Christmas shopping tips from a {former} retail employee

Now that Thanksgiving is over, the Christmas season has officially started. Having worked in retail for years, I’ve spent many Decembers at the mall in the hustle and bustle of the Christmas shopping madness. So here are some of my tips for you.

1. Black Friday does not have the best sales. Yes, certain big ticket items have great deals, but the best sales happen the Saturday before Christmas. Another perk: the mall is a lot less crowded that closer to Christmas.

2. Don’t be those people. You don’t have to be at the store at 6 am when it opens. Read your coupon (if it’s a $10 off purchase coupon, that means before tax). Don’t push and shove or be obnoxious.

3. Plan ahead. If you want something specific, you should buy it early. If you’re reading this now and you haven’t bought those Frozen toys for your daughters, nieces, 26-year old best friend who saw it in the theater with you, it might be too late. Same goes for ordering online. Personalized gifts take time, and a lot of shops have deadlines to mail stuff out before the big day.

4. Make a list, check it twice, and go shopping once. Having worked at the mall, I have mastered the one-day Christmas shopping trip. Yes, I can buy thoughtful and decent presents for my friends and family in one day. Buying gifts can be done quickly and efficiently if you plan. It’s also a more pleasant experience than going to the mall 15 different times.

5. Budget, budget, budget. Christmas is every December 25th. I know it sneaks up every year, but putting aside money each month will help prevent those large shopping bills and credit card statements at the end of the year.

 

What tips would y’all add to this list?