Enjoy Hassle-Free Holiday Shopping

Answer 1

For many of us, the least pleasant part of the holidays is the shopping. Crowded parking lots, long checkout lines, sold-out items, and spending more than planned isn't anyone's idea of a good time. Whether online or offline shopping, here are six strategies to help make your holiday shopping hassle-free or at least a bit less stressful.

Build a List

This most basic of strategies is often discussed, but not always followed. If your holiday shopping budget is small, this strategy will save you much in the way of money and headaches. Make a list of what to buy and for whom, then jot down similarly priced alternatives to each gift, in case stores run out.

Budget Money and Time

If you're trying to save money during your holiday shopping, setting a budget (and sticking to it) is the most critical part of reducing the stress of holiday shopping. But, don't forget to pad it just a little, in case you can't find exactly what you wanted to get for Uncle Joeor at the bargain price you saw at one store.

Just as important as a monetary budget is a time budget. Schedule your shopping, rather than trying to do it in between everything else. Shopping with a time limit can help you stay focused and avoid the temptation of ogling at (and buying) things not on your list.

Regifting is "in." If you have received new, unopened gifts that you don't use, save yourself time and money by wrapping them up and presenting them to loved ones who would appreciate them.

Compare Prices

Several websites offer price comparisons for all manner of items. Some items will show a better deal if purchased only online, but if the price is attractive, check the cost of shipping to make sure that you're really saving the money you think. Some stores allow you to buy online and pick up in the store saving you the cost of shipping and trying to grab that hot gift before the shelves are cleared.

Plan Your Attack

This takes some discipline on your part, but it's worth it. With list in hand, plot out your shopping trip, store by store and even aisle by aisle. Shopping early in the day is great, but if you can't do that, try shopping late at night as many retailers will have late hours for holiday shoppers. Sometimes, night owls can take advantage of unadvertised specials.

Shop Alone

Shopping with friends can be fun, but your holiday shopping is likely to be completed much faster when you go it alone. When shopping solo, you can adhere to your scheduled time and stick to your budget without feeling guilty or frustrated while waiting for your companion to finish his or her shopping.

Gift Receipts

Returns are a part of holiday gift giving. If you have any thought that a recipient may choose to return the item you give, include a gift-receipt. Most retailers will provide gift receipts for each item if you ask. Alternatively, gift cards are almost always appreciated and never returned.

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