A recent poll by Reuters revealed over 1/3 of Americans plan to go shopping this Black Friday. Regarded as the official start to the holiday shopping season, contrary to popular belief, the Friday after Thanksgiving was not originally coined as “Black Friday” due to a history of shopping chaos.

After operating a full year “in the red” (at a loss), rumor has it the Friday after Thanksgiving stores would earn a profit due to shoppers spending so much on discounted items. Stores would then go “in the black ” (generating profit). Hence, Black Friday.

Since then, the day has evolved into one of the most profitable days for retailers and as the ultimate holiday shopping event for many.

Figuring out where to get the best deals can be challenging (especially in the wee hours of the morning). This shopping cheat sheet shows which products to track + which to ignore. 👀

DYK these Black Friday stats?

🛍️ According to the US Census Bureau, Americans are expected to spend about $61 billion over the Black Friday and Cyber Monday weekend.

🛍️ Of the generations, Gen X plans to spend $592.83 on Black Friday and Cyber Monday. That’s higher than the average $560.17 Gen Y says they’ll spend in 2018 and more than double the $247.92 reported by baby boomers.

🛍️ Retail sales in November have increased by $94.39 billion compared to a decade ago. ($453.5 billion was spent in November 2017 + $341.1 billion in November 2007.)

How to elevate your Black Friday Plans

💳 Rise early. According to Google’s data, traffic tends to be heaviest in the afternoon.

💳 Follow your budget. Make a list and stick to it. Opt for cash, leaving your credit cards at home.

💳 Be a tech genius. Download the Black Friday app by Sazzle to get real-time news about leaked ads, discounted products, and access to the best coupons.

💳 Don’t wear the color red to Target. (No explanation needed.)