7 tips for making the most of Black Friday shopping

So you've been too busy planning for the Thanksgiving feast and family reunions to give much thought to Black Friday shopping.

Even the last-minute shopper can still make the most of the spree. Here are seven easy ways to get ready:

1. Let the bloggers do the work

Fashion bloggers are experts at putting together the perfect ensemble. So it's no surprise they also can curate a comprehensive list of markdowns.

We like Chicago bloggers Lauren Nolan, aka the Lake Shore Lady, and Blair Staky, who runs The Fox and the She.

Nolan assembled a handy guide last year with promotional codes to use at online checkouts and links to her favorite retailers.

Staky also has ideas for holiday gifts and party outfits she models on her Instagram account.

2. 'A shopper's BFF'

RetailMeNot offers printable coupons or online codes from more than 50,000 retailers. And if you're roaming the aisles, the Texas-based company has a smartphone app that sends alerts of ongoing sales at nearby stores.

"It's basically like a shopper's BFF," says Sara Skirboll, a shopping and trends expert at RetailMeNot.

3. Pile on the savings

Skirboll recommends finding cashback offers and discount gift cards to stack savings.

"Not many people realize or think about buying a discount gift card for yourself," Skirboll says. "They're not just for gifting anymore."

And if you go to the mall with only one or two gift cards, you may not be tempted to overspend.

"This is one way to really stick to your budget," Skirboll says.

4. While on the subjects of budgets ...

Easily enticed by the impulse buy? Consumers can use a holiday budget planner by Clearpoint, a nonprofit credit counseling agency. The online calculator at Clearpoint.org helps shoppers budget for gifts, travel, parties and other seasonal expenses based on their income.

5. What to buy

Take advantage of price cuts on electronics, designer clothing and personal services. But Skirboll notes shoppers should wait to buy jewelry until January when stores are ramping up for Valentine's Day. Shoppers should also see better prices on fitness equipment when people are making New Year's resolutions.

6. Don't ignore Twitter and Facebook

Follow all your favorite brands on social media. "They often post exclusive sales just for their followers," Skirboll says.

7. Think safety

The Better Business Bureau reminds bargain hunters of a few safety measures to protect themselves from thieves. Take one credit card so you have to cancel only one in the event someone takes your wallet. Don't grab more bags than you can carry. And hold onto your keys while you're returning to your car.