The streets are fairly quiet outside Macy's Union Square now, but come Black Friday the stores will be overflowing with shoppers anxious to grab great sales. Yet for others, all this madness is a bit much.
"It's too crazy. There are really good deals and stuff, but I just don't like have the energy to go out there and shop," said San Francisco resident Natasha Dangond.
For those who prefer getting a few extra hours sleep, there is an alternative that will get you the same great deals without the hassle. That brings us to myth No. 1 -- Black Friday deals are only available at the store.
Mark LoCastro with DealNews says, "Our data indicated that 70 percent of all Black Friday in-store deals will be available online."
That means you don't have to line up on Thanksgiving Day. Myth No. 2 -- you have to walk into the store to get a door buster price.
"Many, if not all doorbusters, are available online at that same price, or sometimes even cheaper," said LoCastro.
Looking for a new iPad or iPhone? Myth No. 3 -- you have to go to the Apple store for its Black Friday sale.
"Certified resellers of Apple products like Amazon, Best Buy, MacMall, MacConenction, they offer almost double the discounts on Apple products," said LoCastro.
But for many shoppers, it's not just about the sales. They brave the crowds because Black Friday has become a cultural phenomenon.
"The whole experience, the happening, the holiday cheer in the city," said San Francisco resident Andre Royal.
Myth No. 4 -- all deals are advertised in the newspaper. DealNews says some secret deals only show up online as competitors try to outdo each other. Myth No. 5 -- nobody will meet Black Friday prices. Stores like Staples, Target and Best Buy are now matching prices of even online competitors such as Amazon.
And here's myth No. 6 -- the best day to shop for the best bargains is Black Friday.
Tune in on Friday for tips on the best times to buy the items you want.
Checkout our Black Friday Resource page here.
