Beat the holiday rush this year by planning ahead to ease stress and maximize savings. Discover practical strategies for finding deals on all the right gifts and avoiding last-minute costs.

The holidays have a way of sneaking up on you. One minute it’s back-to-school season, and the next it’s December and you realize in a panic that you haven’t done any gift shopping yet. This year, getting a head start will not only save you stress but also help you cut costs. Here are some practical tips for a smoother shopping experience.

Keep an Ongoing Gift List

One of the easiest ways to overspend during the holiday season is by buying last-minute gifts. To prevent panic purchases, start a running list of gift ideas for each person now, either on your phone or in a physical notebook if you prefer. This way, you can add ideas when inspiration strikes and then shop with purpose rather than picking something random and marked up when pressed for time.

Avoid Rush Shipping Fees

Along the same vein, one of the biggest pitfalls of late shopping is paying extra for expedited shipping to ensure your items arrive on time. By starting early, you’ll have plenty of time to choose the cheapest delivery option or even to score free shipping.

Don’t Let Early Sales Slip By

Retailers are starting holiday promotions earlier than ever, so keep these “pre-holiday” deals on your radar. By paying attention to early discounts, you can spread out spending and snag big-ticket items for less. This is where keeping a list of gift ideas can come in handy, allowing you to check stores and online retailers that have items you know you want as the holidays approach.

Don’t Overlook Thrift and Secondhand Shops

Early shopping doesn’t just mean big box stores. Thrift shops, consignment stores, and online resale platforms can be goldmines for unique, budget-friendly gifts. Because you’re starting early, you have time to browse and find hidden gems, rather than scrambling in December when the selection may be picked over.

Consider DIY or Handmade Gifts

When you start early, you also give yourself time to make something personal. Handmade candles, photo albums, or baked goods can be just as meaningful as store-bought presents, often at a fraction of the price. DIY gifts do require more time, but that’s why planning ahead pays off.

Buy Small Gifts in Bulk

If you have coworkers, teachers, or neighbors to shop for, consider buying multipacks of items like candles, coffee, or gourmet treats. Breaking them into smaller gift sets saves money while still feeling thoughtful. Shopping early allows you to grab these items before they sell out or prices increase during the peak season.

Wrap It Up Smartly

Wrapping paper, bags, and ribbons can quietly eat into your budget, especially if you shop for them last-minute, so start grabbing supplies early when you see them on sale. Or, consider simple but classy alternatives like wrapping in brown paper and some twine. After all, the wrapping doesn’t stay on for long!

Getting ahead on holiday shopping will give you the time to shop smart. Come December, you’ll be able to enjoy the holiday season with less financial stress and more time to relax.