"Getting great gifts for your loved ones doesn't have to cost you your next paycheck," said Lisa Lee Freeman, editor-in-chief, ShopSmart. "To save this season, follow our advice to uncover deals, avoid lousy merchandise and get great buys on everything from earmuffs to electronics."

ShopSmart's Shopping Secrets

1. Start online.

-- Try on shoes and clothes for size in the store, and then look for them to go on clearance online. -- Check eBay first. Even if you skip the auctions and only buy items that have the "buy it now" option, you can save tons off retail.

2. Dodge hidden charges and unwanted merchandise.

-- Always check return costs and see if items bought online can be returned to a local store, especially for large purchases. -- If it's a bargain, grab it, but think twice about final-sale items.

3. Don't pay full price.

-- Before you check-out online, Google "promotion code" and the name of the product to find additional savings. -- When planning a trip to the outlets, find printable coupons online for preferred stores. -- Request a price adjustment after you have made a purchase if you find a lower price in sale circulars or on sites like PriceProtectr.com that can track prices for you.

4. Shop when you're at your best.

-- Don't shop when you're exhausted: You'll be less likely to shop around and you won't pay attention to prices. -- Get dressed up when you go shopping. You will feel less desperate for a makeover and avoid blowing big bucks.

5. It never hurts to ask.

-- Don't underestimate your bargaining power, even at the doctor's office. -- Ask sales associates for advance notice of sales. Then shop the night before the sale and ask to have full price items put on hold until the sale starts.

6. Get the biggest bang for your buck.

-- Ask for freebies. For example, if you buy a TV ask for free delivery. -- If a salesperson won't budge on a price, see if you can negotiate an upgrade.

About ShopSmart magazine:

Launched in Fall 2006 by Consumers Union, publisher of Consumer Reports, ShopSmart draws upon Consumer Reports' celebrated tradition of accepting no advertisements and providing unbiased product reviews. The magazine features product reviews, shopping tips on how to get the most out of products and "best of the best" lists. ShopSmart is ideal for busy shoppers who place a premium on time. ShopSmart has a newsstand price of $4.99 and is available nationwide at major retailers including Barnes & Noble, Wal-Mart, Borders, Kroger, Safeway and Publix.

ShopSmart is now available by subscription at www.ShopSmartmag.org.

SOURCE Consumer Reports