Simple strategies for navigating the holiday shopping season

By Carrie Dunlea

The Thanksgiving leftovers may barely be packed away before another holiday tradition begins: shopping. From Black Friday bargains to Small Business Saturday finds and Cyber Monday deals, the days following Thanksgiving offer plenty of opportunities to check names off holiday gift lists.

But with so many sales, promotions and limited time offers competing for attention, finding a genuine bargain isn’t always as simple as spotting a bright red sale sign.

A little preparation can go a long way toward stretching holiday dollars, avoiding impulse purchases and making the shopping season more enjoyable.

Make a list, check it twice

Before browsing sales or heading to the stores, make a list of everyone you’re shopping for, along with gift ideas and a realistic spending limit for each person. Include wrapping supplies, shipping costs and other holiday expenses that can quickly add up.

Keeping a running total of purchases helps prevent surprises when the credit card statement arrives. And while an unexpected bargain can be tempting, remember that buying something you don’t need isn’t saving money, no matter how steep the discount.

Know a deal when you see one

Not every advertised markdown represents a significant savings. Retailers frequently promote limited-time discounts, but the best way to recognize a bargain is to know what an item normally costs.

Start researching prices before Thanksgiving, particularly for electronics, appliances and other big-ticket purchases. Price-tracking tools such as CamelCamelCamel can show historical Amazon prices, while shopping resources such as Honey and Slickdeals can help identify discounts and promotions.

Knowing an item’s typical price makes it easier to distinguish genuine savings from clever marketing.

Compare before you commit

Black Friday, Small Business Saturday and Cyber Monday each bring different promotions, but the lowest advertised price isn’t necessarily the best overall value.

Compare prices at several retailers and factor in shipping charges, return policies and any additional discounts. Digital circulars and shopping apps such as Flipp can help shoppers compare advertised specials without visiting multiple stores.

For expensive purchases, take a few minutes to read product reviews and check specifications. A discounted item isn’t a bargain if it doesn’t meet your needs.

Shop online with care

Online shopping offers convenience, but the holiday rush also creates opportunities for misleading advertisements and fraudulent websites.

Before purchasing from an unfamiliar retailer, check the website address, look for independent customer reviews and review the company’s contact information and return policy. Be especially cautious of social media advertisements promoting unusually low prices on popular merchandise.

Whenever possible, use a credit card that offers purchase protections, and avoid clicking links in unsolicited messages claiming that a package cannot be delivered or that an order requires immediate attention.

Think small, shop local

Holiday shopping doesn’t have to revolve around crowded big-box stores or online shopping carts.

Small Business Saturday, observed the Saturday after Thanksgiving, offers an opportunity to explore locally owned boutiques, gift shops and specialty retailers. From handmade goods and home accessories to unique gifts and specialty foods, independent businesses often carry items that are harder to find elsewhere.

Shopping locally also gives customers a chance to ask questions, receive personal recommendations and discover gifts they might otherwise overlook.

And while independent retailers may not always compete with national chains on price, personal service, distinctive merchandise and convenience can add value to a purchase.

Leave room for a little joy

Holiday shopping should be about finding thoughtful gifts, not winning a race to the checkout counter. Starting early, setting reasonable expectations and avoiding the pressure of every flash sale can make the experience less stressful.

Whether you’re browsing downtown shops, searching online or picking up a few last-minute surprises, the smartest holiday purchases are those that fit your budget and bring a little happiness to the people on your list.

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