Finding Festive Sale Bargains & Savvy Shopping Tips

The festive season is synonymous with shopping and sales. While Boxing Day traditionally saw people flock to shops still merry with Christmas cheer and turkey, sales now occur in the run-up to the big day. . Online stores led the way, safe in the knowledge their sales stock offered just before Christmas Day wouldn’t arrive on time for the special occasion, but these days, there are bargains on offer in the main shopping days.

This article provides valuable tips on navigating Christmas and New Year sales. We aim to equip you with strategies for savvy shopping while keeping your finances in check.

Identifying the Best Sales

Before you hit the shops, consider the following steps that will help you find the best bargains without breaking the bank.

• Utilise Price Tracking Tools: Leverage technology to track price changes. Tools like CamelCamelCamel for Amazon and Honey for various online retailers can alert you to price drops, historical price trends, and offer coupons.
• Follow Retailer Social Media & Newsletters: Retailers often announce exclusive deals on their social media platforms or to newsletter subscribers. Following them can often give you early access to sales.
• Understand Sale Cycles: Different products have different sale cycles. For instance, electronics may have better discounts during Black Friday, while January might be ideal for fitness gear. Understanding these patterns can help you time your purchases.
• Be Aware of ‘Sale Psychology’: Retailers often use tactics like limited-time offers to create urgency. Recognise these tactics and avoid making rushed decisions.
• Inspect Sale Items Thoroughly: In-store, examine sale items for defects or missing parts. Online, read reviews to understand the product’s quality and longevity.
• Leverage Cashback and Reward Points: Use cashback websites or credit cards with rewards programs to earn back a portion of your spending.
• Create a Wishlist: Before sales start, create a wishlist of items you need. This helps avoid impulse buys and focuses your search during sales.
• Use Price Match Guarantees: Some retailers offer price match guarantees. If you find a lower price for the same product elsewhere, they may match it.

Smart Shopping Strategies

You can enhance your chances of find a great deal, while minimising inconvenience returning items by using these smart shopping strategies:

• Leverage Digital Receipts: Many stores now offer digital receipts. Opting for these can help you keep track of purchases without the clutter of paper receipts. Digital receipts are also harder to lose and easier to access for returns or warranty claims.
• Familiarise Yourself with Extended Holiday Return Policies: Some retailers extend their return policies around the holidays. Knowing these can give you more flexibility with returns or exchanges.
• Be Cautious with Final Sale Items: Understand that items marked as ‘final sale’ may not be returnable or exchangeable. Always double-check before purchasing such items.
• Use Virtual Fitting Rooms: For online clothing shopping, use virtual fitting room services where available. These tools can help you gauge how a garment will fit without trying it on physically.
• Take Advantage of Credit Card Perks: Beyond consumer protection, some credit cards offer extended warranty, price protection, or return protection. These features can provide additional value and security for your online purchases.

Budget Management and Financial Control

Of course, your ability to find the best deals and bargains at this time of year, is limited by your budget and financial restrictions. You shouldn’t put yourself in financial difficulties at Christmas (or anytime of year, although the temptation is higher during the festive period), and following these budget management and financial control tips will help you make smart decisions that set you up for a great New Year.

• Use Budgeting Apps: Leverage modern technology by using budgeting apps. These apps can track your spending in real-time, categorise expenses, and even set alerts when you’re nearing your budget limit.
• Implement the 50/30/20 Rule: Allocate 50% of your income to necessities, 30% to wants, and 20% to savings or debt repayment. This rule can help balance your festive spending while ensuring financial responsibilities are met.
• Question Every Purchase: Before buying, ask yourself, “Do I need this, or do I want this?” This simple question can be a powerful tool to avoid impulse purchases.
• Delay Non-Essential Purchases: For items that are not urgent, set a waiting period (e.g., 48 hours). If you still feel it’s necessary after the waiting period, then consider purchasing it.
• Track Price Drops for Wanted Items: If there are specific items you wish to purchase, track their prices over time. This can help you identify true discounts versus marketing gimmicks.

If you feel as though budgeting is an issue where you need guidance, be it at Christmas or any time of year,  check out our basics of budgeting guide, which provides you with a step-by-step guide on managing your money.

Leveraging One Stop Money Shop’s Expertise

At The One Stop Money Shop, our role as an established and independent lender goes beyond offering loans; we provide guidance to help you navigate seasonal financial demands smartly. Our bespoke loan options are designed with flexibility to cater to your unique festive spending needs. Moreover, we offer insights into effective financial management during the winter season, ensuring you make informed decisions. 

For a comprehensive understanding of managing finances during this period, our guide on Winter Loans is an invaluable resource, offering detailed strategies to maintain financial stability while enjoying the festive season.

Savvy shopping during the festive season involves a strategic approach to discover amazing deals. By using these tips, you can navigate the sales, so you secure the best purchases within your financial means. It’s about striking the right balance between indulging in the festive spirit and practising financial prudence. 

At One Stop Money Shop, our commitment goes beyond financial services..We provide insightful advice, helping you make informed decisions that align with your economic well-being during this busy season.