Hassle-free holiday returns

Wouldn't it be great if every gift we opened on Christmas morning was just right?

Alas, that seldom happens. There's usually the sweater that doesn't fit, the snuggly blanket in the way-wrong color, the coffee maker for the tea drinker.

At our house, it was the Polo Ralph Lauren blazer I bought for my husband. The navy was ideal, the perfect mate for khakis or jeans, and the embossed gold buttons added a jaunty touch. But there was too much Dale for the jacket -- and so back it goes.

Here's the catch. I bought the blazer at an outlet located two hours from home. Returning it will be a hassle. The good news is I checked the store's return policy before I bought and I have six months in which to make a return -- so I figure I can wait until my next trip that way.

Still, the rule of thumb is to make returns as quickly as possible, while you still have the receipt and can readily exchange items. Don't forget to bring the packaging with you, even if you can't fit the item inside, to avoid a restocking fee.

If the store won't give you cash and you don't want an even exchange, work your way up the retail food chain until you reach a decision maker. At the very least, negotiate for a store credit. Be patient, persistent and polite. And smile.