January sales: top 10 tips

1. Make sure you know what you need to buy to avoid spending money on things you don't really need. Drawing up a shopping list will help save time and money.

2. Draw up a list of the shops that interest you most and offer the best deals. This will save you time and unnecessary shopping stress.

3. Be patient and try clothes on when buying. Most probably you will have to wait a bit for an empty changing room, but this is more advisable than risking buying items that do not fit you.

4. Prior to buying, check out what the shop's policy is with regard to unwanted goods. Ask whether items can be returned and, if yes, what is the time-limit. Do not take anything for granted. Policies vary during the sales period.

5. If you simply change your mind after a purchase, you have no legal right to a refund.

6. If goods are faulty or do not match their specifications, you may be entitled to a repair/replacement/ refund. As a consumer, you are entitled to the same rights when you buy goods on sale as at any other time.

7. Check thoroughly whatever you are about to buy for any defects. Keep in mind that apparent defects are not covered by law.

8. It is illegal for shops to pretend that goods have been reduced from a higher price to the sale price, when in reality the retailer raises the original price.

9. Be wary of huge reduction claims and look out for the small print on any adverts.

10. Keep the fiscal receipts. Retail outlets will undoubtedly ask for the proof of purchase on returning a defective/unwanted item.