With Boxing Day only a few days away, Canadian shoppers can take advantage of all the great deals on offer for smart shopping.

It is important to prepare for Boxing Day shopping to avoid overspending. What should you do to maximize your shopping this season? Here are some tips to help you shop smart on Boxing Day.

1. Check the budget to shop smart on Boxing Day

Shopping without thinking about the budget is a recipe for a headache. Therefore, before confirming a purchase, it is important to make the contents and assess whether that amount fits in your pocket. And even in instalment purchases, think calmly if it will be easy to pay all the bills. After all, there’s no better feeling than buying what you wanted so much with the certainty that the payment will not be a problem – not now, not at the end of the month.

2. Evaluate the cost-benefit

Of course, we want to pay less for all purchases. But, in addition to price, it is important to assess the benefits that a cheaper or more expensive purchase can bring. Is it worth paying a little extra for a more durable and tougher product? Or can I choose a simpler option at a better price? A few questions like that make all the difference for you to shop smart on Boxing Day.

3. Get a rewards credit card.

If you want to shop smart on Boxing Day, you must have a rewards credit card at your disposal.

There are two kinds of reward credit cards: cash back and points. The cash back card is a perfect choice if you’re simply looking to save money. Users of cash back credits receive a percentage of their purchase each month based on their spending. For example, if you plan to buy at a Walmart store this season, getting a Walmart Rewards™ World Mastercard® is a smart idea. Users can earn up to 3% cash back on every purchase. Earn big rewards in-store, online, at gas stations, and pretty much everywhere else you shop – all with no annual fees. Then use your rewards like cash on anything Walmart sells.

A points-based rewards card can be a great solution for those looking for free travel rewards. These cards are especially popular among frequent travelers since they can often earn points towards travel expenses like flights and accommodations.

4. Shop online

You probably aren’t in the mood to leave bed on Boxing Day since it is a public holiday. Luckily, you can still shop online during the Boxing Day sales. It’s so much more fun to shop in your nightwear when you’re on your mobile device or laptop. Saves you the stress of finding parking and dealing with crowded shopping centres.

Shop at sites like Amazon or Walmart to avoid the stress of going to individual sites for each of your favorite brands.

5. Bargain to shop smart on Boxing Day

Don’t be shy about negotiating, especially if you’re paying cash. Any small discount you get is extra money in your account that you can invest later!

Generally, stores are prepared for discount requests and already have an expected margin to offer their customers.

In conclusion

If you put these tips into practice, chances are you would shop smart on Boxing Day.

Finally, remember to be careful with spending on your credit card this time of year. Only spend what you will be able to pay when you receive your next bill. Always try to remember these tips when shopping. It’s by saving here and there that you’ll be able to enjoy the New Year without compromising your budget.