The most important tip for a smart holiday shopper would be to plan ahead! If you fail to prepare, you should be prepared to fail! Start your preparations by making a list of everyone you need to shop for. Don't forget to include those little co-worker and teacher gifts! Included on this list should be your budget for each person.
Start shopping early! An easy way to make unnecessary purchases and end up in a panic is to wait until the last minute! Optimally you should be picking up things as they go on sale or clearance throughout the year. At the very least start shopping at the beginning of holiday season. This tip alone will lead to a much less stressful holiday season. When you have every name on that list crossed off you can actually enjoy the holidays as they are meant to be enjoyed!
The internet is your friend! Utilize the web to compare prices before you do your shopping, this will be especially helpful on big ticket items. Additionally, signing up to receive emails from your favorite retailers will get you coupon codes, free shipping notices, and you will know about all their upcoming promotions before the general public.
Get organized! Whether you shop online or in store, compile all of your receipts in a folder or envelope. This will be an invaluable in the event you need to exchange or return something. It will also allow you to keep a better record of where your money is being spent, which will help you stick to your budget!
When in doubt, buy a gift card! If you are having a hard time finding a gift for someone on your list, just buy them a gift card for the denomination you have set out for them in your budget. This is a win-win for everyone. Your recipient will get a gift they will definitely like, and you can stick to your budget.
There are many ways to be a smart holiday shopper. By combining the above tips or even just using a handful of them you are guaranteed to have a smoother holiday shopping experience. So sit back, grab a pen and make that holiday shopping list. It is never too early to begin!
Start shopping early! An easy way to make unnecessary purchases and end up in a panic is to wait until the last minute! Optimally you should be picking up things as they go on sale or clearance throughout the year. At the very least start shopping at the beginning of holiday season. This tip alone will lead to a much less stressful holiday season. When you have every name on that list crossed off you can actually enjoy the holidays as they are meant to be enjoyed!
The internet is your friend! Utilize the web to compare prices before you do your shopping, this will be especially helpful on big ticket items. Additionally, signing up to receive emails from your favorite retailers will get you coupon codes, free shipping notices, and you will know about all their upcoming promotions before the general public.
Get organized! Whether you shop online or in store, compile all of your receipts in a folder or envelope. This will be an invaluable in the event you need to exchange or return something. It will also allow you to keep a better record of where your money is being spent, which will help you stick to your budget!
When in doubt, buy a gift card! If you are having a hard time finding a gift for someone on your list, just buy them a gift card for the denomination you have set out for them in your budget. This is a win-win for everyone. Your recipient will get a gift they will definitely like, and you can stick to your budget.
There are many ways to be a smart holiday shopper. By combining the above tips or even just using a handful of them you are guaranteed to have a smoother holiday shopping experience. So sit back, grab a pen and make that holiday shopping list. It is never too early to begin!
Megan Perry is a writer who enjoys sharing her knowledge and advice with readers. For more on shopping tips, Money Hacker offers readers shopping tips for car hunting
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