As we draw closer to Christmas, the thought of present shopping can be both exciting and daunting. Without a solid approach, what should be a delightful experience can quickly turn into a source of stress.
To transform your Christmas shopping from a chaotic rush to a pleasant endeavour, we’ve compiled a list of several strategies you can employ.
So, forgo getting lost amidst the holiday hustle and bustle. Get ready to streamline your shopping process and make thoughtful and budget-friendly choices, allowing you to enjoy the festive spirit without the stress. And, no, we won’t just tell you to ‘start early’.
Christmas shopping 101: Christmas shopping tips
Set a budget
Before you start shopping, it’s crucial to set a budget. Decide how much you want to spend on Christmas gifts and stick to it. This will help you avoid overspending and ensure that you don’t end up with a hangover of the financial kind after the holidays.
Make a list (and check it twice)
Create a list of all the people you need to buy gifts for and brainstorm gift ideas for each person. This will save you time and help you stay organised. You can also keep track of what you’ve already bought and what you still need to find.
For those who are still stuck on just what to buy for their loved ones this Christmas, we’ve curated a gift guide for just about every occasion. Pick from the list below to gain some inspo:
- $30 or less gifts
- Stocking stuffer ideas
- Gift ideas for men
- Fragrance gift sets
- Christmas candles
- Gift guide for teens
- Gift guide for the woman who has everything
- Gift ideas for your mum
Shop online
Online shopping can be a lifesaver during the busy holiday season. You can shop from the comfort of your home, compare prices easily, and have gifts delivered directly to your door or to the recipient. Don’t forget to look for online discounts and promo codes. Just make sure to get in before postal cut-offs!
In-store shopping tips
Left things too late? Never fear! In-store shopping also holds its benefits.
Several stores, like David Jones, offer professional gift-wrapping services in-store, helping to take a little bit of the pain out of the Christmas rush. For other personlised gift services and complimentary gift wrapping look out for brands like L’Occitane and The Body Shop.
Look for experiences
Sometimes the best gift isn’t a physical item, but an experience. Gifting an experience, like a facial, lash appointment or manicure, can create lasting memories.
Wrap gifts creatively
The presentation of your gift can be just as important as the gift itself. Get creative with your gift wrapping. Use recyclable paper, fabric, or even newspaper. Add a personal touch with ribbons, twine, or a hand-written note.
Keep receipts
Always keep your receipts in case something needs to be returned or exchanged. This will make the process much easier for both you and the gift recipient.
Main image credit: Getty
Do you have any Christmas shopping tips you’d like to add to the list?
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Don’t leave it until the last minute, and get it in the post before the recommended dates because Australia Post is unreliable.
Most of it is done already, mainly online
Great tips. I also buy gift bags and christmas wrapping paper during boxing day sales to prepare for next year.
And get one small “emergency” gift.
Christmas is great but I think BH should show more diversity. There are many members here who do not celebrate Christmas.
Yes thank you for saying that
BH does show diversity with lots of special days for other beliefs but sometimes you just have to embrace the majority in the country
That isn’t Christmas… according to the Census.
I agree JuJu47
One of my friends buys all of her next years Christmas gifts during the boxing day sales
Trouble with that is your ideas may change or you may find that the person you are buying for already has what you have bought.
Balck friday was great for xmas shopping.
I didn’t find many deals actually
Some great tips to follow
Oh too late. I bought everything already.
I have a present account which I feed every fortnight and follow most of those on the list
That’s a very good idea.
I was going to say definitely shop online! I find that you get better deals online than in store
I think I’m organised, leave it too late and what you want to buy is out of stock!
Almost all done. I just have to decide what we’re having for Christmas lunch this year.
Too late to post now really, gift cards online the best bet
To beat the rush is buying throughout the year in sales to avoid last minute gift buying
I love instore shopping experience.
I usually shop extensively online & use click & collect – no waiting for deliveries & no missing out on stocked items on sale.
This Christmas was a drama when my internet went down!