While there are certainly good deals to be had, the best advice from this bargain shopper is to avoid spending money on “sales” and instead focus shopping efforts on “saving” if you’re out Dec. 26.
The day after Christmas is an excellent time to stock up for next year on items such as gift wrap, ornaments and other decorations. Most stores will start slashing prices to at least 50 percent Sunday, and inventories will sell quickly.
The items that usually draw me out to the store on the Black Friday sequel are what I like to call “quick gifts” — pre-packaged body care items, candles, snack sets, picture frames and toys. At 50 percent off, snag some of these items and store them in your closet for future birthdays, holidays and gift exchanges. The recipient will never know you got it on clearance, especially if you switch out some of the items and make your own custom gift basket with your finds.
Items such as TVs, clothes and electronics can most likely be found cheaper if you wait. Many shopping analysts peg Black Friday or the weeks leading up to the Super Bowl as the best time to find a deal on a TV, so shop for your new LCD, LED or plasma TV then. The best deals on clothes can be found after the New Year as retailers begin clearing out winter items for spring inventory.
Target and JCPenney are offering some of their discounts online already, with more sales launching online today. Shopping online removes the temptation of getting more than you planned since you won’t be spurred by sale signs and tantalizing displays.
But the most fiscal decision you can make with all that Christmas gift dough is to save it, pay off the holiday bills and stay snuggled in at home sharing Christmas cookies with family and friends.
Have a Merry Christmas!
For more daily bargains, savings tips and freebies visit the Here’s the Deal blog online at middletownjournal.com/go/bargains (journal-news.com/go/bargains).
Have a tip for Jessica? E-mail her at jheffner@coxohio.com.
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