Black Friday shopping tips

FRESNO, Calif. -- National Retail Federation is forecasting an increase in sales by almost 4 percent to more than $665 billion. That number could be modest. Those who were polled said they were being cautious with their holiday spending because of uncertainty with the election outcome.

Black Friday Shopping Tips

Retail experts say plotting your shopping route and downloading store apps are among the top Black Friday survival tips. They add you might want to bring company, and coordinate food, bathroom and coffee runs with your line mates.

• Plot your shopping route early: Most retailers now post their Black Friday ads online early so you can browse doorbusters from the comfort of home and finalize your shopping list and destinations.



• Read the fine print of doorbuster ads: Big doorbuster items have limited quantities, so get in line early. Black Friday ads should indicate the minimum quantity guaranteed to be in stock. The best retailers to shop are those who pass out tickets, so people are confident they'll get what they came for once the doors open.









• Download store apps: With tools like the Best Buy online gift guide and other store apps, you can create a holiday wish list on your smart phone to share ahead of time with family and friends - and take with you as you shop.



• Bring company: Wrangle a friend or make friends in line to allow for breaks while waiting. Bring snacks for sharing and be neighborly. This will help when negotiating line-holding strategies in the event that nature calls.



• Get comfortable: Check the weather and make it fun. Bring a tent, chairs, sleeping bags and blankets. Hand and foot warmers may be a necessity to fight off the cold or in some cases, rain or snow. Bring along a favorite device or game to play with your newly found friends.



• Be polite: Remember that being nice to your neighbors makes the wait more pleasant. Coordinate food, bathroom, and coffee runs with your line mates. Give them a heads up for the number of people you may be holding spots in line, and stay calm when the doors open.