Black Friday is around the corner, but who's counting? Well, I am, and I guess a lot of people are too.

If it is to buy those clothes saved in your favorites for ages or a new gadget, discounts are always welcome.

However, this crazy promotion day or, in some cases, weeks or the whole month, can be tricky, so you need to be prepared to make the most out of it without entering the discount fever and getting compulsive.

So here are four tips that can help you survive with a healthy wallet.

1. Make a list and stick to a budget

When you start to hear the word discount, it suddenly seems you need everything, but what are the priorities? What do you really need to buy, and how much can you spend?

Establish a budget and make a list of what you must buy, and save space for one or two guilty pleasure items. Then, stick to it, and it will help you to stay in control and resist the discount fever.

2. Do your research

To take advantage of Black Friday, you need to do a bit of research in the weeks before.

Go to your favorite retailers' websites and check the prices regularly so you can note the changes. This way, when the time comes, you can decide if it's a good deal or if you can find a better one elsewhere.

Also, check the store policies to avoid buying someone a Christmas present in November and then realize you only have 15 days to return.

Finally, to get information firsthand or additional discounts, follow your favorite brands on social media and subscribe to their newsletters.

3. Start early

Don't wait until the 27th of November. Be aware that Black Friday is not just a day for a few years now.

A lot of retailers have been starting to launch promotions up to one or two weeks before the big day, and some of them even have discounts threw the month.

So, you better hurry because sometimes the best deals are not on the official day but before it. Also, on the day, websites and stores get crowded, and sometimes the items you want get "out of stock" in a blink without you have time to reach it.

4. Shop online

Things can go pretty crazy in stores, so what about shopping online? You can do it on your couch in your pajamas. Is something better than this?

I think that this year, more than ever, buying online is the best strategy. It's comfiest, safest, and since the retailers are aware of the times we're living in, I believe you'll find the best deals on your screen. Be aware that a lot of the retailers are launching a 100% online Black Friday.

As a final note, in addition to wishing you good shopping, I remind you not to forget Cyber Monday, which will happen on the 30th of November. It's also a day full of online discounts, especially in the tech area.