How to Handle Holiday Returns Without Hassle

Macy's mix-and-matches return policies from time to time, but won't take area rugs or lighting bought online back at its stores. Ann Taylor already doesn't like the idea of you "wardrobing" its clothes for a holiday party and sending them back, which is why it won't take back swimwear, extended-calf boots or "wedding and events" clothing in-store, and Loft has the same policy for maternity and swimwear items. Gap also has a habit of marking items from OldNavy.com, Gap.com and BananaRepublic.com as "Return by Mail Only," so it pays to read the packaging before making a return.

Don't return items this week

What are you, mad? Unless you really enjoy standing in line and arguing with people and felt you didn't get enough of that experience on Black Friday, there's no reason to be in the store the day after or even the weekend after Christmas.

If you have a sales slip or gift receipt, the item is in new condition, unopened and still has all its packing material, there's no reason for you to brave the madness for returns you could just as easily make next week. Just check your return policy and make sure you're not hitting a store during its post-holiday sale, when it may try to refund you the current, lower selling price.

-- Written by Jason Notte in Portland, Ore.

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