Black Friday can be a blast… or a disaster. Between the crowds, the chaos, and the lines that feel longer than I-40 on a Friday afternoon, it’s easy to get overwhelmed fast. But with a few simple tricks, you can turn Black Friday into a fun, stress-free adventure – and come home with everything on your list and your sanity intact.
Here are my top Bodacious Black Friday Survival Tips.
1. Bring a Collapsible, Reusable Water Bottle
Shopping takes longer than you think — and dehydration makes everything harder.
A collapsible water bottle saves space in your bag, weighs almost nothing, and keeps you from standing in yet another line just to buy a drink.
Fill it before you leave home, and refill it anywhere with a fountain or water bottle station.
2. Carry a Fully Charged Battery Bank
Between digital coupons, store apps, online price checks, and snapping photos of deals, your phone will drain faster than a Black Friday coffee pot.
A portable charger is non-negotiable.
Bonus points if it has two USB ports like mine. You can help a friend… or rescue a stranger who’s panicking with 2% battery left.
3. Pack USB-Rechargeable Hand Warmers
If you’re standing in early morning lines, the cold can ruin the experience fast – especially if you deal with joint pain, nerve damage, or Raynaud’s like I do.
These USB hand warmers slide into your pocket, recharge easily with your battery bank, and keep your fingers warm enough to open those stubborn shopping bags. I use them frequently.
4. Create a Shopping Plan (and Stick to It!)
Before you hit the stores, map out:
- Where you’re going
- What time each store opens
- Your must-have items
- The order you’ll visit them
This saves hours and keeps you out of impulse-buy territory.
A plan helps you stay focused and avoid exhausting yourself early in the day.
5. Carry a Small Crossbody Bag Instead of a Purse
This is the tip nobody talks about – but it makes a world of difference.
A lightweight crossbody keeps your:
- wallet
- phone
- hand warmers
- chapstick
- water bottle
right where you need them.
It stays secure, leaves both hands free for shopping, and won’t slide off your shoulder while you reach for items. It’s a huge help if you’re juggling bags, using a mobility aid, or managing your service dog’s leash.
Final Thoughts: Be Bodacious and Shop Smart
Black Friday doesn’t have to be chaos.
With a little preparation (and a lot of confidence), you can have fun, find great deals, and stay safe and comfortable the whole day.
Be Bodacious — don’t let life get in the way of living.
If you enjoyed these tips, stick around – more travel, lifestyle, and service dog stories are on the way!
Bodacious Broads Travel Blog 