Top Tips For Surviving Black Friday

•    Check Out Your Coffee Scene.  If your first stop is in the mall, and your mall has a coffee place, you’re set.  Most malls require all stores to open at the same time, so if Macy’s is open at 4AM, Starbucks will be too.  However, if you are going to a mini mall or big box area, the surrounding coffee sources may not be open.  Bring a thermos of mug with you, just in case.  You can always enjoy a peppermint mochas after your shopping is over and coffee places are open.
•    Research and Prioritize.  This may seems like a no-brainer, but do your research ahead of time.  Clip all necessary coupons, and develop a plan of attack.  Decide which stores and gifts you will focus on first, then go from there.
•    Check Your Receipt.  There’s no point in lining up all night if you don’t even end up getting the deal you wanted.  Watch the clerk ring you up, and check your receipt before you relieve the store.  
•    Play Nice.  I don’t care how little sleep you got, or how much you really need that ( fill in the blank) for your dear (insert relative’s name here).   Being rude to fellow shoppers, store clerks, and anyone else you dragged along with you on your early morning shopping expedition simply isn’t in the spirit of the holidays.  Don’t do it.

Smart Money also offers some awesome advice that is worth checking out.