We’re just several days before Black Friday’s amazing deals. This is the high time to get ready to take advantage of the best Black Friday deals and knowing where to look for them is what could make the day a complete success…or a frustrating failure.

In 2012, Black Friday starts early. Based on the schedules retailers announced, you’re going to have to make a run for it. Most likely still stuffed from all that Thanksgiving Day dinner you’ll be waiting in line for Target and Walmart to open doors earlier for Black Friday. So, it’s best you know what deals to look for to make the most of the holiday time.

First of all you need to know the opening hours for Black Friday. It’s earlier this year, so be sure you’re planning your discount shopping accordingly. Kmart, Sears, Target, Old Navy, Toys ‘R’ Us and Walmart will open stores on Thanksgiving Day according to a chart on the Deal News website.

Be sure you know beforehand what kind of deals Black Friday has to offer. Expert Black Friday websites warn that some deals are not as great as they look. For instance TVs and cameras have better prices in February, while buying toys on Black Friday won’t save you as much money as Christmas discount deals will.

If you’re planning a trip to the Toys ‘R’ Us stores on Black Friday, the retailer is giving away $30 goody bags with products by Disney, Crayola and Lego. But only the first 200 people in line will be that lucky. Target opens at 9 p.m. on Thanksgiving Day and has buster specials set for 4 a.m.

When it comes to electronics on Black Friday, the general advice is to check the actual discounts thoroughly, since you might find a better price at a different retailer. For instance, Walmart is selling a refurb Samsung Galaxy Tab 2 7” 8GB Android tablet for $150 and it also throws in free shipping. Deal News writes it’s the “lowest total price we’ve seen for this tablet. (It’s also $49 under the lowest total price we could find for a new one).