9 Black Friday sanity savers

If you're thinking about avoiding Black Friday shopping because of the crowds and the stress, that may not be necessary.

There are ways to save your sanity as well as your cash.

-Think outside the bog box. Long lines at big box stores aren't the only option. Smaller, less crowded stores may have the same items you're looking for.

Justice carries toys and dolls, bookstores carry gifts, Office Depot and Staples have deals on computers, and Home Depot is man-heaven, and generally none have long lines.

-Timing and location is key. Even with the big box stores, there are ways to avoid the crowds.

Last year, I hit two Target stores - one at 2 a.m., the other at 10 a.m. Both times, there were minimal crowds and decent stock on the shelves.

The key? The timing, for sure. They're both somewhat off-times for hardcore shoppers. Location has a lot to do with it as well. These particular stores were not near other stores or malls. Most shoppers want to be able to hit several stores within close proximity - if you do the opposite, you may avoid those lines.

-Learn the layout. If you do want to shop at a crowded store, prepare first.

Know what you want and where to get it - this is not the time for browsing. Find your item and get right to the checkout lanes. Those are usually the worst part of Black Friday, so the earlier you can get there, the better.

-Bring a friend. Use the buddy system - shop with a friend. That way, you divide and conquer, saving time. One can even keep your place in the line while the other finds more deals.

-Prepare - even in the parking lot. See a shopping cart in the parking lot? Grab it. There might not be any inside.

-Stow those packages. If you're hitting a couple of stores in one location, it may not be possible to move your car. You have two choices: Take your bags to your car between stores, or bring your own collapsible shopping bag/cart so your hands are free to snag more bargains.

-Keep those receipts. And no matter how quickly you want to get out of there, put all your receipts in one place, in case of returns.

-Stay Smart(phone): Make sure you have your smartphone with you as well. Load it up with apps that will help you find the best deal , check stock at stores and more. And definitely check the Black Friday section of the 9 News app for everything you need to know to hit the stores.

-Watch - even in line. Good Morning Tri-State will be streamed live Black Friday morning on WCPO.com and in the 9 News app. You can be a part by sending us your best Black Friday deals on Facebook or email ( gmts@wcpo.com ).