Avoid charging to your credit cards, unless you know you can pay back immediately: those small charges add up very quickly and they can become a very big and nasty amount to pay back.
When you pay with a credit or debit card protect it and watch the retailer slide the card at the main console only. This is especially important with debit cards: protect your PIN number so that no one can see it when you punch it.
During the holiday go early in the season: many stores start Christmas sales in November; go early in the day for the best bargains and avoid traffic, and check store hours before going.
Use coupons and gift certificate if you have any and look for bargains: free shipping, discounts, promotions, pay-one-get-one-free, etc. Check prices to make sure a “sale” is truly what is says it is.
Check the return policy on sales: often you will need to return an item and there maybe limits if the item was discounted. If you are buying a present make sure to ask for the special “gift” receipt.
Investigate different stores before buying, write down the prices on a notebook: I hate when I find the same item on sale in a different store for less. Yes, you can return the purchase, but it’s a big waste of time and nobody has time to waste during the holiday season.
Have you seen those electronics on sale for 100$ with a 50$ factory cash back? Sound like a great deal isn’t it? Well, if the item comes with a factory cash back discount be wary: most of the cash back coupons never make their way through, that is to get your money back will be very very difficult. Don’t count on it.
Be cautious especially during the holiday season to avoid trouble. When going to the mall don’t bring too much cash, don’t leave packages in the car, don’t leave your car open, watch for pick pocketing, be aware of your surroundings when you are in a parking lot, and don’t go the last two days before Christmas, unless is really necessary.
And most important of all don’t leave kids in the car alone, not even for one minute, not for one second, not at all: period!
Kids have generally big expectations for the holidays. Don’t spoil kids and don’t flood them with toys; they are no substitute for love. Do something special with them, take them to a special performance, or make something for them yourself to show your love, like for example baking a special cake.
And at the end reward yourself with a nice present too.
Anna Maria Volpi
© Anna Maria Volpi 2004
Anna Maria Volpi
© Anna Maria Volpi 2004
The Wise Shopper
at the Mall
at the Mall
With all the advantages of online shopping still.... nothing compares with going to the mall, walk around, look at the windows, touch the merchandise, try stuff on...
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But going to the mall can be a very stressful experience, especially during the holiday season. In order to minimize the inconvenience plan ahead: Budget your time and set your spending limit for each category (presents, food, personal needs).
IMPORTANT TIPS:
Avoid charging to your credit cards, unless you know you can pay back immediately: those small charges add up very quickly and they can become a very big and nasty amount to pay back.
When you pay with a credit or debit card protect it and watch the retailer slide the card at the main console only. This is especially important with debit cards: protect your PIN number so that no one can see it when you punch it.
Avoid charging to your credit cards, unless you know you can pay back immediately: those small charges add up very quickly and they can become a very big and nasty amount to pay back.
When you pay with a credit or debit card protect it and watch the retailer slide the card at the main console only. This is especially important with debit cards: protect your PIN number so that no one can see it when you punch it.