IF heading to the Boxing Day sales is as festive for you as mince pies and the Queen’s speech, then you’ll want to read on for some top tips to make the most of this retail tradition. Many stores open early, offer huge discounts on everything from electronic consumer goods to fashion and homewares, and town centres are still buzzing with festive markets and feel-good seasonal songs – what’s not to love?!
Here at UKMums.tv we’re always up for a good bargain hunt, so we’ve compiled a list of our top tips for how to be a savvy Boxing Day sales shopper.
- Write a list – Without knowing what you actually need you could end up succumbing to some serious sale spending regret – so write a list and then stick to it. TOP TIP: Check the usual RRP well before the sales started so you don’t get caught out by cheeky ‘sale’ prices that aren’t as much of a bargain as they sound.
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- Plan of attack – It’s obvious, but check opening times in case it’s different during the holiday season, remember to take cash for parking and don’t forget other need-to-knows like baby change locations or if there are any access issues for wheelchair users.
- With or without kids? This is a toughie! Sale rails and Boxing Day crowds are no place for little ones, but chances are your childcare options are limited during the holiday season. But don’t despair – you can still take advantage of the sales online! TOP TIP: If childcare isn’t an option, why not plan in advance to go with friends and take it in turns to watch the kids while you each hit your favourite store?
- Dress for sale success – Freezing early starts, hot and stuffy dressing rooms, miles of traipsing across busy malls…There is an art to the perfect shopping trip outfit, and we’re yet to master it, to be honest. Usually comfy shoes, layers and a small bag or purse should do the trick. Remember to beware of shoplifters and keep your bags fastened and in sight at all times. Bonus for the parents – buggies double up as great coat and bag carriers!
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- Be a pit stop pro – In the mad rush to hit the sales early, it’s easy to forget drinks and snacks but they’re essential to avoid long café queues or even flaking out before you’ve finished! Fill up with a good breakfast before you go, stay hydrated and carry a few slow release energy snacks to keep you going.
- Carpe diem! Whilst it’s true the sales last more than one day, stocks are notoriously quick to run down and popular sizes or good deals are usually snapped up quick. But if you’ve followed our list and planned ahead you should know exactly what the best deals are and when to strike.
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If all that sounds a bit too much like hard work, remember the wonderful world of internet shopping – you can even fill your ‘shopping bag’ in advance and then just log in to check if the prices have dropped. There are also some cunning coupon code apps you can use to reduce the cost of your shop or get money off delivery. All from the comfort of your sofa!
All that’s left is to shop ‘til you drop! Have fun and share your tips, bargains and shopping selfies with us on social media @UKMumsTV or Facebook.