11 Tips for Last-Minute Holiday Shopping
It’s a wonderful time of the year, but it can also be one of your busiest. Every minute has been accounted for between all the parties and family gatherings, not to mention work deadlines fast approaching. It doesn’t help that you’re running out of time before Christmas Day! What do you do? We’ve got you covered with the last-minute holiday shopping tips to make your life easier this year! These ideas don’t involve spending a lot of money but can give you plenty of gifts to put under the tree or on proud display in your home this year! Some gift ideas and suggestions for inexpensive items perfect for stocking stuffers. So let’s get started!
Use Coupons
The best way to save money while holiday shopping is to use coupons. You can find them online, online, or even in-store circulars. Try using a coupon code online for a specific gift and don’t have time to search through stores! You can also find these discount codes at CouponGot. The most important thing is to keep an eye out for the deals and make use of them. If you don’t find what you’re looking for, try taking advantage of other coupon codes online or in-store!
Make a List
Making shopping lists is very helpful! Even if this isn’t something you do every day, making a list for holiday shopping can help you stay organized and on track. Write down all the essentials, so nothing gets forgotten! Mention all the gifts and goodies you need to get for your loved ones, and then start crossing them off as you go. Also, Mention those items you want and need and may not get the chance to buy later.
Start With What You Know
If you’re not sure what someone wants, start thinking about what they like. What are their hobbies? What do they enjoy? Do they have any favorite brands or stores? Once you have a few ideas, it’ll be easier to figure out the perfect gift for them. If nothing makes sense, go with a gift card! The best part about gift cards is that the receiver can choose what they want, so no returns or exchanges are necessary.
Check the Store Policies
Most of the time, stores have a policy where you won’t get your money back if you buy something and then return it before the holiday. So, make sure to double-check the store’s policies before making any purchases! Also, check the return policy for the gift card itself if the receiver decides they don’t want it after all. If you are using coupons, check the coupon policy as well. Knowing about the store’s policies in advance can help you avoid any unwanted surprises.
Check the Expiration Date
Gift cards typically have an expiration date, so make sure to check what that is before buying one! Sometimes, gift card issuers will extend the expiration date if there are still a few weeks until the holiday, but it’s best to confirm this ahead of time. Also, if you are buying chocolates or other perishable items, make sure they are still on a date. Also, go for those last-minute gifts that can be easily mailed or delivered on the spot, like gift cards for someone’s favorite restaurant.
Get a Gift Card for Yourself, Too!
It is frustrating to carry around multiple gift cards, so why not get one for yourself, too? This way, you won’t have to worry about carrying one card around, and you’ll know exactly how much money you have to spend. These also make great last-minute gifts for those people who are hard to buy for. Another great option for last-minute holiday shopping is online gift cards. You can purchase them from various retailers and deliver them electronically to the recipient’s email address. It is great if you are unaware of what the person wants or doesn’t want to go through the hassle of going out and shopping.
Buy in Bulk
It is a great option if you know someone who likes to stockpile items or have a specific item they love. Stocking up sometimes saves you money, and it’s more convenient than running around to different stores. Plus, you can fill up the pantry for the holiday season. Also, at Offers.com, you can find coupons and deals on bulk items to help you save even more money. As it’s the time of the discounts and deals, take advantage of the offers and save some bucks.
Visit Thrift Stores
It is a great option if you’re looking for unique gifts or if you want to get something for a fraction of the price. Thrift stores are filled with hidden treasures, so it’s worth taking the time to browse through them. And if you don’t find anything, you can always save your gift cards for another time. A little research about the thrift stores will let you explore more about them. You can find the nearest thrift store through the website “Thrift Shopper.”
Avoid Peak Times
As the holiday season approaches, the stores will be overcrowded. If you can avoid going during peak times, it will improve your shopping experience. You may have to visit the stores a few times to get everything you want, but that’s much better than fighting an overcrowded mall during the holidays. Avoiding the rush hours will also give you a chance to get the best deals. You can’t expect bargains when crowds of people are fighting over them!
Avoid Stressful Situations
Last-minute shopping is already stressful enough on its own, so why add more stress? Avoid going to stores at all costs if they have a strict return policy or do not allow you to take items back without a receipt. If the store is crowded, chances are you’ll get frustrated and maybe even angry if something goes wrong. It’s better to steer clear of these stores and find a more forgiving one.
Avoid Big Retailers
The bigger department stores are usually crowded and overpriced because of their commercialized brands. Smaller gift shops or boutiques will have more unique items, and you’re less likely to run into someone you know. Also, most local shops have return policies, so it’s not a problem if you need to change or return an item. You can also find amazing deals at your local thrift store or flea market.
In the End
Relax and have fun! The holidays are a fantastic time to spend with family and friends, not stress out about finding the perfect gift. If nothing works, you can always shift to gift cards or cash. With the tips above, you’ll be able to finish your holiday shopping with plenty of time to spare.