It can be hard to resist the idea of scoring holiday gifts at half the price, however Black Friday may not be worth it. While the day after Thanksgiving has been considered the biggest shopping day of the year, it’s been debated whether the day is truly worth your time.

We see ads on TV showcasing the good deals that will supposedly be in stores. In reality the majority of the merchandise isn’t on sale, as many retail stores will mark up prices before the holidays so they can advertise big sales.

In addition to false advertising and hour long lines, Black Friday may also be dangerous. People have actually used pepper spray, rob and trample others just for the sake of a good deal. In 2008 there was even an employee trampled to death by a stampede of shoppers. Though most people can shop on this day with civility, there are others that can’t.

Black Friday can also ruin Thanksgiving for some families. This is the one time of the year Americans of all race and religion can come together to enjoy time with their families, but the day after can wreck that. Many stores participating in Black Friday have decided to start the post-Thanksgiving madness earlier than ever due to consumer demands. Though some people may want to start the shopping earlier, employees are having to cut time with their family short.

People shop on Black Friday because they believe it is one of the best times to get good deals, however this is not true. Retailers keep prices low throughout the holiday season to encourage buying and the weeks immediately after Christmas can provide the best deals as stores try to get rid of the products they stocked up on during the holidays. If you’re looking to get deals before Christmas though, Cyber Monday often offers the same deals without the madness Black Friday includes.

Though Black Friday provides a good opportunity for shoppers to save money, it is one of the most chaotic days of the year and can bring out the worst in human nature. There are many times throughout the holiday season to find cheap merchandise, this month should be focused on counting our blessings and spending time with loved ones.

Sincerely,

Sydney

When thoughts turn to Black Friday, images of a massive sale with a massive crowd often come to mind. However, it can be worth the madness to get out of your cozy home and score something for 50 percent off.

Last year was my first year going Black Friday shopping, but I decided to go after the crowd. I thought that there would be nothing left, but I was pleasantly surprised by how much was still available.

A soft, big throw blanket for over 60 percent off at Macy’s, yes please. A Tommy Hilfiger pullover sweater that was 50 percent off, mine. Beats Power wireless headphones for 60 percent off: absolutely.

With this being said, it’s crucial to look at deals in the papers or online if you want a deal on something specific, and expensive. Most stores who have Black Friday sales limit those things on sale to what was announced on line or in the newspaper before Black Friday.

If you really aren’t looking for anything specific, and just want something on sale, the best bet is to go hours after the rush. The lines are shorter, it’s less hectic, and things are still way cheaper than it was before. Just don’t expect your favorite high price items to still be in stock.

Places where “Doorbuster Deals” are going on are also a good opportunity to get the deals you want, but it still comes along with the crazy frugal people. If you do decide to go during the rush, be careful, but most importantly, know EXACTLY what you are looking for.

Perhaps one of the best things about Black Friday deals, not paying full price for someone else’s gift for the holidays.

These tips may not be universal, but hopefully they will make your shopping experience faster, convenient and significantly cheaper.