Black Friday is one of the biggest shopping events of the year, and knowing how to navigate the sales can help you save even more. Here are five tips you need to know to make the most out of the Black Friday deals and discounts.

1. Only venture out for doorbusters.

Most retailers are now offering their Black Friday deals both in-store and online.  Unless your Black Friday ad specifically notes that an item is only going to be available in-store as a doorbuster or Special Buy, skip the crazy crowds and shop for the best deals from the comfort of your own home. We see a lot of the best deals sell out online though, so make sure you’re ready to start clicking right at midnight on Thanksgiving Day.

2. Price compare while you shop.

If you are going to be shopping in-store, shop smarter by price comparing before you buy. Download the Amazon app so that you can compare prices between what you see on the shelf, and what it would cost to order it online.

3. Shop secret Alexa-exclusive savings and deals.

Every year, Amazon offers outstanding deals that are exclusive to Alexa users. If you own an Alexa device, ask “Alexa, what are your deals?” Exclusive deals in the past have included special pricing on Amazon devices and big savings on TVs.

4. Join store email lists.

Do you know where you plan to stop this Black Friday? Compile your list of must-stop stores, and about a month before the big day, join those stores’ email lists. Many of them will send you special welcome offers, like 15% of your next purchase or $20 off $100. It’s an easy way to save even more on your Black Friday buys!

5. Sign up for store loyalty programs.

Today, most major retailers offer their own loyalty rewards programs. Sign up for the ones with the stores you know you’ll be shopping on Black Friday to take advantage of extra savings. Stores like Kohls, JCPenny, Best Buy, Petco, Ulta, and Dick’s Sporting Goods all offer percentage discounts when you use your loyalty card at the time of your purchase. If you’re shopping online, keep an eye out for free or discounted shipping for loyalty rewards members, as well.

Check us out on KCTV’s Better Kansas City, sharing these awesome Black Friday savings tips!