YOUR ULTIMATE GUIDE TO CHRISTMAS SHOPPING INSTORE
The festive season is here, and with it comes the joy of finding the perfect gifts for your loved ones. While online shopping has its perks, there’s something truly magical about strolling through decorated stores, hearing carols, and discovering treasures in person.
That’s why we’ve created this ultimate guide to help make your shopping trip smoother, quicker, and way more enjoyable. With a little preparation and our insider tips, you’ll breeze through your Christmas shopping and keep the magic alive every step of the way!
TYPES OF STORES TO SHOP IN AT CHRISTMAS
At Saltrock, we’re proud to have 76 stores across the UK and Northern Ireland! Whether you’re visiting a coastal shop, hunting for deals at an outlet, browsing a shopping centre, or exploring a high street, each store offers a unique shopping experience to help you find the perfect gift.
COASTAL
Shopping in a coastal store at Christmas offers a unique and charming shopping experience. The relaxed, scenic setting allows you to enjoy the fresh sea air while exploring festive displays in a unique setting.
Some of our Coastal Stores: Perranporth, St Ives, Woolacombe, Croyde, Teignmouth and Kendal.
OUTLET
Our outlet stores offer great products with amazing discounts! With fewer crowds compared to traditional retail stores, you can shop at a relaxed pace while purchasing items with great deals this Christmas.
Some of our Outlet Stores: Affinity Devon, Spalding, Clacton, Gloucester Quays, Swindon and Affinity Staffordshire.
HIGHSTREET/CITY
High street shops are great for absorbing the Christmas atmosphere, twinkling lights and Christmas window displays. High street shopping for Christmas is a holiday tradition for most families at Christmas.
Some of our Highstreet Stores: Barnstaple, Southsea, North Berwick, Newcastle (NI) and Exeter.
SHOPPING CENTRE
Shopping in a shopping centre at Christmas offers convenience and variety! You can easily find gifts for everyone on your list. Shopping centres offer amenities such as parking and food courts making your shopping experience easier and enjoyable.
Some of our Stores located in a Shopping Centre: Ballymena, Blyth, Street, Torquay, and Bournemouth.
TOP TIPS FOR SHOPPING INSTORE THIS CHRISTMAS
We get it, Christmas shopping can be a bit stressful at times. That’s why we’ve put together some handy tips to help you have a smooth and successful shopping trip!
MAKE SHOPPING LIST
Make a small shopping list with gift ideas and stocking fillers. A list created on a notepad, or a phone can keep you focused and on budget if you have one.
Bonus Tip: Include a few backup ideas for gifts on the bottom of your list just in case your first choice is not available.
PLAN A ROUTE OF STORES YOU WANT TO VISIT
Before or as soon as you arrive, choose the stores you want to visit and map out a route to save time and energy.
Time-Saving Hack: Check online to see the opening times of a store before leaving.
DRESS COMFORTABLY
Prioritise comfort when shopping, as it often means spending hours on your feet. Wear comfortable shoes and lightweight layers to stay relaxed and focused. Wear comfortable shoes and lightweight layers.
Carrying a bag such as a backpack or a crossbody bag is a great help to store your purchases and keep your hands free.
KEEP YOUR BELONGINGS CLOSE
Make sure you keep an eye on your bags, wallet, and phone to avoid any mishaps. If you're shopping with children, establish a meeting point in case your children get lost.
KEEP FUELLED AND HYDRATED
Surprisingly, shopping instore can be draining so make sure you plan some breaks into the day. Grab a coffee and some food! Take a moment to reset and recharge.
SAVOR THE FESTIVE SPIRIT
Don’t forget to enjoy the magic of Christmas shopping! Admire the holiday displays, listen to carollers, and soak up the seasonal cheer. The best part of in-store shopping is the chance to immerse yourself in the festive atmosphere.
HOW TO MAKE CHRISTMAS SHOPPING MORE ENJOYABLE
Here are three ways to make your festive shopping experience more enjoyable:
• Pair your Christmas shopping with a festive activity, like grabbing a festive hot chocolate or visiting a Christmas Market.
• Shop instore with a family member or friend to make it more fun.
• Break up the day into manageable chunks and take regular breaks to avoid feeling tired or overwhelmed.
ARE THERE ANY BENEFITS TO SHOPPING INSTORE RATHER THAN ONLINE?
Shopping instore means, you can see and feel the products you are interested in up close, making it easier to pick the perfect gift for your loved ones. If you're stuck for ideas, our friendly store staff are usually happy to help with recommendations.
WHAT IF YOU CAN'T FIND WHAT YOU ARE LOOKING FOR INSTORE?
Ask store staff for help! Our store staff are on hand to help you find the perfect present! Alternatively, if we do not have what you are after instore, you can order product online or consider purchasing a gift card.
And that’s it! You have everything you need to make your Christmas shopping smooth, fun, and full of festive cheer! With these tips, you’ll tackle your gift list like a pro!
So, grab your list, hit the stores, and let the magic of the season guide you to the perfect gifts. Happy shopping, and may your season be merry and bright!