Believe it or not, it’s already that time of year again. Christmas is nearly around the corner, and Black Friday is approaching even more ferociously.  This can be a great day to score awesome deals and kick off the holiday shopping season.

“Black Friday is the official beginning of the Christmas season and when I start my Christmas shopping,” said Grossmont sophomore Dallus Lanz. “My favorite things to shop for are Christmas sweaters and sweet-smelling candles.”

If you are an annual Black Friday shopper like myself, you most likely have a strategic plan you stick to every year. But if it’s your first time this year, or if you’ve been burned on previous excursions, here’s a list of tips to help prep for your Black Friday shopping escapade.

Research, research, research.

Find out ahead of time which stores are having huge sales, and more importantly on what. Try to make a list of your favorite stores, items and malls, and prioritize which is offering the best. This way you can make it a one-stop shop, instead of venturing all over the place.

Plan ahead.

Shoppers need to figure out exactly what they want, where they can get it and how much they are willing to spend. That is key to getting in and getting out without a scratch or without getting overwhelmed.

First come, first serve.

Just know if you are looking to make a big purchase like a television or other electronics, there will be a huge line. So if you want that amazing deal, you’ll have to plan to get there as early as possible. You aren’t the only one looking to score big on Black Friday, so keep that in mind when you are choosing an appropriate time to leave.

Don’t be out for blood. 

If someone else grabs that fancy laptop or television first, let it go. It’s not worth getting hurt over. A lot of injuries, angry mobs and fights occur on Black Friday, so make sure you stay away from all that. It won’t be the end of the world, so don’t be vengeful when Black Friday shopping.

So have a happy deal day, and stay safe Grossmont