Black Friday: the traditional first day of Christmas shopping! But don't let that description fool you, this event if filled with crazy shopping madness from spending the night in front of stores to folks being trampled storming the front doors of stores. Take it to any degree you want whether that is waiting in line for hours and shopping all night long or that's sleeping in and catching a deal or two-- it's all up to you! If you've never been, don't be frightened by this description because you should really check out the sweet deals and shop till you drop! As always, be careful out there everyone- it can get dangerous on Black Friday! Who knew shopping could ever be so stressful? These ten tips will help make it a less stressful and more eventful black Friday!

1. Make a plan

Seriously, make a plan! Map it out and hit everything you want in a timely manner! Who wants to be driving around like a headless chicken undecided on where they want to go? If you don't plan, you'll never accomplish your shopping list and will most likely end up on the wrong side of town.

2. Verify store times

Many stores have changed their opening times to stand out from others or are open earlier than previous years, so make sure you check the times and add that to your plan! Watch out for places like REI who will be closed on Black Friday. Yes, I'm totally serious! They started a campaign called #OptOutside-- you can still order online but they won't start your order until Saturday.

3. Carpool, carpool, carpool

Parking will be a nightmare guaranteed, but carpooling is the solution to your problem! Spend less time trying to park your cars, and more time together, sipping your coffee and staying awake during the ungodly hours of Black Friday. Don't forget to make a playlist for your adventures!

4. Lists are good

Lists keep things simple! When the lines are what seem to be HOURS long, you may not have time to wander the whole store carelessly (unless you added that into your plan!) so make a list of things you want to look at and stick to it. In and out should be the mission-- well aside from the stellar deals-- but lists never hurt!

5. Trunk Space

A car full of black Friday shoppers-- hmm that may require a large trunk! Keep in mind the types of large objects you might be buying and plan accordingly to fit them in a vehicle with enough trunk space for the carpool!

6. Comfy Clothes and Coffee

If you are going to be shopping in the middle of the night or beginning before the sun rises, I would highly suggest a large cup of coffee be taken with you-- and maybe even a few more throughout the day! Comfy clothes are a must for long lines, trying on clothes and for the long day filled with constant shopping.

7. Stay calm

These lines will require quite the patience because you could potentially be there for hours. Oh, and don't feel the need to throw elbows and trample others- IT'S JUST A SALE. But be careful-- some folks take this a little too seriously, stay safe out there everyone!

8. Just because there's a deal, doesn't mean you need to use it

I think this one is pretty self-explanatory but in case you need some help with this one... budget! Ask "do I really need it?" Do I need to use this deal?" I'm sure your wallet will appreciate this tip!

9. Cyber Monday

Don't forget cyber Monday will be right around the corner! Add that to your budget so you have money to do some online shopping and think about things you can get online without the lines and crazy people.

10. Have Fun

Shop till you drop! Have fun and enjoy the day of madness if you are a total shopping fanatic! And for those of you who are being dragged along, just go with the flow and try your best to embrace the fun. I hope if you're brave enough to go that you are as excited as the Cheetah Girls are to shop!