6 Ways To Save Time & Money This Holiday Shopping Season
Tis the season for holiday shopping, folks! And I’ve got the secrets to doing it stress free!
I recently appeared on the City Of Boston Credit Union’s show “The Money Program” as an expert shopper. (And I love me a television appearance!) The hostess and I dished out tips for saving time and money this holiday season. I also brought along some of this year’s hottest gift ideas and where to get them even cheaper. After sharing all of these goodies on air I decided I should also hit my blog to share them with all of you!
Money Saving Shopping Tips
- Start now!
Waiting until the last minute puts you in a time crunch of having to pay whatever price they’re asking at whatever store you could make it too, rather than having time to organize your list, compare prices and hit the stores that best suit your needs. It also allows you to take advantage of internet savings, where if you wait too long items won’t be shipped in time.
2. Make a list
Before you start shopping make a list of everyone you have to buy for and the ideas you have for their gifts. Importantly, go a step further to set a total budget for shopping, allocate a certain amount for each gift and make note of when you will see each person. Why does the date matter? To prioritize when to spend- ie office grab gifts will likely be needed at a holiday party pre Christmas while Grandma’s gift won’t be needed until closer to Christmas Day.
3. Do your research
The internet makes it too easy to not compare prices- both at home and in store. Check multiple sites to see where you can get the best deals, including apps like Retail Me Not that you can check while you are in store. Also be aware that a store’s pricing may be different than the company’s website. If you run into lower prices on the website, ask the associate or a sales manager to adjust the price. Also be sure to research product reviews, especially with electronics. Reviews are also helpful when ordering items people wear because it helps better determine size and fit if you may be unsure.
4. Hit the malls mid-morning mid-week
Spend less time (and aggrevation) by hitting stores on off- hours, like mid-morning on weekdays. This alleviates issues finding parking, waiting in long lines and waiting for a busy associate’s assistance.
5. Wear comfy shoes and bring snacks and water
It may not be the zombie apocolypse, but it sure is the survival of the fittest! You could be shopping for hours. Uncomfortable shoes will only add to stress, and perhaps have you call it quits before you’re done getting everything you need. And being prepared with something to nibble on keeps you away from spending unnecessary time and money at the food court.
6. Hire a personal shopper to do all the leg work for you
(Let’s face it, you had to see this one coming!) But imagine the time and stress you would save by having a professional draft gift ideas for you, price compare and research reviews and navigate the mall stores and parking lots to pick up the gifts… and deliver them gift wrapped! Happy Holidays to you!
Follow the tips above to save you time and stress this shopping season. And go a step further to truly treat yourself by having me do your list crafting and shopping for you. With the time constraints of the holidays I can only accept a few clients, so book your services today by emailing me! TrustinTricia@gmail.com
What part of holiday shopping are you dreading most? Did any of these tips help?
Check out my 2016 Gift Guide for this season’s hottest gifts