A trip to London and a browse through the shops is always a good idea, but the January sales can get a bit much at times! Here’s our survival guide for finding the best buys in London and making the most of your trip:
Plan Ahead
Shopping in the sales is a lot easier on your legs (and your wallet) if you know what kind of thing you’re after. Make a list of everything you need and one of everything you want, but be prepared to battle it out between them. Sales shopping isn’t just a time to treat yourself. If you plan ahead, you’ll be ready for the coming year without spending too much on those winter coats and dresses, or new electronic gadgets.
Decide where you want to shop
Where to begin your treasure hunt? Oxford Street is a brilliant place to begin when scouting for high street buys, as is Westfield Shopping Centre, in Shepherds Bush and Stratford City. Heading to Brick Lane and Shoreditch is a good idea if you’re after discounted vintage finds and quirky gifts. Big department store sales to look out for include John Lewis, House of Fraser and Debenhams which all offer epic January discounts. Don’t miss the sale at Hamleys if you’re looking for fantastic children’s toys.
Set a budget
It’s not really a bargain if you don’t need it. Planning ahead and buying things you need for later in the year is a good idea. Keep a good track of what you’ve bought and try to be as shrewd as possible with your purchases. There will be sales later in the year and January is not the be all and end all. Instead of buying everything as you see it, you may want to have a speedy look around first and decide what you want later. This way you can select which items you should really buy. Most shops do offer returns on sales, but check that you understand their policy first.
Keep your energy up
Shopping may be fun but it’s also extremely tiring. Quickly fire-up any failing energy by packing a few snacks in your bag to keep you properly fuelled. Fruit, unsalted nuts, seeds and whole food energy bars are all great at giving you the sustained energy you need. A bottle of water will keep you hydrated and improve your memory, focus and concentration – all important for bargain-baggers!
Find a good place to rest
Whether you want a Friday night stay, (to hit the sales early on a Saturday morning) or a place to rest after a hard day’s shopping, we have a number of hotels across London, providing the perfect rest after a solid day of shopping. Travelodge London Covent Garden and London Marylebone are both within easy reach of Oxford Street and close to the main cultural and social spots. Or visit the Travelodge Stratford a comfy bed a stone’s throw from Westfield.
