Black Friday will be here soon, and you know what that means — an early alarm, tons of great deals, and… lots of traffic. As shoppers head out in search of bargains, you can expect to run into gridlocks, battles for parking spots, and maybe even a few tense moments on the road.
Whether you’re planning to head out before dawn or take a more laid-back approach, a few smart strategies can help you deal with the traffic like a pro. Here are a few quick tips to help make the day a little less hectic and a lot more fun.
1. Prepare for a Shift in Black Friday Traffic
If you’re aiming for those early door-buster deals, brace yourself. Shoppers head out well before stores open, and the morning rush can make the roads feel like a giant parking lot. Expect traffic to peak around sunrise and again at midday when shoppers hit round two.
Unless you have your heart set on crack-of-dawn bargains, it might make sense to sleep in a bit later. By mid-morning, things usually start to settle down, and the congestion eases up a bit. Early evening is another sweet spot for smoother driving and shorter lines.
2. Plan Your Route Like a Black Friday Boss
As you’re deciding which stores to hit first, take the time to plan out your route. Before you leave the house, check a GPS app to scope out real-time conditions and see where traffic is piling up. This way, you can be prepared while also making sure it doesn’t become a distraction while you’re driving.
If you can, don’t be afraid to take the scenic route. Back roads and less-traveled paths can sometimes be your best friend. Avoid the main roads, skip the worst congestion, and you just might be parking while everyone else is still waiting in traffic.
3. Don’t Skimp on Sleep
With all the anticipation and excitement, it can be tempting to skimp on sleep. Maybe you’re planning on catching a few hours of rest before hitting the road at dawn, or even thinking of staying up all night so you can be first in line. But here’s the deal — the drowsier you are, the more dangerous driving becomes. Drowsy driving slows reaction times and makes it tougher to spot hazards.
Ready for a wake-up call? About 6,400 people die each year in crashes involving drowsy driving. And, going more than 20 hours without sleep can impair you as much as having a blood alcohol content of 0.08%. So, if you’re heading out for those early sales, make sure you’ve rested up.
4. Stay Sharp and Alert
Black Friday excitement might make you want to “shop till you drop,” but you don’t want to be completely exhausted when it’s time to make your way home. After hours of hunting down deals and lugging around bags, you’ll probably feel at least a bit drained. So, keep your energy up by staying hydrated and taking frequent breaks to recharge.
Avoid heavy meals, which can make you sleepy, and skip the alcohol until you’re back home relaxing. But if a midday espresso or peppermint latte calls your name, go ahead and enjoy — it’ll help keep you alert for the drive home.
5. Set Yourself Up for a Stress-Free Day
There’s no avoiding Black Friday traffic, so give yourself some extra time to reach your destination. Rushing will just add to the stress, and who needs that? If you head out early, you’ll feel more relaxed, even if you run into unexpected delays along the way.
Once you’re on the road, keep a safe following distance from the car in front of you. Everyone’s in a hurry, but a little bit of patience goes a long way. And remember, a calm, relaxed drive makes for a better shopping day.
Stay Safe on Black Friday and Beyond
Black Friday deals are exciting, but no discount is worth risking your safety. By planning ahead and staying alert, you can enjoy a safe and successful day of shopping. Prioritize your safety by keeping these tips in mind while planning your Black Friday shopping trips.
Updated 11/21/2024