Shoppers prepare for Black Friday

Popular+stores+include+Forever+21

IMAGE / Karmen Bishoff

Popular stores include Forever 21

With Thanksgiving on its way to many homes, so comes plenty of advertisements for Black Friday.

Thanksgiving is a day filled with turkey, crunching leaves, football, and family. But many families now make it a tradition to cut out of dinner early and hit the stores.

Senior Tyler Schwerin plans to score some deals this Black Friday.

“I usually shop at Great Lakes Crossing,” Schwerin said. “I tend to look for cheap video games. This year I’m looking for athletic clothing.”

Popular stores on Black Friday include Walmart, Target, Old Navy, and Best Buy.

Stores such as Walmart and Toys-R-Us release toy books to help children pick out toys they want for Christmas. The sales run between Nov. 1 and Dec. 24.

Highlights from the 2015 Walmart Toy Book:

  • Girl Scout Cookie Oven – $48.74, regularly $59.94
  • Backyard Discovery Monticello Cedar Swing Set – $597.97
  • PlayStation 4 Star Wars Battlefront 500 GB bundle – $349

Teens, on the other hand, are looking to score some deals from Forever 21, Old Navy, Target and Macy’s.

Stores such as Macy’s will open at 6 p.m. on Thanksgiving night.

Highlights from the 2015 ad from Macy’s:

  • Rampage, Seven Dials, and Style & Co Women’s Boots- $19.99
  • Women’s Faux-Fur-Trim Belted Puffer Coat- $19.99
  • Men’s Snorkel Parka Coat- $39.99

When shopping for parents or grandparents, Dunham’s and Sears offer several gifts at a low price.

Dunham’s is the perfect place to purchase sportswear for a dad, grandfather, or other loved ones.

I like Black Friday because companies put out stuff for a lot less than what it’s worth. I guess you could call me a penny pincher.

— A.J. St. John, senior

Sears provides clothing for men and women at a competitive price.

Senior A.J. St. John plans to go shopping this year. He plans to begin his shopping at midnight, in hopes of purchasing a PlayStation 4.

“I like Black Friday because companies put out stuff for a lot less than what it’s worth,” St. John said. “I guess you could call me a penny pincher.”

Many students are old enough to drive, thus giving them the ability to purchase gifts for their parents and other loved ones.

Senior Hannah Ploof is looking forward to going shopping with her family this year. She suggests shopping at Bed Bath & Beyond or Target.

“My mom, sister, and I are planning on buying my dad a new phone for Christmas,” Ploof said.

There are many safety precautions young adults should take when going out on the busiest shopping day of the year.

Teens and adults should never go shopping by themselves. This Black Friday, go shopping with friends or family.

Girls should not carry purses that they will be tempted to set down. Because many stores will be crowded, purses and money should be secured so it will not be misplaced.

Young adults should also plan ahead for their night.

When planning to shop hours on end, pack some snacks and plenty of water. Stores will be very warm and crowded — many people typically become overheated or hungry.

Having a snack and a cold drink will make the shopping experience much more enjoyable.

If you plan to wait outside for a store to open, dress in layers because the doors of stores will be constantly opened and closed and the heat is on at full blast to keep employees warm.

All shoppers should have a game-plan prior to going shopping.

Make a list to stay organized, so you can easily purchase what you need.

Stores do not always open at the same time. Depending on what time you plan to go shopping, if you have a gift that is only available until sold out, go to that store first and then continue your shopping.

Whether you are looking to shop for a younger sibling or cousin, parents or grandparents, Black Friday is bound to offer everyone a good deal.

Happy Shopping!