It’s not even Halloween, but I’m already thinking about Black Friday. (Is that weird?) For as long as I can remember, I have been a Black Friday enthusiast. When I was a much younger lady, I loved to hit the outlets for “Midnight Madness” to scour the racks for shoes, clothes, and purses.

While that was fun, it could also be expensive and I would only buy a few things. This all changed after I discovered couponing and deal hunting. Now, by combining sales, coupons, and rebates, I’m able to bring home tons and tons of goodies for mere pennies.

Naturally, this kind of shopping doesn’t just come together by accident; it’s not for the casual shopper. If you want the most stuff for the least money, some inconveniences will have to be endured—getting up super early, facing the crowds, enduring frustration, etc.

I prefer to start early, putting my lists together once the ads are leaked online. (Each store varies their release time so you have to regularly check. Usually, everything is leaked 2 or 3 weeks before the big day.) The info is posted on many sites, both retailers and blogs. I love Slick Deals because it’s the most comprehensive.

After my list is complete, I look through my stash of insert coupons and printables. Often, there will be ones that work into the deals and freebies can become moneymakers.

With detailed plan in hand, I’m ready to tackle the drugstores, going first thing Thursday morning when doors open at 7:00. (Technically, it’s supposed to be Friday, but lots of places open on Thanksgiving.)

I try to find everything that’s free after rebate, but there’s no guarantee. Sometimes items aren’t in stock, or another couponer beats me to it—even on Thanksgiving morning! Just do the best you can, and try to remember that it’s supposed to be fun.

Common sense things to remember, but worth noting:

1. Get a good night’s sleep. If you’re overtired, it’s much harder to face a multiple-store coupon marathon.
2. Eat breakfast and drink at least 1 large cup of coffee. You want to be full and focused.
3. Keep a separate envelope for each store that contains a corresponding list and coupons so you won’t get confused.
4. At the store, follow the rules. Take notice of limits and don’t use extra rewards cards. Ask an employee which register is set aside for those shoppers doing huge hauls. Try not to make a chaotic situation worse.
5. Schedule breaks. Especially important if you’re doing multiple stores. Take a break in between. Go home if you live close by, or sit in the parking lot for a breather. I always pack bottled water, energy shots, and a snack.
6. Don’t bring kids or significant others. I can’t stress this one enough. Unless your loved one is also an extreme couponer, they will either slow you down or beg you to leave. Shop alone for the best results.

After the drugstores, I head home to cook, watch the Macy’s parade, eat/socialize with family and try to take a nap. After that, it’s late afternoon already, which means it’s time to prepare for round 2 (mall shopping).

Yes, it’s a looooooong day. For me, however, it’s totally worth it. I couldn’t do it every week, but once a year is doable. And who doesn’t love free stuff?

Will you be shopping on Black Friday?