Everything you need to know about the 2018 Boxing Day sales

It’s that time of year again. The festive season is upon us; Mariah Carey, Wham and Michael Buble are everywhere; and for those savvy shoppers, the Boxing Day sales are approaching.

Last year we outlined where to find the top malls and shops across Australia. This year, for those who want to avoid the crowds, we’re going to show you where to look if you prefer to shop online with your credit card.

So instead of shopping till you drop, you can scroll through bargains while polishing off those Christmas Day leftovers.

Clothes

• Black Swallow Boutique – 30 per cent off everything (code: OMG30)
• Forever New – Up to 50 per cent off
• The Iconic – Clearance up to 50 per cent off

Makeup

• Sephora – Up to 70 per cent off on selected items
• Nude by Nature – Half-price sale
• Bobbi Brown– Holiday sets 30 per cent off

Household

• Zanui – Up to 50 per cent off
• Myer – 50 per cent off selected items
• David Jones – Clearance items up to 50 per cent off

Top five tips for the Boxing Day sales

1. Make a list

Write a two-column list: Need and Want.

Writing a list of things you need/want from the sales is important for stopping you from going hell for leather and over-spending.

A good tip is to write this list before Christmas. That way, if anyone gets you anything on there as a gift, you can tick it off.

2. Check it twice – with a budget in mind.

Can you afford what’s on your list? Set a budget and stick to it.

Christmas is an expensive time of year for some people, and January is a long month. Be aware of this when you set your Boxing Day spending budget.

Start with the Need list, and if you have money left over, start buying from the Want list.

3. Find out who’s naughty

Don’t get caught out by sneaky advertising.

Retailers may bump up their prices in the run-up to Christmas, just to make it appear that they have much bigger discounts than they really do.

You can avoid being caught out by this either by doing your research before, or just questioning whether the item you’re looking at is really worth the price, even with the discount.

4. Find out who’s nice

Lots of online stores will have genuinely good offers. Clearance sales are particularly good post-Christmas.

5. Go to town

While online offers are getting better and better, you may find that some of the best deals are in-store.

Pick your favourite store(s) and get in early before the crowds. Then head home and finish your shopping from the comfort of your sofa.

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