While Christmas is a time of fellowship, family, and faith, it is also a time of giving…but sometimes the gifts we receive are not so great. Finding the perfect gift is harder than it seems (remember when Wayne Campbell received a gun rack — despite not owning a gun, let alone many guns that would necessitate an entire rack — in Wayne’s World?)
The truth is that many of us will receive at least one undesirable gift this holiday season. In fact, it is estimated Americans spend $15.2 billion on unwanted gifts each year.
So, what exactly do you do with an unwanted gift?
How Much Gets Returned and Who is Responsible?
One report says that 28 per cent of gifts are returned each year. Fourteen per cent of respondents say they have returned six or more gifts. Men are more likely to return gifts than women.
In another survey, 45 per cent of respondents said they received bad gifts from the same person more than once. A British survey found that in-laws give the worst gifts.
Most of us accept the gifts graciously, while eight in 10 acknowledge it is the thought that counts.
Unused
While you might think gift cards are a safe bet, each year people receive gift cards they don’t want. Sometimes, this is because the card is for a store that is not available locally. Other times, it is just not a store the receiver shops at. Regardless, each January you can find plenty of gift cards for sale on Facebook Marketplace or sites like Kijiji.
Even when a gift card is used, most of us tend to throw it away before the funds are exhausted. It is estimated that, on average, Canadians leave up to $5 unspent on each gift card. The average Canadian loses approximately $47 in gift cards funds each year.
Know the Rules
Before you try and return an item, make sure you know what is and is not allowed.
For example, most stores have their return policy available online. Read up and make sure you know whether you can return the item for a full refund or store credit. As well, you will need to know whether a receipt is required or not. Be sure your item is in the original packaging. For best results, refrain from opening the package. Sometime, stores may require valid photo identification. Moreover, some items cannot be returned or exchanged at all, like those that have been personalized or engraved.
It is also worth noting that some stores will not allow returns or exchanges on Boxing Day. If that is the case, don’t procrastinate — most stores have a limit on how many days you have to bring the item back to the store. This can fluctuate depending on the type of item (e.g. electronics usually have a shorter return period than other items).
A return policy guide for several major Canadian retailers is available online.
If, for some reason, you are unable to return the item or fail to do so in time, you can also consider “regifting.” There are several reasons why someone might consider doing so, but typically we simply want someone else to get use out of the item in question.
If you do plan on regifting the item, be aware of the “proper etiquette.” This includes ensuring all identifying tags have been removed, re-wrapping the gift, and checking that the item has not expired. Of course, do not commit the faux pas of giving the item back to the person who gave it to you in the first place.
Beware: coworkers are more likely to re-gift than any other group. That might be something to consider at next year’s Christmas party. Of note, however, although about half of us suspect we have received a regifted item, only 34 per cent of admit to regifting.
What People Don’t Want
Some gifts might seem like a slam dunk but end up falling flat.
While many of us want the latest electronic gadget, particularly items like smart phones, these gifts are surprisingly unpopular. That is because technology is becoming so personal that people would rather pick out the phone or device that works best for them.
Video games are also tricky, as gamers are more likely to purchase the hot new games as soon as they are released, meaning they will be exchanging your gift for something else.
Clothing remains one of the least popular items to receive, along with household items and decorations. Some people are picky about fragrances as well.
Looking for safe option? Food is the least likely item to be returned or exchanged.
Options
If you don’t want to regift or returning the item is not an option, there are other things you can do.
Consider selling the item online. You may opt for auction sites like eBay, or a consignment site like ThredUp. There are even specific sites for selling certain items, such as gift cards. When listing an item online, be sure to include photos and a thorough description of the item and its quality. Be honest.
Another option is to trade the items with someone else. Social media makes this an easy and attractive option.
Of course, you could always hold on to the items and eventually hold a garage sale.
Finally, you could donate the item. This may be an attractive option, as people are slightly more likely to donate something than they are to regift. Consider giving the item to the Salvation Army or another local charity. Some local schools offer low-cost Christmas stores for their students and are always in need of donations.
Hopefully, you have a great Christmas and Santa brings you everything on your list. Remember: always include a gift receipt with anything you buy someone else! Happy Holidays!
The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author, and do not necessarily reflect the position of this publication.
