At least that's the advice of store managers in businesses around Bendigo.

Traditionally today sees Australians doing one of three things: watching the Boxing Day test, heading to the cinemas for the summer blockbuster or grabbing a bargain in the sales.

For those opting for sales, stores are ready with a full deck of staff and a whole lot of savings.

Store manager of Katmandu Bendigo, Alison Toppinen said it was her first Boxing Day since arriving at the store.

"I'm excited for the challenge and have been told there will be lines of people (waiting to get in)," she said.

"We really want people to be patient. It's important to us that we give each customer a one-on-one."

Jono Westcott of Focus on Furniture said people with a good idea of what they wanted usually got the best bargains.

"They check our ad in the paper and see what we've got (on sale)," he said.

"People should always ask for a better price to get the best price available. And a big smile's always good too.

"The more relaxed people are the better the sale will go through. We understand that everyone is busy."

Bunnings Warehouse complex manager Matt Heinrich has worked for Bunnings for 18 years and knows about Boxing Day sales.

"We get a lot of people redeeming gift vouchers, usually a 50-50 mix (of men and women)," he said.

"We're open from 7am, so the best advice is to get in early and beat the crowds.

"Just make sure you have a sense of humour, enjoy yourself and get a good bargain."

Mr Heinrich said outdoor furniture, barbecues and power tools were proving popular this year.

And it wouldn't be a trip to Bunnings without a sausage in bread for breakfast.

"We'll definitely have the sausage sizzle going. The Australian Navy Cadets are running it (today)," Mr Heinrich said.

"People will have has Saturday, Sunday, Monday and Tuesday off, which is a good lead-up to Boxing Day and the weather is looking magnificent, so everyone should come down and have a look."

So good luck eager shoppers and be patient.