your money
With shops starting their sales earlier and earlier every year, read our expert guide on bagging the best bargains…
Sales can be a brilliant chance to spend less when snapping up stuff you really need. Save a bundle with our top tips, and find out how to sort out the genuine bargains from the dodgy discounts, and avoid the temptation to overspend.
Early opportunities
Sales are creeping ever earlier, from the traditional January sales to bargains on Boxing Day and even pre-Christmas discounts. Look out for last-minute supplies for this Christmas, such as wrapping paper, Christmas cards, crackers and decorations, or get ahead for next year.
Make a list
Write a list of what you really need, then stick to it. January sales can be a good time to save on larger items if, for example, your fridge freezer is on its last legs, you really need a new printer, or your winter coat needs replacing.
Plan ahead
Don’t just think about things you need to buy right now, but stuff that will help later. Surprise, surprise, birthdays show up at the same time every year. Pick up long ‐lasting presents in sales when you can pay less.
Focus on the price, not the discount
Don’t be blinded by promises of huge percentage discounts. Even if something is 70 per cent off, you are still spending the other 30 per cent. Weigh up, for example, whether a cheaper item at full price might be less expensive than a reduced designer option. As a reality check, think about whether you’d buy it at full price. If you definitely would, it could be well worth snapping up for less. If you’d never consider paying the normal price, do you really want it?
