If you're braving the crowds and lines to shop Thanksgiving night or Black Friday morning, please check out these very good shopping tips from U.S. Consumer Reports. One of the most important tips is to be prepared. Check out all the circulars and online specials so you know how much things cost. Make a list and a budget and stick to both.   And before you pull out of the driveway, check last minute deals online. You might just find the same ones as in the store, so then you don't have to go anywhere.

More here.  And last by not least, be patient and courteous, because it often gets ugly out there, unfortunately.