This Barrie 360 article is brought to you by Park Place Barrie.
Black Friday can be one of the most exciting days of the year … and one of the most overwhelming. Between the early-bird lineups, door-crasher deals and chaotic crowds, it’s easy to get swept up and burn out fast.
But with a bit of strategy, you can turn the day into something fun, productive, and surprisingly enjoyable. Here’s how to plan your Black Friday shopping like a pro, stay energized, avoid impulse buys, and actually enjoy the experience.
Start with a game plan
Before you even leave the house, map out the stops you want to make. Prioritize the stores with limited-quantity deals first. Electronics, appliances, and other big-ticket items usually sell out fast.
If you’re hitting the major box stores, like Best Buy, to get some of those headline offers, plan those as early stops. That way you’ll beat the crowds and avoid missing what you came for.
Bonus Tip: Make a “must buy” list and a “nice to have” list. It keeps you from wandering, overspending, or forgetting something important.
Stick to a simple budget
It doesn’t have to be strict, but going in with a ballpark number is never a bad idea.
Overspending happens fast during holiday sales because the discounts feel like free money. A small spending target helps keep things real.
Fuel up before the chaos
Black Friday shopping on an empty stomach is the fastest route to crankiness and bad decisions. Start your morning with a proper breakfast so you’re energized and ready to go.
Look for a spot that has a breakfast menu loaded with filing, comforting food before the crowds hit full swing. Evivva or one of the other delicious restaurants in Village Courtyard at Park Place are perfect if you want to stay close to shopping and Black Friday deals.
Evaluate deals like a pro
Not all discounts are created equal. A few quick checks can help you avoid buyer’s remorse later:
- Look up regular prices in advance. Some “sales” have been marked up right before being marked down.
- Compare the warranty and quality. A super-cheap TV isn’t a deal if it fizzles out by next year and has zero coverage.
- Ask yourself if it’s a want or a need. If it wasn’t on your list, pause before adding it to the cart.
Use apps & digital tools
Price trackers, digital flyers, and store apps can help you save even more.
Useful examples:
- Store apps for exclusive discounts
- Loyalty points for bonus savings
- Reminders for flash sales
- Mobile payment for a faster checkout
A little tech goes a long way on busy Black Friday shopping days.
Pace yourself with food + drink breaks
Shopping all day is no joke. Build in breaks so you don’t crash halfway through your list.
When you need to recharge, swing by a restaurant like The Canadian Brewhouse for a drink, some apps, and a quick breather. It’s the perfect mid-day pit stop to reset, rest your feet, and catch your second wind before round two.
Stay comfortable and keep stress low
Black Friday is a marathon, not a sprint. A few comfort-focused tips make all the difference:
- Wear comfortable shoes
- Bring water
- Keep lightweight bags or use trunk drop-offs
- Take short breaks every couple of hours
These small things keep you calmer, happier, and less overwhelmed, especially during peak traffic times.
Treat yourself after the hustle
After a long day of deals scored, bags carried, and crowds navigated, take a moment to unwind. A mini-pampering session can turn the day from exhausting to enjoyable.
A stop at The Spa by Nails For You for a pedicure is the perfect way to soothe tired feet after hours of walking. Consider it your reward for surviving the busiest shopping day of the year.
Know when to walk away
Just because something is on sale doesn’t mean you need it. If you start feeling pressured, overstimulated, or unsure, step outside, take a breather, or grab a snack. Clearer thinking leads to smarter spending.
And if you don’t find what you were looking for? Keep in mind that holiday deals continue for weeks … you’ll likely get another chance.
Enjoy the Experience
Black Friday doesn’t have to be chaotic. With a little prep, a good breakfast, smart deal-checking, and built-in breaks (including good food, drinks, and maybe even a pedicure), the day can actually feel fun and productive.
Plan well. Pace yourself. Treat yourself. And you’ll walk away with great deals and great memories … not just a pile of receipts.
