Save money, skip the crowds, and shop smarter this holiday season with these expert tips for bagging a Boxing Day deal
With the holiday season in full swing, most of us, if not all of us, are in the market for presents for their loved ones, be it a memorable one or a simple stocking filler. According to Fred Harrington, retail expert and CEO of Coupon Mister, a platform dedicated to helping you find the best deals, the key to saving big lies in knowing which days are best for buying before Boxing Day.
“All the shops use predictable sales cycles in the weeks leading up to Christmas,” Fred explains. “If you can plan around them and strike while the iron’s hot, you’re looking at some significant savings on gifts, seasonal items, and other merry essentials.”
Here, Fred takes us through some some of his top yuletide retail tips:
1. Early December
The Christmas sales often start in the first two weeks of December, targeting shoppers who like to plan ahead. These early-bird discounts usually apply to items like decorations, clothing, and electronics. Shoppers benefit from a better range of products and, most importantly, avoid the stress of last-minute hordes.
Fred’s Tip: “This is the perfect time to snag deals on the stuff people actually want. Retailers know organised shoppers are looking to spread their expenses, so they roll out attractive discounts on high-demand products. My advice? Start planning in November!”
2. Super Saturday (21st December 2024)
Missed the Black Friday sales? Well don’t worry, Super Saturday is here to save the day! As one of the biggest shopping days of the season, the final Saturday before Christmas Eve is usually a big day for last-minute shoppers. In 2022, nearly 150 million shoppers hit stores or websites on this day. Expect flash sales on toys, apparel, and electronics, as well as extended store hours to accommodate the rush.
Fred’s Tip: “Super Saturday, just before Christmas Eve, is all about seizing those final discounts. Look out for significant promotions companies use to clear inventory. And as always, arrive early. This is also a great day to pick up some great stocking fillers!”
3. Christmas Eve
On Christmas Eve, retailers cater to super last-minute shoppers (we know you’re out there) with steep discounts on remaining stock. Electronics, gift sets, and festive accessories are often discounted heavily. Online retailers may promote gift cards or subscriptions as convenient, last-minute gift options.
Fred’s Tip: “I like to refer to this as Super Saturday’s aftermath, as most shops on Christmas Eve tend to have limited stock and crowded stores. For the smart shopper, this would usually be a day to buy smaller items or digital gifts that don’t require shipping.”
4. Weekdays Leading Up to Christmas
The week before Christmas is chock-full of opportunities for savings as retailers begin markdowns on seasonal inventory to clear space for post-holiday sales. Shops and supermarkets alike often feature clearance deals on decorations, wrapping supplies, and gift sets. You should expect online retailers to promote site-wide discounts or free express shipping options to accommodate those last-minute orders.
Fred’s Tip: “A lot of people actually leave their shopping to the weekends, leaving weekdays quieter but equally rewarding for the savvy deal-hunters among us. Check clearance sections, especially for holiday decor and gifts.”
5. After-Christmas Sales
This one’s for those seeing loved ones after the big day. Post-Christmas sales are worth mentioning for their unbeatable discounts on unsold holiday stock. Gift cards, seasonal clothing, and so many other products are significantly marked down during this period.
Fred’s Tip: “While this falls outside the pre-Christmas window, planning ahead for these sales can save you big on next year’s festivities. Use this time to stock up on discounted goodies, which will all be at rock-bottom prices.”
Fred Harrington, CEO of Coupon Mister comments:
“Holiday shopping doesn’t have to drain your bank account. It’s all about timing and understanding the sales patterns. Early December is perfect for organised shoppers who want to grab deals on electronics and toys. Super Saturday is a haven for last-minute promotions, while the quieter weekdays before Christmas let you hunt for markdowns in relative peace.
“On Christmas Eve, my advice is to focus on smaller, easier-to-grab items—whether in-store or digital gifts. Retailers know procrastinators need last-minute solutions, so gift cards or subscriptions often come with added incentives.
“The biggest takeaway? Plan ahead and avoid impulse buying. Take a little time to compare prices, use coupons, and keep an eye on stock levels where you can. When you shop with a strategy, you’ll save money and reduce holiday stress, giving you more time to enjoy the season with your loved ones.”
NRF Survey: 142 Million Shoppers Expected for Super Saturday