How to Manage Your Holiday Shopping Season
It seems like the holiday season sneaks up on us every year. By the time you’re reading this blog post, it is more than likely you’ve started shopping for the perfect Christmas gifts.
The early bird gets the worm. In the case of holiday shopping, this is most definitely the case.
The ongoing COVID-19 pandemic has led to national shortages of various materials and products that consumers want and need to make the most out of the holiday season. Experts across the board are recommending consumers get a running start on all purchases related to the holiday season.
So, you may be wondering, how do I safely and efficiently shop for my loved ones this holiday season? That is the question this blog aims to answer. Keep reading and learn how to best manage the holiday shopping season.
Online Shopping
The trend of online shopping that took the nation by storm last holiday season will be another dominating trend this year. To best protect your personal information while shopping online, try installing anti-virus software and only partake in transactions on secure websites. Securing your devices is going to be critical to a jolly and theft-free shopping season.
Compare Product Pricing & Look for Coupons
Price comparison tools and coupons are going to be your best friends this holiday shopping season. Whether you plan on braving the malls or prefer to shop from the comforts of your own home, there are various product pricing and coupon code apps and resources. With these tools and a well-defined budget, you’ll be financially prepared for a season that has the reputation of being stressful.
Make a List of Who You’re Giving Gifts to
Budget worksheets and lists are always a great accountability and tracking tool. Their helpfulness is all but doubled during the holiday season. Grab a piece of paper and write down the gift recipient's name, how much you would like to spend on their gift, and what you have purchased as their gift. There are tons of printable and excel template worksheets to track these items and costs as well. Creating your gift list will have you feeling like Old Saint Nicholas this holiday season.
Limit Impulse Purchases
We are all guilty of impulse purchases. Especially in the season of gift-giving. Whether it's for someone who seems impossible to buy for or for someone you can't seem to stop buying for because everything you see reminds you of them. Even if it looks like a small purchase, those trinkets can add up to a hefty price tag in the end. One of the best ways to manage impulse purchases is to be intentional in your gift-giving. Allot each person on your list a specific amount and make the gifts purchased fit into this set limit.
With these tips in mind and the holiday spirit on your side, we wish you a happy and successful shopping season. You got this!
Sources:
https://www.consumerfinance.gov/about-us/blog/plan-your-spending-to-avoid-holiday-debt/
https://www.consumer.ftc.gov/blog/2020/11/holiday-shopping-season-2020
https://www.nerdwallet.com/article/finance/free-budget-spreadsheets-templates
