TUCSON, Ariz. - Shoppers are expected to visit retailers with full force the day after Christmas, according to the National Retail Federation.
The National Retail Federation completed a survey during the month of December and found 27 percent of shoppers anticipated going to the store on Dec. 26 to redeem their gift cards.
RetailMeNot advised going a step further and not visiting stores until after the first of the year.
Another 17 percent of people said they were going to the store to return or exchange an unwanted gift, according to the study.
The study also showed 2018 was the 12th biggest consecutive year for gift cards purchases.
RELATED: Stores with stingy and generous return policies
If you're still planning on braving the crowds to return or exchange an unwanted gifts, keep the following tips in mind.
- Keep your gift receipt
- Don't open boxes, especially if the gift is an electronic. Some stores charge a restocking fee if you plan on returning an open electronic gift.
- Bring your I.D.
- Know the return policy and time limits
If the crowds don't intimidate you and you're planning on spending your gift cards the day after Christmas, below are a few things to keep in mind.
- Read the fine print. Make sure your gift card is redeemable at any store location and not just a specific one.
- Protect your gift card. Some cards allow you to register your gift card as a credit card to prevent scammers from stealing it.
If you realize you don't want the gift card and would rather have cash, websites like Raise allow you to sell your gift card to them and get the cash back.
RELATED: How to prevent gift card fraud this holiday season
