You may be hoping to score some great buys during Black Friday weekend, but most shoppers know — Black Friday is not all about the deals. It’s an experience. To make sure yours is a good one, keep these tips in mind when heading to stores Thanksgiving evening or on Black Friday:

Make a plan: Don't try to hit every store that opens at 8 p.m. on Thanksgiving. If you want multiple items at different stores, enlist friends or family members to help. Or track the waves of doorbusters being offered and figure out if you can get the desired item at a different store during an earlier or later time. Plan a driving route that saves time and gas.

Know the policies: Some retailers have introduced new policies this year for Black Friday shopping. Be sure to check the details online or in-print before you go to the store. Everything from price matching to how you line up for those doorbuster deals may be subject to certain rules.

Stay informed: Get traffic and parking updates from your local news radio station or check mobile apps. Give yourself plenty of time to arrive at your destination.