Surviving the Sales

Bargain hunters have been given 11 top tips for grabbing the best deals in the sales.

Making a list before hitting the shops, using cash instead of cards and shopping on a full tummy are among the tips from the shopping experts at NetVoucherCodes.co.uk.

They say by following a few simple rules shoppers could grab some great deals, but a few false moves and those bargains may not look quite so good later in the day.

Simple tips like planning ahead, questioning whether the item is really needed and taking regular stops to refuel are among the advice given.

A spokesperson from NetVoucherCodes.co.uk said: “Keeping a clear head when shopping is important so you don’t get sucked into fake bargains.

“You want to make sure your shopping trip is enjoyable and satisfying, there’s nothing worse than coming home feeling exhausted, regretting your buys and broke after a long day.

“Many shoppers don’t end up coming home with exactly what they set out to get, so we’ve compiled a list of the best tips for a smooth, satisfying shopping experience so that you can enjoy the New Year’s sales and grab yourself some real bargains.”

Here are NetVoucherCodes.co.uk top sales shopping tips:

1. Check opening times
Before you head off sales shopping, check the opening times. Some stores open much earlier than others. Leave it until mid-morning and you may miss the best of the bargains.

2. Cash NOT card
Avoid using debit or credit cards – it’s far too easy to get carried away with them. Instead, withdraw a maximum spending value in cash. This is more likely to curb spending and help you avoid impulse buying.

3. Fill up
Make sure you have a decent breakfast before you head out shopping so you’re full of energy and ready to make a strong start. Make sure you refuel throughout the day.

4. Use public transport
Rather than battle for a parking space, take the train or bus when you head out shopping. It’ll be cheaper, easier and you won’t have the stress of fighting the crowds to get a space.

5. Do I really need it?
Before you buy, question whether you really need the item. It may have 50% off but if it’s just going to sit in a cupboard or in your wardrobe, then it’s a complete waste of money.

6. Make a plan of attack
There’s nothing wrong with doing a little forward planning to help save time and stress. Make a wish list of what you really want by having a browse online.

7. Bag up
Take plenty of big sturdy bags to help you carry your shopping load. There’s nothing worse than having lots of small plastic bag handles cutting into your forearms and fingers all day.

8. Don’t worry about other shoppers
Don’t get carried away with the crowds, if you have your goals in mind – ensure you stay on track, otherwise you may end up not finishing what you set out to do before closing time.

9. Have a breather
Take regular breaks to collect yourself, stay fed and hydrated and use these little stops to remind yourself of your wish list.

10. Learn the returns
Make sure you have a handle on the returns policy and check if you can return before you purchase.

11. Don’t get roped in
Sales are a great opportunity for many shops to rope customers into signing up to sneaky credit card schemes. These encourage over-spending and what they don’t tell you is that you’ll still be paying for the items months after buying them. THINK before you sign.