Store sales have become a staple of the holiday shopping season. But how can you be certain if an advertised deal really offers the best bang for the buck?

Do a bit of background check on holiday sales. Here are a few useful tips from the Federal Trade Commission that can help with the hunt:

• Shop around. An item’s “sale” price isn’t always it least expensive. Some stores may feature an item’s sale price for a limited period, while other locations may have the same item at a discount price every day.

• Read sale advertisements carefully. Ads may list a sale item as “quantities limited,” “no rain checks” or “not available at all locations.” Also, call ahead to the store and make certain it has the item you want in stock.

• Consider your time and travel costs. The price of a sales item at a store across town may involve the added expenses in transportation and parking.

• Look for price-matching policies. Some merchants will match, or even beat, a competitor’s prices.

• Price compare online. If you elect to purchase items from an online merchant, keep shipping costs and delivery time in mind.

• Carefully consider bargain offers based on purchases of additional merchandise. If you don’t need the other item, it’s not a deal.

• Clip coupons. Coupons can help save money on what you’re already planning to buy. But look for any coupon restrictions, such as an expiration date or having to spend a certain amount.

• Ask about sale adjustments. When you buy an item at regular price, and then the same item goes on sale the next week, ask the merchant if can you get a credit or refund for the discounted amount.