The shopping day millions of people look forward to all year long is almost here! Computers for $200, TVs for $100, video games for $20... If you have visions of doorbusters dancing in your head, you'll need to get in line early!

In 2011, Black Friday sales hit a new record. This year, experts predict another increase in retail foot traffic, as the continuingly sluggish economy has people paying close attention to their budgets and trying to get more for their money.

With so much competition, the only way to ensure you snag the hottest deals is by being one of the first people through the door. In many cases, this can require camping out. If your Black Friday strategy includes a night under the stars after scarfing down turkey and pumpkin pie, gather up these supplies and follow my tips for a successful Black Friday camp out.

• Tent - A small, easy-to-assemble dome tent is sufficient to protect you from the elements.
• Sleeping Bag - They are less cumbersome than blankets and can be rolled up or stuffed in a sack quickly.
• Folding Chair - Sidewalks are awfully cold, not to mention uncomfortable.
• Food and Water - Pack PB&Js, granola bars, crackers, fruits/veggies and plenty of water. You'll need energy to stay ahead of the crowds!
• Entertainment - A book with a booklight, deck of cards, iPod, etc. will help the time pass quickly.
• Shopping Buddy - Divide and conquer is one of my favorite strategies. It's also nice to have someone to guard the camp when you need to make a potty run. Also, one of you can pack up your camp shortly before the store opens while the other holds your place in line.
• Extra Cell Phone Battery - It's going to be a long night/day - don't lose power.
• Dress in Layers. It will be cold outside, but overcrowded stores can be very warm.
• Handwarmers - Designed for skiers and hunters, pop these into your gloves and you won't have to worry about not being able to grab the last Furby off the shelf because your hands are too cold to grasp anything.
• Talk to strangers. Making friends with the people you are waiting in line with will give you allies once the doors open. They also might clue you in on some deals you might not know about.

Of course, if all of this seems too overwhelming and you prefer to shop from the comfort of home, be sure and use BlackFriday.com so you can earn Cashback for your online purchases! My Black Friday shopping strategy this year includes a computer, a pair of slippers, and a batch of homemade gingerbread cookies. After 10 years in a row of braving the elements and fighting the crowds, this girl is shopping the easy way.

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