HOLIDAY TIPS: Shopping Smarts

Although all the Black Friday madness has come and gone, heading to the shops will remain an overwhelming task until the end of the holiday season.

Parking lots and store aisles often will be packed during peak shopping hours, and store shelves may be missing that one item for which you’re searching. And suddenly, the season of joy can spiral into a one of despair.

However, by employing 10 simple tips from the National Retail Federation, you can alleviate much of the stress of holiday shopping.

1. Timing is everything. Shop after 6 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. Plan of attack. 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 the crowds. Hitting the shops during their early and late extended hours can help you sidestep some of the masses.

4. Keep your records. 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.

5. Shop safely. Watch your personal belongings at all times — including handbags and purchases. The stores are not responsible for any lost items, so be careful, especially at the register.

6. It’s a wrap. Save yourself the headache: Let the charity group at the mall wrap your gifts for you. This will save you a lot of time and free you up to do other things on your list.

7. Best foot forward. Wear comfortable shoes. You’ll be walking on a lot of marble, concrete and tile, so those high heels just won’t do.

8. Making a note. Make sure you have personal credit card information available at home in the event you lose a credit card while shopping. Important back-up information includes customer service phone numbers, PIN numbers and account numbers.

9. Be vigilant. Make sure to stash your cash in a safe place within a wallet while shopping. When paying with cash at the register, only pull out of your wallet what the amount totals, not the entire stash.

10. In the parking lot. When parking in a large parking lot, make sure to keep all items in the trunk of the car and out of sight. It also helps to park near a light if you know you it will be dark by the time you are done. Make a note of the nearest security office or officers.
 

Click here to view our 2011 Holiday Gift Guide.