrive even earlier if they want to go to a store with these restrictions in place. Of course, wear a mask at all times.

2. Do the Research Now

If there are certain items that you are targeting, write them down and do your research online. Figure out what a good price is and what type of deals might be available. Furthermore, make sure you know which brand you want. A bad product is always going to be a bad buy no matter how much it is discounted. Figure out which item you want, which brand you want, and what type of discount you are looking for.

3. Don’t Neglect Early Bird Discounts

With Black Friday becoming an unofficial holiday, many are offering early bird discounts. If you are willing to go shopping on Thanksgiving, you might be able to take advantage of even better deals. These might include phrases such as “doorbuster deals” or “midnight madness.” If the store is open on Thanksgiving, then there is a good chance that they are going to have some special deals for early bird shoppers.

 4. Plan the Shopping Day in a Way that Makes Sense, Geographically

Do not neglect the role that geography is going to play in your shopping day. There are lots of that are going to have great sales. In addition to looking at the opening hours, you should also brace yourself for traffic that is going to be worse than usual. Come up with a strategy that is going to result in the fewest number of hours in the car as possible. You want to spend your time shopping, not driving.

5. Bring the Physical Ads

If there is a deal that you want, including one that includes a “lowest price guarantee,” then bring the ads as proof. Some are going to require physical proof while other might promise to match the price of any competitor. When in doubt, bring the physical ad. You don’t want to be fumbling around on your phone with an angry, impatient crowd behind you.

Get Ready for Black Friday 2020

This Black Friday is going to be unlike any other, particularly with the pandemic. Therefore, prepare now and make sure you get the best deal possible.