Once the festive season is over, the January sales begin and itβs the best time of year to go shopping. Bargains are on every shop shelf so everyone will be hunting for the best deals. If youβre thinking of making some New Yearβs Resolutions to decorate the home, or maybe youβre looking to get your Christmas shopping out of the way a year in advance, here are some great tips to get the best experience out of this busy shopping period. 
Planning Ahead
The first and foremost thing about sales shopping is not to go crazy. Only buy what you really need, and itβs a good plan to have an idea about what that is. At some point before you plan on going shopping, make a list of things that you could possibly need. Go around the house and through your wardrobe to see if anythingβs missing or needs replacing. Maybe look at shopsβ online stores for the products they have. Itβs also a good idea to have a budget in mind so you donβt end up going overboard with your spending and come home a lot unhappier than when you went out.
Bring a Friend
Shopping by yourself can result in some pointless or silly purchases if you donβt have a second opinion to hand. Bringing a friend can really help being as theyβll be able to share their opinion and maybe sway your decisions in the right direction. Donβt go buying a top that two sizes too small just because itβs 50% off! Plus, itβs nice to have some company when shopping.
Getting What You Want
If you come across an absolute bargain, but itβs not in your size or itβs not quite right, donβt be afraid to ask a shop assistant to check the stockroom or call nearby stores. Thereβs no point ending up with something you donβt really want. In desperate situations, particularly in the case of clothes, check the back of rails or the floor. Other shoppers tend to hide what they might come back for!
Online Shopping
The sales always spread to online stores too. If you canβt handle the crowds, shop from the comfort of your own home. Websites like Amazon and eBay are great for finding deals. This is great for furniture shopping too if youβre looking to redecorate. You can find great deals on beds, sofas and all kinds of stuff for the home around this time of year.
Buying for Next Year
A lot of people will call you silly for doing this, but youβll be the one laughing when you did your Christmas shopping 11 months early. Honestly, this is the best time to buy cards, crackers, even presents for next Christmas. Obviously, there is the risk that you could buy for someone and theyβre not interested in that anymore. Itβs better to buy practical presents. For example, if you know a mum with a young baby, buy clothes for them in the size that youβll know the baby will be by next Christmas. Theyβll be super cheap and you wonβt have to stress or fret come next Christmas. Get ready to get those Christmas gift vouchers out!
