You’ve heard of Man v. Wild? Well, Black Friday camping is just as intense. Not only do you have to battle hoards of people to get the items you want, but, if you’re really serious, you have to face the environmental elements while camping out.
Camped out in line in the concrete jungle we call a store parking lot, there may be wind, snow, rain, sleet, and the inevitable turkey coma that remains from Thanksgiving dinner. This post is intended to equip you with the skills that you will need to help you survive the Black Friday camp out, and, ultimately, get the goods your set out for.
Some retailers, like Best Buy, offer extreme price cuts on big ticket items, generally have limited quantities. So some people camp out days ahead of time to get their hands on these deeply discounted products. This being said, pack and prepare accordingly.
Here is a list of items we recommend you bring with you for your Black Friday camp out.
- A Tent: A small tent is great to help you avoid the wind, and keep in body heat.
- A Sleeping Bag: Brrr. It’s cold out here. There must be some Black Friday deals in the atmosphere.
- Dress in Layers: Depending on the climate, you might want to dress in layers. You can always take them off if you’re too warm. I suggest multiple pairs of socks, mittens, a hat, scarf, a heavy winter jacket, sweatshirt, and snow pants. You’re not out to win “best dressed” here, you’re out to get great deals.
- Bring a Buddy: This is key. Bring somebody else with you to not only keep you company, but to guard the tent when doors open.
- A cooler of food/water/snacks: You’re going to be camped out for a while. Be prepared. Bring your favorite food, drinks, and snacks to keep your spirits up. Avoid the grumpiness that often accompanies hunger. Your partner(s), and the people around you in line will thank you for it.
- Folding Chair(s): Sitting on the cold cement will only make you colder and more uncomfortable.
- Hand Warmers: Some people suggest bringing a heat lamp, but that can get dangerous. Hand warmers are easy to carry with you and safe to use. Not to mention, they’ll help warm up your body (and spirit) while enduring the frigid Black Friday weather.
- A Flashlight: The parking lot may be well lit, but probably won’t provide fantastic light for giving the Black Friday ads one last review.
- Smartphone/games/books/etc: Time will go by painfully slow if you’re bored while waiting in line. Bring some things to entertain you. Your smartphone/ tablet, some cards to play solitaire, a book or magazine, anything that will keep you entertained until the doors open.
So, you have everything you need. You pull into the parking lot. Now what? Here is some general Black Friday Camping Etiquette:
- Your spot in line: Your tent or chair equals your spot in line. So set up camp behind the person in front of you.
- Don’t cut: Everyone will hate you.
- Be patient: You know there will be a lot of people, and lines, and pushing. Take a deep breath. Everything will be better when you’re home, snuggled up on the couch watching the brand new TV you just got at an amazing price.
- Keep a positive attitude: You might be cold, tired, and getting cranky, but keep your eye on the prize. Great Deals!!!
- Have fun: Everyone is there for the same reason. To get a great deal. Make friends in line, joke around, have fun. It will make the time go by much faster.
Will you be camping outside your favorite store for Black Friday? Brag about your camp out plans in the comments!
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About Lauren Brajczewski
When Lauren isn't busy reporting on Black Friday for BradsDeals, she loves watching Shark Week, baking cupcakes, organizing, watching trash tv, and a finding good deal (of course).
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[...] How to Camp Out for Black Friday: A Survival Guide [...]
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[...] planning if you haven’t already. Start writing your list of things to buy, getting your camping gear ready, and mapping out the layouts of the stores you plan to hit on Black [...]