End-of-year festivities: how to buy “ wisely ”?

Between St. Nicholas' Day, Christmas and New Year's Eve, there's a lot to spend: gifts for young and old, meals and various outings make November and December very expensive months for households. Fortunately, it's possible to consume intelligently, notably by anticipating your shopping and taking advantage of the good deals offered by Luxembourg businesses. 

If you have Pluxee Gifts (vouchers or card), you can treat yourself or others by making your purchases at one of our many partner sales outlets in Luxembourg. 

And to help you take advantage of as many opportunities as possible, here are a few more tips for smart buying.

The art of anticipation

We've all experienced it, more or less: that frantic race, two days before Christmas, through crowded supermarkets, in search of the last gifts we've been missing. The key to avoiding the stress of being left empty-handed at Christmas, and the rush that leads to bad purchases, is to think ahead! 

Depending on your schedule, you may decide to do it all in one day, which means you'll be rid of the shopping load faster and have peace of mind. But you can also draw up a list in advance, to serve as a shopping guide for the days and weeks ahead. It will enable you to jump on the good opportunities that present themselves as and when promotions are announced. 

The shopping map, available on cityshopping.lu, can help you organize your end-of-year shopping, so you can plan an itinerary, find your way around when you're on the road, or look for the perfect spot for a gourmet break. Don't forget that public transport is free throughout the country. Taking the streetcar into the city center from the station is child's play.

How to find the best deals?

As the holiday season approaches, there's no shortage of bargains to be had. Retailers are offering special prices and promotions, not to mention Black Friday on Friday, November 29 (which extends all weekend in some stores). It's a highly competitive time of year for retailers, offering consumers the chance to take advantage of interesting deals, bonuses and gifts.

Don't be blinded by catchy slogans, and always check the initial price of the product you're interested in to verify the real value of the offer. It can also be useful to compare the prices of different brands for a similar product. Sometimes, despite a great promotion, you can still get better value for money from another brand. Finally, don't lose your good habits just because it's Black Friday or the sales: check online reviews, check warranties, delivery charges... and be extra vigilant about online scams!

Consider buying second-hand

If Black Friday isn't for you, there are other ways to get a bargain in Luxembourg this year-end, with a focus on environmental protection and the circular economy.

The second-hand market is gaining momentum in the country. It's possible to buy new or almost-new products at unbeatable prices, all year round. Similarly, the refurbished market can be a smart alternative to promotions and sales. In addition to well-known second-hand online platforms, it can be worthwhile going to events (garage sales, toy fairs, dress sales, etc.) to see, touch and even try out products before you buy. 

Buying local also means buying smart

Local products are generally of higher quality than their international counterparts. They spend less time on the road, travel fewer kilometers and are often more transparent in their composition, whether they are food products or not. What's more, thanks to your gesture, you're supporting Luxembourg craftsmen and tradesmen. 

Letz shop offers a country-wide map of businesses selling 100% or partly Luxembourg products. The platform also features a special offers section.

Please note: on November 30 and December 1, the Red Cross Bazaar will be held at the Glacis, where you'll be able to buy, among other things, handicrafts, second-hand objects and clothing.

If you want to shop locally and have a good time at the same time, don't hesitate to visit one of the Christmas markets or villages organized at the end of the year.