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Top
tips for your Christmas shopping
Shop
around
Take
your time to find the best price. Is there a chance the item
could be reduced in the after-Christmas sales? If so, consider
a gift token.
Take your
time
Be
sure it is the right choice. If it is the latest craze, will
the novelty wear off by January? If it is an item of clothing
will it fit and is it fashionable? Look out for fire and safety
warnings, particularly on toys, nightwear and dressing up
clothes.
Added
extras
Do not be pushed into paying for extras you do not want. Shops
often try to sell extended warranties that will add to the
cost.
Receipts
Will you get a receipt which says what you have
bought, where, when and how much you paid?
Fakes
Are you sure it is the real thing? Has the packaging
been opened or replaced? Is the quality what you would expect
- check printed logos, stitching etc. Is
everything you would expect included, for example, instructions,
attachments, guarantees, care and country of manufacture labels?
Unwanted
gifts
Before you buy, ask the shop if the items can
be returned. Will you be able to get a refund or just an exchange?
What if the person who receives the gift wants to take it
back? Ask
what you need to keep in case of return e.g. receipt, packaging.
Is there a time limit for returning goods?
Bargains
galore
Beware when buying from car boot sales. Look out for fire
and safety labels, particularly on clothing and toys. Check
carefully for wear, damage and repairs. Be prepared to bargain
for a lower price.
Does
it work?
Check when you get home, particularly if it is a gift. Remember,
if it is faulty, you are entitled to a refund so long as you
act quickly.
Batteries
Put them on your shopping list and make sure you
include them with gifts. Buy spares, it could save a lot of
hassle on Christmas Day!
Store
cards
If you are offered a discount for taking out a store card,
remember that this could end up costing more if you are not
able to pay it off straightaway.
Cash
Pay exactly the price quoted. Plan what you are going to buy
next.
Credit
Interest charges will bump up the cost. You may still be paying
for this year's presents next Christmas. If it is buy now,
pay later, you will have to make sure you pay off the full
amount on time to avoid charges. You could be in trouble if
you cannot keep up the payments.
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