For the bargain shopper, it can feel like Christmas actually falls on December 26. After all, what better way to wrap up the Christmas holiday than putting your new-found gains (i.e. money, gift cards) to good use or taking advantage of clearance sales? {relatedarticles}It's almost a guarantee that you'll find great deals among the post-holiday sales when stores are slashing their prices to get rid of merchandise. Here are some things to consider before you begin your spree. Return or exchange any gifts as soon as possible. This will prevent you from misplacing said gift or losing the gift receipt. Also keep in mind that there's no time like the present to use those gift cards. Some cards have expiration dates or cash penalties if the cards aren't used within a certain date of activation. Remember, great minds think alike, which means your fellow shoppers will be out in full force. Get there early before the good deals are long gone. It's probably a good idea to make this a solo mission and leave the kids behind. If you have no other alternatives, make sure the kids are fed and wearing comfortable shoes for your shopping excursion.

Nothing will slow you down faster than complaints of "my feet hurt" and "I'm hungry." Once you're out and about, here's what to look for. Choose carefully. By only what you need... or want. If it's not high on your wishlist, don't give in simply because it's on sale. Still feeling festive? {relatedarticles}Buy your decorations, ornaments and other holiday gear 50 to 75 percent less. If you have a friend or family member expecting, pick up "Baby's First Christmas" garb. Think ahead. Valentine's Day, Mother's Day, Father's Day and birthdays are right around the corner. Stock up on gift sets and other cool presents for the upcoming occasions. Take advantage of all the cost cuts for any upcoming event you can think of. For example, red-wrapped chocolate candies can be frozen and will be perfect for Valentine's Day, while green-wrapped chocolate candies are ideal for St. Patrick's Day.