Five ways to improve your holiday shopping
With all the Thanksgiving leftovers stored in the refrigerator, the holidays have officially begun and the Christmas countdown has started ticking. Christmas not only means candy canes and gingerbread but also the stress of spending and finding all the gifts for numerous friends and family members.
Looking for ways to find great gifts while being kind to your wallet is a challenge during the holidays. These five tips will not only help avoid busting budgets, but prevent a few gray hairs and last-minute scrambling on Christmas Eve.
- Set a budget
Do not blindly start spending left and right. In order to avoid spending too much, set a realistic budget that can ideally cover all the holiday purchases. Don’t leave out food, wrapping paper, cards and any vacation expenses. Also include a plan to reimburse the damage done.
- Make a list
Going out with unorganized names and gifts jumbled in the mind will lead to a slippery slope of doubt and overspending. After setting a budget, create a list of presents along with their recipients. Include the maximum amount of money you’re willing to spend on each gift. Also include small gifts and tasks, like baking cookies for a neighbor and giving holiday tips to doormen, mailmen, babysitters, etc. Also set dates to accomplish each item on the list in order to avoid shopping on Christmas Eve.
- Do research
Once a list of gifts is made, do research about gifts. Read reviews on the best brands, sizes, models, etc., especially if you do not know the specific present to purchase. Research every expensive item to find the best quality gift for set budget. Also use price matching and comparison websites to buy from the most cost-effective places.
- Opt for free shipping
Taking advantage of online deals is already a fantastic start. But if online shopping is where the majority of purchases takes place, shipping and handling fees can quickly add up. Many companies will offer free shipping on all purchases or for one or a set number of days during the holiday season. Make sure to look up the dates for when these offers are made and make larger purchases during those days.
- Be thoughtful
When all else fails, homemade gifts from the heart can be the direction to go in. Cards, art projects, knitting projects, picture frames, and collages can be priceless substitutes. DIY projects are also gentle on funds. The better the quality, the higher the value, so make sure enough time is put aside to assure that all projects are done well and that the results are enough to evoke emotion and sentimental value.