NRF’s Top 10 Tips for Smart Holiday Shopping

1. Shop after 6:00 p.m. the evening before a sale is advertised to begin. Many retailers program the registers the night before, so the sale may already come up in the register even if they have not changed out signs on the selling floor yet. Ask the associate in advance for any possible upcoming sales, especially on big ticket items.
2. Prepare a list to use while you are shopping. Make sure to include alternative selections in case you are unable to find some of the items on your list.
3. Avoid crowds by shopping during stores’ early and late extended hours.
4. If you are looking for specific advertised items, take the complete ad with you so that you don’t end up in the wrong store looking for a specific price.
5. Staple a gift receipt to the merchandise tag in case it needs to be returned or exchanged. Keep your original receipts with any warranty paperwork for the life of the warranty.
6. Remember when gift shopping you are buying for someone else’s wants and needs, not your own. But don’t be afraid to take full advantage holiday promotions treat yourself to something nice!