How to Survive the Boxing Day Sales
Christmas is over and shops nationwide are slashing their prices as mega high street price wars get underway. But with millions of people hitting the stores up and down the country, how can you ensure you get everything you need – and survive the chaos?
Be organised
Don’t wander aimlessly into town weaving your way through the crowds. Make sure you adopt a targeted approach and know which shops have sales and what time they start. You will shop much more effectively that way. Check the websites of each shop for full information on times. Do your research before you set out so you know exactly what kinds of things you are looking for and target exact products. Spend time checking the websites of your favourite shops so you know which items to keep an eye out for. If you’re looking for clothes, take a look at your wardrobe before you go and see where the gaps are so everything you buy is useful.
Be early
The earlier the better in order to get the pick of the best stock. Some shops will have long queues outside so you might have to arrive before official opening hours if you really want the best bargains.
Never crouch
Much like being on a packed train during your commute. You need to maintain a firm centre of gravity at all times during Boxing Day Sales. Legs shoulder width apart, knees slightly bent. Crouch at your peril, because one knock from the sales-savages around you and you’ll be down. Death by trampling in Selfridges is arguably one of the classier ways to go, but it’s still not ideal.
Don’t bother trying things on
Queues for the fitting room will be extra long and extra stressful so save time by sizing up the item without trying it on. Wear layers so that you can put tops/jackets/knitwear over the top of the clothes you are wearing. That way you won’t roast in the hot stores either.
Be decisive
If in doubt pick it up and hold onto it! You can spend time deciding while you are walking around the shop looking at other things, or even in the queue – but you don’t want to left disappointed when the shopper next to you takes advantage of your dithering.
Visit the more expensive shops
The best savings in sales can be made on luxury items so look out for leather jackets, cashmere scarves and high quality bath towels. It’s these products that are really worth hunting down as they are good quality, will last and will be investment buys.
Don’t buy for the sake of it
There’s a tendency to grab anything in sight, just because it’s on sale but it’s important to think clearly and calmly about whether you are making a saving. Something that will go straight in the cupboard and never see the light of day is only going to clutter up your house. And it is certainly not a bargain if you never use it. If it’s clothing, try to imagine if the item will go with what you already have at home – if you’re struggling to pair it with more than one item, it’s not worth it.
Buy for next Christmas
Shop specifically for things for next Christmas like cards, wrapping paper and presents. Stock up on presents for next Christmas and birthdays throughout the year and next by buying gift boxes – they will be vastly reduced.
Shop online
If you can’t face any of this then simply sit back and shop Boxing Day Sales from the comfort of your sofa. No crowds, no queues and no fighting with other shoppers. You’re likely to spend less too.
