The NRF reports that 33% of Americans say they're "definitely" braving the crowded retailers after Thanksgiving this year, up from 27% in 2010. Last year's Black Friday raked in $45 million for retailers nationwide with more than 212 million shoppers hitting stores.


According to an American Express Holiday survey of more than 2,000 Americans, shoppers plan to spend an average of $121 more this Black Friday than last; 34% of shoppers plan to have all their holiday gift buying done by the end of the day.

The expected record-breaking crowds means shoppers will need to be more savvy to snag bargains before they're gone. We checked in with experts to locate the best deals, what stores to spend the most time in, and just how early you'll have to rise if you want your stockings filled before December.

Best Bargains and Earliest Sales

"Make Macy's (M - News), Target (TGT - News) and Toys "R" Us your go-to stores for most of your holiday shopping," says Gifts.com's Editor in Chief, Dana Holmes.

According to Mike Griffith of CheapSally.com, a bargain-hunting site, national retailers including The Limited, Ann Taylor, The Body Shop and Tommy Hilfiger have all offered Black Friday sales in the past that vary between 30-50% off any purchase, and he expects the same discounts this year.