Get more bang for your buck from the post-Christmas sales

Stick to a budget

Most of us have wish lists longer than our budgets. So, it’s a good idea to know how much you can afford before you start shopping. If you spend more than you’ve budgeted, it can mean paying interest on purchases and that will eat into any savings you’ve made.

If you’re buying online, make sure you note any exchange rates, shipping rates and the cost of returns if your items don’t fit, otherwise all your hard work will go to waste.

Make the most of gift vouchers

If you’ve been given gift vouchers as a Christmas pressie, using them in the sales will give you more bang for your buck.  

Avoid credit

If you must pay interest on your purchases, then you’re not saving money in the long run. If you do use your credit card (to gain rewards points, for example) make sure you pay off the amount straight away, or before the due date.  

Make a list

Smart sales shopping is about buying what you need (or something you have had your eye on but can’t quite afford) at a reduced price. So, start by writing a list. It could be Christmas and birthday gifts for next year or that fabulous sofa you’ve been dreaming about.  

Be prepared beforehand

Make sure you have everyone’s shoe and clothing sizes, and space measurements (for furniture and appliances) before you start shopping. There’s nothing more annoying than bagging a brilliant bargain only to find it doesn’t fit.  

Do your research

For clothing, make sure you check the store’s returns policy on sale items (especially if you don’t try things on in the store). You could be stuck with something that doesn’t fit and has been a complete waste of money. While stores legally have to offer a return for faulty items, they do not have to accept a return just because you change your mind, or something doesn’t fit.

For furniture and/or appliances, create a shortlist of potential brands/styles or models. This means doing some online research before the sales start. You can decide which exact products you're looking for so you don't have to spend time comparing on the actual day, and missing out.

Extra shopping sale tips:

• Retailers use the old, recommended retail price (RRP) when marking down items; this is the value of item when it was first released and is not necessarily its current value.
• Don’t buy clothes based on price alone! It may be designer, but it’s not a bargain if you don’t wear it!
• Retailers often highlight savings in red to catch your eye, but it may not be the brilliant deal you think it is.