Thousands of shoppers hit the malls Tuesday to either return unwanted gifts or to capitalize on retailers hoping to clear out their holiday inventory. 

For Nesconset resident Lenny DiStefano, heading to the Smith Haven Mall on the day after Christmas is a way to keep the family celebrating the holidays just a little bit longer.

"Definitely a continuation of the holiday season. Kids have off from school, and I'm off from work. We figured we'd get it done," says DiStefano. 

Retailers say shoppers with returns should bring gift receipts and know store policies. Shoppers should also bring identification as some stores will scan driver's licenses to prevent fraud.

Experts say shoppers should hold off on buying new electronics and gadgets until the end of January. They say that's when stores will be trying to sell 2017 items to make room for new 2018 models.