Christmas is over, and you just opened your gifts. Some earn a place in your kit, while others miss the mark. Post-Christmas Returns are your chance to turn almost-right gear into mission-ready equipment before the clock runs out. In the next 30 days, convert duplicates, wrong sizes, and underperformers into tools you trust when the lights go out.
At a Glance: Post-Christmas Returns
- How to return gifts without receipt
- When you need an RMA number and how to get one
- Which brands will fix or replace your gear for free
Important Dates for Post-Christmas Returns:
- Most stores have a January 15–31 deadline for returns
- Amazon gives you 30 days from delivery
- REI members get one full year
Tip: Check each retailer’s policy page before you drive or ship. Cutoff dates vary by category and condition.
The Three Return Methods You Need to Know
Most physical stores require proof of purchase before issuing a refund, while online gifts and warranty claims often require special codes. Some gear also comes with a warranty.
Here is how to pick the right lane fast.
1. Receipts
A receipt is proof that someone bought the item, whether in paper or email form. It shows the store name, what was bought, how much was paid, and the date. Most stores will need to confirm the purchase before they give money back or issue store credit.
How to Return Gifts Without a Receipt
Most gifts do not come with receipts, but you still have options.
If the person who gave you the gift included a receipt: Bring it to the store. This is the easiest way to return or exchange.
If you got a gift without a receipt: You can still return the item. However, you will get store credit instead of cash back. Store credit means you can buy something else at that same store.
If you know the gift was ordered online: Ask the person who gave it to you if they can forward the email receipt. Pull it up on your phone or print it at home. Most stores accept either version.
If they paid with a credit card (and you know which one): Some stores can look up the transaction in their computer system. This works at Walmart, Target, REI, and most big retailers.
Stores That Accept Returns Without Receipts
- Walmart: Items under $25, no receipt needed (90 days)
- Target: Items under $20 with ID (90 days)
- REI: Members can return without receipt if purchase is in their system
Quick Tip for Preppers
If someone asks what gear you want for your birthday or other occasions, tell them to keep the receipt. If they order online, ask them to forward you the email receipt. Save these in a folder on your phone labeled “Gear Receipts.” This makes returns simple if the gear does not fit or does not meet your needs.
2. RMA Return Process
RMA stands for Return Merchandise Authorization, a tracking number that some companies require you get before you send back their gear.
When Do You Need an RMA?
You mostly need RMA numbers for gifts ordered online and warranty claims. Big outdoor brands like 5.11 Tactical, Benchmade, and Mystery Ranch use this system. Some smaller outdoor companies also tend to require them.
Getting Your RMA Number
- Go to the company’s website.
- Look for a page labeled “Returns” or “Warranty.”
- Fill out their short form (what is wrong, when it was bought).
- They will email you an RMA number usually within a day or two.
Using Your RMA Number
Write the RMA number clearly on the outside of your return box. If you skip this step, some companies will not open your package and will just send it back to you.
Example: Someone gave you a knife as a gift, and the tip broke during normal use. Go to the knife company’s website and request an RMA. They email you a number like RMA-67890. Write that number on your return box before you ship it back.
3. Warranty Shortcuts
Gear warranty claims are based on the company’s promise to you. If their product breaks during normal use (and the damage is not your fault), they will fix or replace it free of charge.
Types of Warranties
Not all warranties are created equal. Know whether yours is lifetime or limited before you ship anything back.
Lifetime Warranty: The company will replace the item forever with no time limit.
Examples: Darn Tough socks, Benchmade knives, Zippo lighters
Limited Warranty: Only works for one to five years. After that time period ends, you pay for repairs.
Examples: Most flashlights, some boots
How to File a Warranty Claim
Many brands do not need the original receipt for warranty claims. They just want:
- Photo of the broken gear
- Where it was bought (Amazon, REI, etc.)
- Short explanation of what happened
Which brands have the easiest warranties?
Some companies make warranty claims simple and fast.
- Darn Tough socks: Mail in your worn-out sock. They send a new one. No receipt needed.
- Zippo lighters: Send it in. They fix it free. Forever.
- Benchmade knives: Free sharpening for life. Repairs are usually free or cheap.
What Voids a Warranty
If you abused the gear on purpose (ran it over, used it wrong), the warranty does not apply. Normal wear and tear from regular use is almost always covered.
Return Deadlines and Next Steps
Most stores close their return windows between January 15 and January 31. Amazon gives you 30 days from delivery, while REI members get one full year.
Your Mission This Week
- Test all the gear you received this Christmas.
- Sort a “return” pile for wrong size, duplicates, or failed performance
- Choose the path: store return, brand warranty, or RMA online
- Print labels and pack boxes with the RMA on the outside
- Calendar the cutoff dates so nothing slips past the window
You do not want to discover a weak flashlight during an outage or a binding zipper on the first cold snap. Test now, return fast, and replace with proven gear.
The Bottom Line
Post-Christmas Returns are not about being picky. They are about eliminating weak links so your kit works when conditions turn. Validate every gift. Exchange what fails to fit, to function, or to earn a spot in your system. Strong gear builds real confidence, and confidence is a survival multiplier.
FAQs:
1) Can I return survival gear without a receipt during Post-Christmas Returns?
Often yes. Expect store credit with ID, not cash, and be ready to verify approximate purchase date and location.
2) Should I return to the retailer or file a warranty claim with the brand?
If the item is new and unused, try the retailer first for speed. If it failed in normal use, a manufacturer warranty claim can be the better path.
3) Do I always need an RMA number for Post-Christmas Returns?
You will for many online purchases and almost all mailed warranty claims. Get the RMA on the brand’s site, then write it on the box and the packing slip.
