Though the big shopping weekend of Black Friday and Cyber Monday has come and gone, are there still sales to be found this holiday season?
The short answer: yes!
Consumers shouldn't fret, as the month of December comes with its own set of sales, discounts, and special offers that are perfect to check everyone off their holiday shopping lists.
To help consumers navigate the next phase of holiday shopping, ConsumerAffairs got expert insight from Julie Ramhold, a consumer analyst with DealNews.
What are the best buys of December?
All of the best sales aren’t gone just because the major shopping events are. There are still tons of things to save on this holiday season, including:
Holiday Decor: “Specifically in the after Christmas sales, we'll see deep discounts on holiday decor,” Ramhold said. “Expect immediate savings around 70% off, though discounts will get better over time. The biggest issue is that these items will sell out quickly after the holidays, so if you have something in particular you're eyeing, it's best to get it while you can rather than risk waiting for a bigger discount and missing out altogether.”
Fall Clothing: “Winter is on the horizon and so fall clothing will see deep discounts in December. If you're looking for things like stylish boots, jeans, and sweaters, there's a good chance we'll see discounts reaching 60% off or more, as well as items being part of BOGO promotions, too,” Ramhold explained.
Gift cards: “December is when a ton of retailers and restaurants offer promotions around gift cards with names like ‘give one, get one,’” Ramhold said. “Basically, it's common to see things like buy $25 in gift cards and receive a $5 bonus gift card for free. Or buy $50 in gift cards and receive a $10 bonus gift card for free. The gift cards themselves won't expire, but the bonus cards typically have very specific redemption periods, so be sure to read the fine print on these deals. High-end restaurants may also participate, but the required purchases are usually more expensive in those cases, such as $250 in gift cards or something similar. Even so, these deals are great for stretching your dollar and are worth seeking out to treat yourself or others.”
Toys: It’s not too late to get the best toys of the season – without paying full price. Ramhold offered three top tips for saving on toys this holiday season:
Shop around. “Be sure to look at standard retailers like Target and Walmart, but also check stores like Best Buy and department stores for toy deals as well,” Ramhold said.
Buy sooner than later. “If you're shopping off of one of the ‘hottest toy’ lists of the year, it's better to buy sooner rather than later, as there's a good chance these items will be more likely to sell out faster. Ask yourself how important it is to get a discount on the item – it may be a better idea to grab it with minimal savings just to have it rather than risk waiting for a discount and not being able to get it, or having to buy it from a third-party at a huge markup.”
Shop stores with price guarantees. “With Black Friday over, stores will be honoring their price matching policies again, so be sure to check and see if a retailer you want to shop at offers a perk like this before deciding where to pick up that coveted toy.”
What should you skip this December?
When it comes to the worst buys of December, the answers may not come as a surprise. Ramhold recommends that consumers hold out on purchasing anything exercise-related – including equipment or clothing – during the month, as well as winter clothes.
The new year is likely to hold the best deals on these items, and waiting just a few more weeks will help you save more money than making the purchase right away.
What about Green Monday?
We’ve heard about Black Friday and Cyber Monday, but what about Green Monday?
Green Monday started in 2007 on eBay, and it refers to the second Monday in December – one of the busiest shopping days of the year. It’s become synonymous with the last-minute hustle of buying holiday gifts, as well as the last push of holiday sales.
This year, Green Monday is Monday, December 11, and there will be deals to score in the final push to the holidays.
“Green Monday is thought of as the last day to shop online and have your orders arrive in time for Christmas,” Ramhold said. “In general, we see discounts ranging from 20% to 60% off, though some may be higher.
“The biggest thing to keep in mind is that you shouldn't assume a Green Monday sale will indeed be the last chance to shop online and receive items in a timely manner. Be sure to check any online retailers you're considering ordering from for their specific deadlines to make sure you order in plenty of time.”
Photo Credit: Consumer Affairs News Department Images
Posted: 2023-11-29 12:13:35
