Black Friday 2012 Deals: The 10 Shopping Deals That Will Save You Big Bucks

It’s that time of year again. It's another holiday season, which means the sales are rampant and the people are hungry for more. Stores are getting ready for the crazed Black Friday shoppers as early as 8 p.m. Thursday, and while hectic, it is actually a great time to buy items marked down considerably. Here are the 10 categories of goods which see considerable markdowns on Black Friday.

1) Tech Gadgets

Tech gifts are the norm, but make sure to get something you don’t already have. Among new tech gifts the hot items include: the new Kindle Paperwhite, iPad mini, Wii U, and for little ones LeapPad2. Do your research before you buy so you are not disappointed. Yes, it’s the best time for good deals, but tech gifts are still expensive so buy only what you really need (not just what you want).

Sears has great deals on appliances and it a great time of year to buy them or put a fridge or dryer on layaway. Also, your mom (or hey, you!) will appreciate a gift that can be used on a regular basis.

This goes along with the last one, but for those who are looking for new furniture deals are wide open. Head over to Big Lots to find a deal on a good leather sofa. Also, if you live near an Ashley Furniture be sure to head into a store Thursday for special offers and deals to beat the crowds on Black Friday.

4) Vehicles

The best place to go car-hunting anytime of year is probably cars.com. However, check out autodiscountgroup.com for special Black Friday deals. If your local car dealership is open, be sure to head over there to check out the car you want in person.

The price of music and movies is discounted on Black Friday. The best place to go to find such deals is Wal-Mart, however if you don’t want to be trampled by the crowds then try going online instead.

Yes, people still buy real books. Sadly, there are few bookstores now but I would encourage anyone to head over to the book section in Target, Wal-Mart, or K-mart. You will be surprised by the deals on children’s books and some classics.

For those that are on Sprint or AT&T, there are holiday deals for those that may be switching to a new phone. This offer works best for those that have a contract that is about to expire. For those without a contract phone, see here.

There are baby items deals in almost every store. Target is a good place to go for kids gear. For all you babies out there: Be lucky you don’t know what’s going on, it’s a crazy time.

Had to do it. The best places for deals are Target or Macy’s, but there are plenty of shoe stores to choose from.

10) Food offers

Not junk food, but free food. Restaurants take advantage of shoppers too, with some places offering coupons for drinks and food. It's also a good time to buy gift cards for restaurants. IKEA is letting customers eat free in IKEA restaurants November 23-25.

It is understandable that many are struggling to pay for these items even if they are on sale or marked down. I suggest checking out locally-owned businesses to not only give them business, but also to find a truly unique gift that cannot be found in a department store.