December 26 might be famous in Melbourne for a rather significant cricket match, but for shoppers, the day is our Grand Final. As designers and retailers slash their prices post-Christmas, it’s a prime opportunity to snap up a bargain: the sneakers you’ve been eyeing off; a new set of glassware; something to wear on New Year’s Eve. And there’s a certain thrill about shopping in-store, where you can hunt down the last burgundy Ganni Bou bag or rarely discounted pair of Miu Miu sunglasses. But, as with all sports, strategy is paramount – here’s your game plan.

1.      Do your homework
Spontaneous shopping is fun, but well-researched shopping is infinitely better. Check which stores are offering the best discounts (Emporium’s Boxing Day Offer Guide can help with that), do some price comparisons and sign up for emails or loyalty programs to ensure you’re in the know. “It’s worth keeping a running list or spreadsheet throughout the year of things you want and need – then come the Boxing Day sales, you can consult back and see which products are marked down,” suggests Annaliese Doig, fashion editor at InStyle Australia. Once you have a wishlist, consult a map of your shopping centre of choice and carefully plan your route for the day. As a general rule, start with shops selling smaller pieces, and work your way up to bulkier, heavier items.

2.     Dress (and pack) for the occasion
When you’re immersed in the chaos and crowds, comfort’s more important than style – though thankfully, in a pair of sturdy sandals and lightweight summer layers, you can achieve both. Remember to wear comfy shoes for walking and pieces that are easy to slip off and on in changing rooms.”Don’t forget to charge your phone and bring a bottle of water and reusable shopping bags,” says Doig. It’s also worth recruiting a shopping buddy who’ll double as an accountability partner, especially if you’re prone to a wildly impractical impulse buy.

3.     Arrive early (or late)

As the saying goes, the early bird gets the discounted Le Creuset. But it also gets the crowds. If you’re not there eagerly waiting for the centre’s doors to open in the morning, try turning up later in the afternoon, when the hardcore shoppers are recharging at the coffee shop.

4.     Shop for things you actually need
Towels. Activewear. Your go-to beauty products. Birthday gifts. There are certain items you’re inevitably going to buy again, so purchasing them during the Boxing Day sales is not just aimless retail therapy, it’s savvy. In the lead-up to December 26, do a stock take of your home. Donate and dispose of pieces that no longer serve you, then treat yourself to fresh and freshly discounted buys on the day. “If you’re super organised, you can do your birthday shopping or buy wedding and baby gifts for next year and make some great savings,” says Doig. 

5.     Don’t get sucked into the hype

Do sales make people buy things they don’t need? Not if you’ve got your wits about you – although the allure of a flashy 60 percent off sign can quickly make you think you want and need those sky-high, Chloe-inspired platform sandals, despite the fact you haven’t worn a heel since 2019, and don’t intend to start again any time soon. So take a breath. Before you buy, check the original price, especially if you’re eyeing something major, to ensure you’re getting a good deal. Some sales are only marginally discounted, so don’t be tempted by a markdown that doesn’t actually save you much. “Ask yourself if you’d still want the item if it was full-price,” advises Doig. “If not, keep it moving.”

6.     Check the returns policy

If the thrill and frenzy of the day clouds your judgement and you do end up buying those platforms, make sure you’re across the returns policy. Some stores have more lenient return windows for Boxing Day sales, while others may offer store credit only. Equally, if you’re going to attempt to return the novelty pyjamas you received for Christmas, you’ll need the original packaging and some sort of proof of purchase.