"[We] probably save several hundred dollars shopping," explained Lisa, who is a seasoned Black Friday shopper. "We have three sons and they always want big electronic items."

Thanks to her thrifty online pre-planning, Stackpole said she was able to get those sought-after big ticket items. "Then I start making a list. Always have a trusty list," she advised. "We always get the papers, and I spent about three hours last night going through those, looking for a better deal than what I already got on paper."

Shoppers suggested another big must-have for early shopping is lots and lots of coffee.

"We get a lot of frappe mochas, mocha freezes, a lot of regular coffees," said Brett Imperial, manager of Seattle's Best Coffee, which opened at 5 a.m. "Not much decaf going on. Nobody wants decaf at 4 o'clock in the morning."

Being properly dressed can also make a difference between freezing in the lines outside, and overheating from carrying your loot.

"You gotta have running shoes," urged Stackpole. "You gotta stay warm, you gotta know if you're gonna be hot, can't wear heavy clothing." Even the kids learned a thing or two about surviving Black Friday.

"Come early, because there are long lines," said Marcie Corder, who was shopping with her mom and sisters.

"There's a lot more people and it's crowded more," noticed Cody Johnson on his first Black Friday morning.

And finally, this simple rule can make sure everyone stays in the holiday spirit.

"I think the most important thing people need to realize is have good manners," said Calvin Stackpole. "There's no need to be rude. The experience would be more enjoyable for everyone."