The ultimate Black Friday survival guide

Black Friday sales have been taking place in the US for the past 84 years.

South African companies joined the hype several years ago - much to the delight of locals trying to get some great deals before the festive season.

But let’s get real, Black Friday sales, which take place the day after Thanksgiving, often lead to chaos at stores.

People have been trampled in the madness, while some crazy shoppers have duked it out over 85% off kitchenware and other home appliances.

If you want to make it through your Black Friday shopping in one piece, here are a few suggestions.

Wear comfortable shoes

Black Friday usually involves a lot of running from aisle to aisle as you desperately try to get all the items you need. It might even require you jumping over a few sad souls who have fallen to the ground in the mad rush. Look, this is one time common courtesy goes out the window. Think of it as the Olympics of shopping!

Plan ahead

Showing up for a Black Friday sale without a plan of action is a major no-no. You need to know what time the store opens, which aisle your desired products are in, and the closet emergency exist – just in case! Get yourself clued up on all the items on sale, and make a list. Fail to plan, and expect some major disappointment. Don’t forget to get a good night’s rest. You are going to need it!

Team effort

If you are serious about getting those Black Friday deals, then you need a partner in crime. While you tackle the home appliances, your sidekick does some serious damage in the toys aisle.

Hold on for dear life

Some people seem to lose all their senses when major savings are involved. There have been cases in America of people getting punched in the face, and getting involved in a tug-of-war over a plasma screen. Talk about first world problems! Be prepared to stand your ground, and practice your ‘mean muggin’ face if need be.

Waiting in line

The most boring part of the entire Black Friday sale is queuing up with all your goodies. But don’t be fooled, drama is always close by. Make sure you keep a close eye on the person standing in front of you. Any small gap is an opportunity for a sneaky shopper to queue hop. But don’t get too close to people, to the point that you are practically breathing down their neck. Try to stay calm, as the last thing you want is to get involved in an argument with an agitated shopper. You are almost at the finish line! If your legs get sore, try shifting your weight form one leg to another, or sitting down on the floor. Trust me, it is going to be a long wait!

What to pack

Pack some water and an energy bar (make sure you check them in at the door) in your bag. After all that running around, you will need to fuel up, and get hydrated. But don’t drink too much water, the last thing you want to do is leave the queue because you need the loo. We would say pack a helmet as well, but that may just get you trending on social media for all the wrong reasons.

Leave the kids at home

This needs no explanation. Do you really want to be hunting down all your deals with a baby on your hip, or a screaming toddler? No, ma’am.

Online shopping

If you really do not want to be part of the madness, but still want to get in on the deal action, shopping online is your best bet. A number of companies have online Black Friday sales. Some sites are known to experience crashes, so you will need some patience. You might not be able to get some of the major deals like at some stores, but there is sure to be something you like and/or need. If not, at least you will still have your dignity intact.