My name is Karen Hoxmeier. For as long as I can remember, I've been a bargain hunter. In 1999, I turned my love of clearance shopping into a website called MyBargainBuddy.com, where I post online deals and share tips on creative ways to save money.

I started shopping Black Friday sales nearly 20 years ago. Back then, the crowds weren't nearly as fierce as they are now. Sure, people went crazy for Cabbage Patch Dolls in the 80's and Tickle Me Elmo in the 90's, but no one got shot or pepper sprayed while trying to snag one!

To survive Black Friday sales these days, you need to be prepared both mentally and physically. Unfortunately, you can't buy patience in a bottle, at least not without a prescription, and wearing a suit of armor would be more of a hindrance than help. However, there are many things you can do to get the most out of your Black Friday shopping adventure.

• Plan your attack by using this site! At BlackFriday.com, many of the Black Friday ads are posted up to 3 weeks in advance. Determine which stores are you going to hit 1st, 2nd, 3rd, etc. Register so you can use BlackFriday.com's wishlist to keep track of the items you want.

• Do your research - Browse the ads, figure out who has what at the best price. Prioritize your shopping list by the amount of money you will save.

• Find out if stores in your area price match their competitors. The more shopping you can get done in one place, the better. Don't forget to bring the ads with you!

• Make a list of what you are going to buy at each store and who the gift is for. Stick to your list! Impulse buys can quickly put you over budget.

• Leave kids at home. It's hard enough shopping with little ones on a normal day. Having them tag along on one of the busiest shopping days of the year is a recipe for disaster.

• Use the buddy system. When you shop with a friend, one person can wait in line while the other snatches up the bargains. Remember, time is money. Make sure your cell phones are fully charged so you don't have trouble finding each other. Communication is key if you plan to divide and conquer!

• Keep your eyes on the prize - grab the doorbusters and move on. Retailers are banking on you spending more than you planned to. That's where all their profits come from! Don't get distracted. Snatch the deals and get out.

• Go early and finish early. By 10am, the best deals are sold out, the lines are horrible, and the stores are a mess. Head home and shop online (using BlackFriday.com, of course, so you can also get cashback!).

• Bring water and healthy snacks. Those lines can get pretty long sometimes. You'll feel better if you stay hydrated and aren't hungry.

• If you spot a great deal, buy more than one! There's no rule that says you have to give everyone different gifts.

Don't be discouraged if you aren't able to score everything on your list. BlackFriday.com will be posting doorbusters available at online stores all season long, plus you'll have the added advantage of earning cashback! Be sure and register for their email newsletter so you don't miss a thing.

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