The harsh reality is that Christmas and Hanukkah are a few days away, and for many consumers, their Holiday shopping is not yet complete.
But you don’t have to add procrastination to your list of holiday stressors. Finishing up won’t be as bad or as harmful to your finances as you fear as long as you keep a few things in mind.
Shopping is Just a Click Away, But…
Many people turn to online shopping for convenience, but when placing orders, be mindful of shipping times and fees.
E-commerce sites should prominently display these times and charges but do a little digging if the info isn’t front and center. Many sites will offer free or discounted expedited shipping to ensure your packages arrive on time.
However, there still could be some snags in the process, so unless you’re ordering a digital gift certificate, you might want to opt for in-store shopping juuuust in case.
The Madding Crowd
If you need to hit the stores, here are some steps to take before you head out:
– Make a list, and not in your head – It’ll be hectic out there, and you’ll want to stay on track. Use the Notes app on your phone to stay organized. Or an old-fashioned piece of paper will do!
– Holiday gifting is about others, NOT you – It’s ok to treat yourself to a little item r two, but remember, you have gifts to buy. If you find a great deal on something you need for the house, stock up, but a shopping free-for-all will only end up in a fat credit card bill come January.
– Go early, go late, or take a sick day – If you have limited time due to your work schedule, check store hours. You’ll find that many stores open early and stay open late to accommodate shoppers like yourself. Or take one of your comp days and make a day of it – just don’t post a TikTok of you shopping. 😉
– Something special – If your recipients haven’t asked for something specific, take a stroll downtown or go to a pop-up holiday market. You’ll be more likely to find something unique and support small businesses which need our help more than ever.
Keep Your Cool
Whether you’re shopping online or in-store, try to avoid getting swept away by deep discounts.
While deals are exciting and enticing, remember that 50 percent off means you’re still spending 50 percent. If the items on your list are on sale, go for it; otherwise, walk away.
Or say you see a deal for Buy 3 Get 1 Free – ask yourself if you really need four of that item.
Out of Ideas or out of time?
Here are some quick and easy last-minute gift suggestions!
– Memberships/Subscriptions—Museum or zoo memberships and/or subscriptions to favorite magazines are always appreciated!
– Experiences—Sites like Groupon offer discounted experiences, from virtual cooking classes and wine tastings to sky diving.
– Subscription Boxes – From snacks to toys to beauty products or clothes, there’s a subscription box for every interest.
– Say it with Booze – Pick something up at the liquor store. Most liquor stores even carry decent gift bags you can purchase in a pinch.
– “Break Apart” Gifts – if you belong to a wholesale club, like Costco or Sam’s Club, they will sell big, beautiful gift baskets packed with treats. Consider purchasing one of these and dividing the goodies into several smaller gifts, using holiday-themed gift bags & boxes from the dollar store or your local Target or Walmart, where they will be on clearance right about now).
– Photo Gifts – Your local drugstore chain, like CVS or Walgreens, will often offer photo gifts that can be ready within the hour. Order in-store or online.
– Gift Cards – Purchase digital gift cards online and e-mail them to your recipient. If you purchase through a platform like GiftCardGranny, you can even save a bit on your gift cards. Your recipient will never know you saved. If you prefer to give a physical card, grocery stores and drugstore chains, like Rite Aid or Walgreens, will have gift cards available for retailers like Target, Barnes & Noble, Macy’s, Starbucks, and more.
DIY Gifts
Another option is to make something. If you’re a half-decent baker, you can whip up a few batches of cookies, muffins, banana bread, etc., and package them in a gift box.
Or consider the gift of help. If you are physically able but know someone who isn’t, offer your assistance. Maybe their basement has become cluttered and you can help them sort through things. Or perhaps they need pictures hung or a piece of furniture assembled. This kind of help is priceless!
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