How to survive the January sales 2012
Make the most of this year's January sales in 5 easy steps
The January sales can be a bargain hunter's dream, but before you join the masses, check out our top tips on making the most of the sales and getting the best deals.
1 Think about what you actually need - it's easy to get carried away when you see plenty of sale tags. Avoid spending a fortune on soon-to-be clutter by having a list of possible buys and sticking to it.
2 Go equipped - wear comfy shoes and carry a bottle of water in your bag. If you're heading for a shopping centre, consider leaving your coat in the car. Shops can get really hot, even more so when they're busy, and that's where you'll be spending most of your time.
3 Plan your route and head to the most popular stores first. Crowds increase during the middle of the day, and also last thing in the afternoon, so try to avoid congested places at those times.
4 Your consumer rights on sale items are exactly the same as when you buy normal goods, so don't be afraid to return purchases if they have defects. It is illegal not to offer refunds on sale items.
5 If you can't face the crush of the January sales, you can shop online. Many stores offer the same, if not better, sale discounts on their websites, so you can shop from the comfort of your home.
Don't forget to check out our essential guide to the January sales and our pick of the best high street sales, before you hit the shops!
Chosen by House to home
Snap up a bargain in this year's January sales
