1. Know the Best Times for Clearance Sales
Retailers offer clearance sales throughout the year, but some periods are better than others for securing the biggest discounts.
Key Times for Clearance Sales:
- January Sales: Post-Christmas stock is heavily discounted.
- End-of-Season Sales: Clothing and footwear are reduced to make way for new stock.
- Black Friday & Cyber Monday: Many retailers slash prices to clear old inventory.
- Boxing Day Sales: A great opportunity for deals on homeware and tech.
- Mid-Year Sales (June–July): Discounts on spring and summer collections.
Tip: Sign up for retailer newsletters to receive alerts on upcoming clearance events.
2. Make a Shopping List to Stay Focused
Clearance sales can be overwhelming, with tempting offers at every turn. A well-planned shopping list can help you stay on track and avoid impulse purchases.
How to Create a Smart Shopping List:
- Identify what you actually need (e.g., winter coats, school supplies, household essentials).
- Set a budget to prevent overspending.
- Prioritise high-value items that are expensive at full price.
Tip: If you’re unsure about a purchase, step away for a few minutes and think before buying.
3. Compare Prices Before Buying
Just because an item is in a clearance sale doesn’t always mean it’s the best deal. Comparing prices across different retailers ensures you’re getting the lowest possible price.
Where to Compare Prices:
- Google Shopping: Enter the product name to check prices across multiple stores.
- PriceRunner & CamelCamelCamel: Track historical prices to see if it’s truly a bargain.
- Supermarket Comparison Websites: Useful for grocery clearance items.
Tip: If shopping in-store, use your phone to check online prices before purchasing.
4. Look for Additional Discounts on Clearance Items
Many retailers offer extra discounts on clearance items, especially towards the end of the sale period.
Ways to Get Extra Savings:
- Use discount codes—some retailers allow stacking clearance sales with promotional vouchers.
- Check if cashback sites like TopCashback or Quidco offer extra savings.
- Use loyalty points from schemes like Tesco Clubcard or Boots Advantage Card to reduce costs further.
Tip: Some retailers offer student, NHS, and carer discounts even on clearance items—always ask at checkout.
5. Inspect Items for Quality and Return Policies
Clearance items are often non-refundable, so it’s important to check for any defects or missing parts before purchasing.
Things to Look Out For:
- Ensure clothing fits properly—some clearance items are final sale.
- Check for missing accessories or damaged packaging in electronics and homeware.
- Read return policies carefully—some clearance items may have different rules.
Tip: If you’re shopping online, check product reviews before purchasing to avoid disappointment.
6. Shop Off-Peak Hours for the Best Selection
Shopping at the right time can help you find the best deals before items sell out.
Best Times to Shop:
- Early Morning: Stock is freshly restocked, giving you first choice.
- Weekdays: Stores are quieter, meaning less competition for deals.
- End of the Month: Retailers may drop prices further to clear stock before new deliveries arrive.
Tip: For online shopping, check for flash sales or "final markdown" categories late at night.
Summary and Key Takeaways
- Plan ahead by shopping during key clearance periods like January Sales and end-of-season events.
- Create a shopping list and budget to avoid unnecessary spending.
- Compare prices before buying to ensure you’re getting the best deal.
- Use discount codes, cashback, and loyalty rewards to stack extra savings.
- Inspect items carefully and check return policies before purchasing.
- Shop during off-peak hours to access the best selection before items sell out.
Shopping clearance sales smartly can help carers make significant savings on essentials while staying within budget. With the right approach, you can bag high-quality items at a fraction of the price. For more money-saving tips and exclusive discounts, visit CarersCardUK.
