Once Christmas is done and dusted, there’s only thing on most people’s minds: the Boxing Day and January sales.
Forget those presents you received only a few days ago, there’s a few things you’ve had your eye on for a while.
But before you know it, you’ve ended up coming home with things of things you didn’t intend to buy.
Tashema Jackson, money expert at uSwitch.com, tells Metro.co.uk: ‘Every year retailers up and down the country will be offering reductions and markdowns on essential to luxury items, as last season’s must haves are replaced with the new season’s trends.’
So how do you avoid the traps when shopping the January sales and find yourself a bargain that really is, well, a bargain?
Here are Tashema’s top tips on making the most the New Year sales:
Do your research
‘The January sales can be hectic so it is easy to get caught up in things and be drawn into believing that every offer is a great deal.
‘By spending a little time doing some research beforehand, you will be better equipped to spot the great deals from the average ones.’
The price, not the saving
‘It can be easy to be seduced by the savings on offer, especially on higher end goods which typically cost more and therefore are likely to offer a bigger saving.
‘If you’re tempted to make a purchase, stop and consider the actual price of the item you are buying, and whether it’s a good deal or not.’
Voucher codes
‘Before hitting the shops, it’s worth checking a few websites to see if your favourite shops have any discount vouchers available you can use in store.
‘Many retailers will also offer free delivery to shoppers during the sales period – so keep your eyes peeled.’
Compare
‘If you’re shopping online, compare prices at different retailers. You may find that prices vary and that you can get an even better deal elsewhere.
‘You can also do this if you are on the high street by checking other retailers’ websites before you commit to the purchase.
‘If you do find it cheaper elsewhere, don’t be afraid to ask for a price match.
‘Many high street shops will match a competitor’s prices, in order to ensure you buy it from them.’
More: Fashion
The early shopper gets the best deal
‘As with all sales, there is limited stock available so those who start shopping earlier could find better deals and more size choices available.
‘But fear not, this doesn’t mean you have to be up at the crack of dawn, and fighting off the crowds.
‘You can do your shopping early online, and in some instances reserve it at your local store to pick up later that day.
‘So set your alarm, make a cup of tea and get your January sales shopping done in your pyjamas.
‘Increasingly some retailers will allow you to sign up to a VIP first look at sale items.
‘If there is something you are really keen on, it could be worth finding out if your favourite shop offers this service.’
Returns policy
‘Always check the returns policy just in case you regret your purchase the next day.
‘Although the majority of shops will allow you to exchange or refund non-faulty returns, they are not required to do so by law – also some retailers will have different rules for items on sale.
‘If your purchase is faulty, you are entitled to a refund. You’ve 30 days to return it and get your money back.’
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