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Holiday Bonuses

During the next week and a half, shoppers will find themselves dashing to the store, crossing off wish list items to leave under the tree. Christmas is a time when many people don`t mind splurging. No coincidence it comes at a time when stores are offering holiday sales.

"You`re only as good as your next customer. I think that`s the approach most people take. And so, you`re going to do whatever you have to do to get people in the door," said ND Retail Association President Mike Rud.

Retail giants like Best Buy and Barnes and Noble are getting more competitive, offering bundle packages and incentives on everything from e-readers, video games, cameras and HD TVs.

"Definitely, bundles and specials are always going to drive traffic," said Mike Monroe with Best Buy Multi-Channel Sales Support.

"This is their harvest, if you`re relating it to farming, this is it. This is when they have to get things done," Rud said.

Most places throw in a bonus encouraging you to spend more on gift cards.

"It`s the ideal gift. You can do with it what you want for the most part," Rud said.

"Maybe you don`t know exactly what they`re looking for, a gift card is a great option to give to somebody," Monroe said.

If you don`t know what you`re looking for or you`re on a budget, avoid the big impulse buys. You can compare prices online and take advantage of free shipping. Just make sure it`ll arrive before the holiday. That`ll give you or a kind volunteer enough time to get it wrapped and under the tree before Christmas. And it may save you a little change in your pocket.

Retailers like Walmart and Best Buy also offer price matching. Walmart will match the price of any competitor on an identical item. Best Buy will refund you the difference if the item you buy goes on sale up to 30 days later.