Black Friday, like Thanksgiving, might seem like a wild moment of excess and unbridled consumerism. If you’re smart about your shopping, however, you might just make it out with a healthy wallet and mind, that brand new thing you wanted, and barely a scuff on your shoe.

These tips will make sure that you get in and out like a smooth criminal (a paying smooth criminal, that is) and avoid the hassle.

1. Never fly solo

While Black Friday violence has been steadily decreasing in the last few years, it’s still a rowdy experience for everyone. Crazed bargain hunters won’t care that you’re standing between them and their discounted items, so bringing a couple of friends with you will make any shopper think twice before getting shove-happy to get that new video game console. Safety in numbers!

2. Learn how to let go

It might seem like an oddly Zen piece of advice for Black Friday, but remember that, in the end, all of this is just stuff. Is a bargain really worth getting a black eye or a public disturbance fine? It’s true that getting that fantastically low-priced stuff is the whole point of Black Friday, but in the end, it is just stuff.

3. Do some scouting beforehand

It’s always easier to maneuver in familiar territory, so visiting the store a few hours before the sale begins can let you know exactly where the thing you want is and what is the fastest route there. Don’t get distracted by other bargains around you, and remember that you still might have to race some people to get there, so stretch a little before you hit the ground running.

4. Beware of sticky fingers

It’s sad, but such a large gathering of people with pockets full of cash and bags full of shiny new possessions is sure to attract some thieves — or at the very least, pickpockets. Stick to well-illuminated sidewalks, beware of motorcycles, travel in groups and keep your belongings secure in a backpack or large, unmarked bags. If possible, avoid using public transportation to and from the store.

5. Children are a no-go.

While Black Friday might be the perfect time to scratch all those toys out of your Christmas shopping list, bringing children to the arena is never a good idea. Not only will they slow you down, but they can also get lost or hurt among such a big crowd. If you must bring children with you, never lose sight of them and remember that their safety comes before any bargain.

6. Credit can be your friend.

Using credit in a shopping spree might go against everything you’ve been taught as a cautious shopper, but some credit card companies offer  better return protection than most stores (such as guaranteed refund for up to 90 days). This comes in especially handy if you try to circumvent most retailers’ famously tight refund policies on Black Friday sales items.

7. Carry ads and coupons to secure the best deals

Not only should you make sure you’re taking home the item you went for, but you might also be able to price-match some other ones when visiting a different store (although there might be some restrictions with doorbuster sales). Likewise, scour your spam folder to see if any retailer has emailed you a coupon you can scan at the store, and pile up those savings!

8. That smart TV might not be a smart purchase

Even if you do manage to find big electronics marked down enough to be considered a Black Friday sale, the hassle of getting it in the midst of such a big rush in the store might change your mind about it. And again, the prices on them are usually not worth the energy (and fuel, and time) spent. Be patient, a better discount on electronics will pop up on that same item soon.

9. Have an escape plan

Your shopping is done. You got everything you came for and maybe a little extra. Now what? A store’s parking lot during Black Friday rush might look and feel like a destruction derby, so finding a parking spot somewhere with a little less traffic, even if it’s further away, might save you time in the end. And if someone’s picking you up, make sure to meet them outside the shopping crowd’s event horizon, so to speak. With Thanksgiving and Black Friday on the horizon, don’t hesitate to get help cleaning your home with professionals, so you don’t add any more stress to your holiday season.