- First, make a list and include every person you are buying for.
- Decide on a budget and stick to it!
- Plan some time just for Christmas gift shopping; this way, you’re not rushing around trying to buy gifts while doing the weekly grocery shop.
- Shop online. This can be a massive time saver as you can do this while the shops are shut. Start now and check delivery times to make sure things will arrive on time. How to reuse silica gel sachets
- Click and collect is also a good option rather than hoping that parcels will arrive on time. You buy online but then pick it up from the shop rather than having it delivered.
- If you’re not a fan of online shopping, you can still check a store’s website to see what they have and if it’s in stock (which can save a wasted journey).
- Plan to buy a couple of ‘emergency’ gifts just in case you receive an unexpected gift. If you don’t use them, you can give them as birthday gifts through the year.
- If you have a big family, suggest a ‘lucky dip’ where each person buys for one other person only. This will save loads of time, money, and stress!
- Choose a shopping centre that has lots of different stores – this way can stay in one place rather than travelling around. Also have a look at the online directory of the shopping centre you are heading to and decide beforehand which shops you will visit. This will stop you wandering aimlessly around and getting distracted (wasting time!)
- If you prefer independent shops rather than chain stores – try your local high street or weekend markets which will have fabulous and unique gifts on offer.
- Go early morning or late afternoon – the middle of the day tends to be the busiest in the lead up to Christmas.
- And to get ahead, start next year’s Christmas shopping in the New Year’s sales (although be sure to check any ‘use by’ dates!)
And if you hate shopping, avoid it altogether and make some gifts at home.
Here are some ideas to get you started: