For the uninitiated, Boxing Day may seem disorienting. It’s a day that simultaneously gives me a headache and an adrenaline rush – but I wouldn’t have it any other way. Picture long line ups and marathon waiting just to get to the cash register.

Boxing Day, however, is totally worth it. Aside from all the holiday merchandise on sale, Boxing Day can be a worthwhile opportunity to stock up on staple wardrobe pieces. Here are a few tips to keep in mind before the big day:

1. Sacrifice sleep: I know the holidays are meant for catching up on sleep and relaxing but, if you’re keen on getting certain wardrobe pieces or a new electronic, do not wait. Sleep can wait – just this once anyways. Last year, I was out of the door at 5 a.m., when it was still pitch black outside. If you want to get a good parking spot and avoid the swarming sea of people, it’s best to get to the stores right when they open. This is a good idea if you wear a smaller clothing size as stores are likely to run out of sizes small and medium faster.

2. Scout out merchandise the week prior: Head to your favourite stores and see what pieces you want from this season’s selection. Have you been a eyeing a pricy wool coat or a pair of leather boots? Despite the additional help on hand, sales associates will likely be swamped and service may be slower – so try the boots or coat on earlier on in the week in order to save fitting room time.

3. Decide which stores: This may seem like a given, but sometimes people think that they’ll just head to the mall early and see what deals there are by starting from one side of the mall to the other. Idly walking around observing the boxing deals wastes valuable time, especially when the lines will start to build. From late morning onwards, I always find most of my time consumed by waiting in long lines, rather than the actual shopping. Boxing Day is always an ideal time to stock up on necessities such as bras and panties. Victoria’s Secret has their semi-annual sale around this time where you’ll find items knocked down by up to 50 per cent.

4. Choose the best mall: If you’re planning to head to a department store, choose the mall that has the best selection of the brands you’re interested in. While the mall around the corner from my house is a short 10-minute drive, that particular Bay doesn’t typically stock higher end brands or have a Topshop. Factor in the variety of stores and the layout of the mall as well. If all your store are relatively dispersed, it may be more convenient to find a mall that has them closer together.

5. Keep track of worthy deals: Don’t waste too much time at stores with lackluster sales and uncompetitive prices – there’s likely a better deal out there. Some stores, like Club Monaco or Zara, will set aside a handful of marked down items mixed in with their regular priced items. Most items tend to be marked at 20 per cent or 30 per cent off, with the least desired items at 50 per cent off. The “up to 50 per cent signs” can be deceiving.

Some stores, like Aritzia, may only knock off a measly two to five dollars to get you out and spending. For these items, only get them if they’re timeless or will be a worthwhile investment. I tend to stock up on mittens or leather belts – as this is the only day of the year these pieces will be lowered from regular price.

6. Stock up on holiday merchandise: You might be thinking of clothes and electronics, but this is the ideal time to replenish your stock of wrapping paper for next year. Holiday decorations and candy are almost always on sale as well. I tend to stock up on most of my bath and soap products for the year. I always find myself making an annual trip to Bath and Body Works as well – their sales are phenomenal with item prices being slashed up to 75 per cent off.

Boxing Day can be a fun experience to share with your friends or it can be as a solo mission to get all your desired items. Whatever you choose, always approach Boxing Day shopping with a patient and caffeinated mind.