Survival strategies for 'Black Friday'

Black Friday is for the aggressive shopper. People push and clamor and fight as if they're in a rugby scrum — and that's just in the parking lot.

But since we all know proper planning prevents poor performance, we've compiled a list of tips and tricks to help you maximize your shopping time (and dollars) on Black Friday — and Cyber Monday.

IN ADVANCE OF BLACK FRIDAY

Buy the newspaper: Sure, we're a bit biased, but there's a reason the Thanksgiving Day newspaper is the fattest paper of the year. Advertisers stuff papers with coupons and circulars advertising their best sales.

Do the "Black Friday" Google: Don't have the time to go through the papers? Can't remember who has what from the ads you saw on TV? Do the Black Friday Web search. Hundreds of sites have Black Friday sale information, so you can peruse the latest ads and updates. You can also go to your favorite store's Web site for the skinny on sales.

Case the place: Check out the store the day before Thanksgiving so you can make a beeline to the items you've coveted.

While you're there, make friends with an associate: The adage of "it's who you know" extends to shopping. The best way to get the inside scoop is to check in with your new favorite associate. Often, they've been briefed on the locations of all the hottest items in the store, and how many they have. Tell them what you're after. Listen to their advice. Plan your strategy.

Shop gladiator-style: Leave uninterested spouses and children at home, and bring teenagers who can run fast. (Gladiator shoes not recommended.)

Dress the part: Comfortable clothing is a must. You don't want itchy wool pants to distract from the mission. Remember, the mall is not the place to try out your new Jimmy Choos. Stick with the Nikes. And leave your coat in the car. It will only make you sweat and slow you down.

Have a party: Afraid you won't wake up at 3 a.m. to get in line? Stay up and have a Black Friday all-nighter party with friends. Make Black-Friday-tinis with vodka, blackberry brandy, black raspberry liqueur and lemon twist. And you may not have to wait too long, as some outlet stores open at midnight on Turkey Day. Shop all night, sleep all day.

Be wired, not tired: If you do decide to drag yourself out of bed at 3 a.m., make sure you energize with plenty of caffeine. You know your limit. Maximize your jittery potential without needing Mylanta.

But don't stick to a liquid diet: A cranky shopper is a less productive shopper. Eat before you go, and stock your purse with snacks. You'll appreciate that power bar come lunch time when you see the lines in the food court.